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Kleftiko

Kleftiko

Slow-Cooked Greek Lamb

Prep Time 20 mins
Cook Time 210 mins
Rest Time 15 mins
Total Time 4 hrs 5 mins
Cooking Method:
Cuisine:
Courses: ,
Difficulty: Beginner
Cooking Temp: 400  F
Servings: 4
Calories: 520 kcal
Best Season: Suitable throughout the year, Holidays
Description

Transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean hills with this legendary Greek Kleftiko!

Traditionally cooked in sealed ovens or underground pits, this dish features lamb slow-baked with garlic, citrus, and herbs until irresistibly tender. Our healthy twist uses lean cuts and olive oil, staying true to the heart-friendly Mediterranean diet. Perfect for gatherings or cozy family dinners, this one-pot wonder requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor.

Discover why this ancient recipe has earned 5-star ratings for centuries!

Recommended Occasions: Sunday family dinners, Easter celebrations, Dinner parties, Meal prep (reheats beautifully!).

Ingredients
  • 2 lbs, 900g bone-in lamb shoulder, cut into large chunks
  • 4 medium potatoes (quartered)
  • 2 carrots (thick slices)
  • 1 red onion (wedges)
  • 8 garlic cloves (peeled)
  • 2 lemons (1 juiced, 1 sliced)
  • 3 sprigs fresh rosemary
  • 2 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp sea salt
  • 4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/2 cup dry white wine (or chicken broth)
  • Garnish: Fresh parsley (chopped)
    • Optional Ingredients
  • For depth: Add 1 cinnamon stick or 2 star anise.
  • Spicier kick : Include 1 tsp smoked paprika.
  • Extra veggies: Toss in cherry tomatoes or artichoke hearts.
Instructions
  1. 1
    Marinate lamb:

    In a bowl, mix lamb, lemon juice, olive oil, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Rest 15 mins.

  2. 2
    Layer ingredients:

    In a deep oven-safe dish, layer potatoes, carrots, onion, garlic, and lemon slices. Place marinated lamb on top. Tuck in rosemary and bay leaf.

  3. 3
    Add liquid:

    Pour wine/broth over everything. Seal tightly with foil + lid (crucial for steam!).

  4. 4
    Bake:

    Place in a cold oven. Set to 325°F (160°C). Bake for 3 hours.

  5. 5
    Crisp up:

    Remove lid/foil. Increase heat to 400°F (200°C). Bake uncovered for 20 mins until golden.

  6. 6
    Rest:

    Discard bay leaf. Let stand 15 mins. Garnish with parsley.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 4

Amount Per Serving
Calories 520kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 24g37%
Saturated Fat 6g30%
Cholesterol 125mg42%
Sodium 480mg20%
Potassium 1220mg35%
Total Carbohydrate 32g11%
Dietary Fiber 5g20%
Sugars 4g
Protein 42g84%
Vitamin A 110 mcg
Vitamin C 45 mg
Calcium 80 mg
Iron 4.2 mg
Vitamin D 15 IU

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note
  • Low-carb swap: Replace potatoes with cauliflower or radishes.
  • Wine-free: Use ½ cup low-sodium broth + 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar.
Keywords: Kleftiko
Read it online: https://healthyrecipes.info/recipe/kleftiko/