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Greece · Dinner

Kleftiko

Kleftiko is a traditional Greek dish that originates from the practice of bandits, known as 'kleftes', who would slow-cook lamb in underground ovens to avoid detection. This cooking method imparts a unique flavor and tenderness to the meat, making it a beloved dish in Greek and Cypriot cuisine, traditionally served at gatherings and celebrations.

TraditionalSpecialLamb
Prep30 min
Cook120 min
Servings4
DifficultyMedium
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Published September 26, 2026 by MedTable AI · JJDigit

About this recipe

Kleftiko is a traditional Greek dish that originates from the practice of bandits, known as 'kleftes', who would slow-cook lamb in underground ovens to avoid detection. This cooking method imparts a unique flavor and tenderness to the meat, making it a beloved dish in Greek and Cypriot cuisine, traditionally served at gatherings and celebrations.

Ingredients

  • 1.5 kg lamb shoulder - cut into large chunks
  • 4 cloves garlic - minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary - chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh oregano - chopped
  • 1 lemon juiced - for marinade
  • 3 medium potatoes - cut into wedges
  • 2 medium onions - sliced
  • 100 ml olive oil - for cooking
  • salt - to taste
  • pepper - to taste

Step-by-step instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine the lamb, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, oregano, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly and let it marinate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight in the refrigerator.
  2. Preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F). In a large baking dish, layer the sliced onions and potato wedges. Place the marinated lamb on top, covering it with aluminum foil. Bake for approximately 2 hours, or until the lamb is tender and falls off the bone.

Chef's Tip

For an authentic touch, serve Kleftiko with warm pita bread and Greek yogurt for dipping.

Serving suggestion

Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs, alongside a Greek salad and a glass of full-bodied red wine.

Nutrition per serving (estimated)

Calories650 kcal
Protein40 g
Carbohydrates45 g
Fat35 g
Fiber5 g
Sodium200 mg

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