Moussaka (Algerian Eggplant & Meat Gratin, Keto)
Algerian Eggplant & Minced Meat Gratin (Keto)
Yes, with a tweak: replace potatoes (if traditionally used) with extra layers of eggplant. About 11g net carbs per serving, on the higher side for Algerian food, so watch the portion.
What it is
An Algerian-style gratin featuring layers of tender, pan-fried or baked eggplant and a richly spiced minced meat (beef or lamb) filling, all topped with a creamy, keto-friendly béchamel sauce or a cheese topping. This dish offers a comforting and substantial meal, packed with flavor without the traditional high-carb elements.
Key ingredients
Eggplant, ground beef/lamb, olive oil, onions, garlic, tomato paste/puree, spices (cumin, paprika, cinnamon - sparingly, salt, pepper), béchamel sauce (heavy cream, cream cheese, butter, nutmeg, small amount of xanthan gum) OR grated cheese.
How to make it keto
Crucially, replace potatoes (if traditionally used) with extra layers of eggplant. The béchamel sauce must be prepared with heavy cream and a keto-friendly thickener (e.g., xanthan gum) instead of flour. Ensure no added sugar in the tomato base for the meat layer. Fried eggplant portions are typically generous in restaurants, adding substantial fat.
Say this to the waiter (Arabic)
للمسقعة، من فضلك استخدم باذنجان إضافي بدلاً من البطاطس. البشاميل بكريمة ثقيلة وبدون طحين. ولا سكر مضاف في صلصة الطماطم.
For Moussaka, please use extra eggplant instead of potatoes. Béchamel needs heavy cream, no flour. No added sugar in the tomato base.
Watch out for
Traditional Moussaka often includes potatoes instead of or in addition to eggplant, and béchamel sauce is typically made with flour. Some recipes might use sugar in the tomato sauce.
Macros are estimates for a typical serving and vary by restaurant. Confirm ingredients with staff, especially if you have allergies. Our ingredient lists are generated automatically and describe how a dish is typically made.
More on the Algerian menuAll 180 Algerian dishes ›
