Kleftiko

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Kleftiko: Greek Slow-Cooked Lamb

Introduction

Kleftiko is a traditional Greek dish that involves slow-cooking lamb in a parchment paper packet with vegetables and herbs. This method of cooking ensures the lamb is incredibly tender and infused with the flavors of the herbs and vegetables.

 

Kleftiko Ingredients

  • 3 lbs lamb shoulder or leg, cut into large pieces
  • 4 large potatoes, peeled and quartered
  • 3 carrots, cut into large pieces
  • 1 large onion, sliced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons dried oregano
  • 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Parchment paper or aluminum foil

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade:
    • In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, fresh rosemary, ground cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Add the lamb pieces and mix well to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.
  2. Assemble the Kleftiko:
    • Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).
    • Cut large sheets of parchment paper or aluminum foil. Place a few pieces of marinated lamb in the center of each sheet. Add some potatoes, carrots, and onion slices to each packet.
    • Fold the parchment paper or foil over the lamb and vegetables to create a sealed packet. Place the packets in a large baking dish or on a baking sheet.
  3. Cook the Kleftiko:
    • Bake in the preheated oven for 3-4 hours, until the lamb is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
  4. Serve:
    • Carefully open the packets and transfer the contents to a serving dish. Serve the Kleftiko hot, garnished with additional fresh herbs if desired.

Serving Suggestions

Kleftiko is best enjoyed hot, straight from the oven. It pairs wonderfully with a simple Greek salad, crusty bread, and a side of tzatziki. This dish makes for a hearty and satisfying main course, perfect for family dinners or special occasions.

Conclusion

Kleftiko is a delicious and flavorful Greek dish that’s perfect for sharing. The slow-cooked lamb and vegetables create a rich and tender meal that’s sure to impress. Enjoy this classic Greek recipe with your family and friends!

 

Kleftiko
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Kleftiko

Recipe by Cook2ShareACourse: Greek FoodDifficulty: Difficult

Kleftiko is a traditional Greek dish that involves slow-cooking lamb in a parchment paper packet with vegetables and herbs

Ingredients

  • 3 lbs lamb shoulder or leg, cut into large pieces

  • 4 large potatoes, peeled and quartered

  • 3 carrots, cut into large pieces

  • 1 large onion, sliced

  • 4 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1/4 cup olive oil

  • 1/4 cup lemon juice

  • 2 tablespoons dried oregano

  • 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped

  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • Parchment paper or aluminum foil

Directions

  • Prepare the Marinade:
  • In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, fresh rosemary, ground cinnamon, salt, and pepper.
  • Add the lamb pieces and mix well to coat.
  • Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.
  • Assemble the Kleftiko:
  • Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).
  • Cut large sheets of parchment paper or aluminum foil.
  • Place a few pieces of marinated lamb in the center of each sheet.
  • Add some potatoes, carrots, and onion slices to each packet.
  • Fold the parchment paper or foil over the lamb and vegetables to create a sealed packet. Place the packets in a large baking dish or on a baking sheet.
  • Cook the Kleftiko:
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 3-4 hours, until the lamb is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
  • Serve:
  • Carefully open the packets and transfer the contents to a serving dish.
  • Serve the Kleftiko hot, garnished with additional fresh herbs if desired.