Kleftiko: Greek Slow-Cooked Lamb
Description
This delightful Greek Kleftiko recipe hails from the Mediterranean region and features marinated lamb steaks or chops that are slow-cooked to perfection, resulting in an unbeatable tender flavor. The dish is traditionally sealed like a pie, with a flour dough lid that traps in all the savory juices, although using a tightly fitting foil cover is a practical alternative. The preparation time includes marinating the lamb, ensuring every bite is infused with deliciousness.
Nutritional Information
| Nutritional Component | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 355 |
| Fat Content | 7.5 g |
| Saturated Fat Content | 1.1 g |
| Cholesterol Content | 0 mg |
| Sodium Content | 588.1 mg |
| Carbohydrate Content | 57.5 g |
| Fiber Content | 3.6 g |
| Sugar Content | 4.1 g |
| Protein Content | 7.5 g |
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Lemon | 1 |
| Fresh oregano | 1 |
| Salt | 1 tsp |
| Ground black pepper | ½ tsp |
| Lamb leg steaks | 4 pieces |
| Lamb chops | 2 pieces |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp |
| Onions (sliced) | 2 |
| Bay leaves | 2 |
| Dry white wine | ⅔ cup |
| Plain flour | 2 cups |
Instructions
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In a mixing bowl, combine the freshly squeezed lemon juice, chopped fresh oregano, salt, and ground black pepper. Brush this marinade generously over both sides of the lamb pieces, ensuring they are well coated.
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Allow the lamb to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or, for best results, overnight, letting the flavors meld beautifully.
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Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C), setting the stage for slow and gentle cooking.
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Once marinated, drain the lamb from the marinade, reserving it for later use, and pat it dry with paper towels to enhance browning.
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In a large frying pan, heat the olive oil over high heat. Add the lamb and sear it until nicely browned on both sides, creating a flavorful crust.
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Transfer the browned lamb into a shallow pie dish. Surround it with the sliced onions and bay leaves, then pour the reserved marinade and dry white wine over the top, adding moisture and depth to the dish.
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In a separate bowl, mix the plain flour with enough water to create a firm dough, which will form the pie crust.
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Moisten the rim of the pie dish lightly with water to help the dough adhere.
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On a floured surface, roll out the dough to an appropriate size and cover the dish, sealing it tightly to trap in the aromatic steam.
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Place the covered dish in the preheated oven and bake for 2 hours, allowing the lamb to become incredibly tender.
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Once cooked, carefully break away the crust and serve the succulent lamb hot, perfect for sharing with family and friends.
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For a delightful accompaniment, consider serving with roasted potatoes or a fresh Greek salad to complete this wonderful Mediterranean experience.
Enjoy the ultimate comfort of this traditional Kleftiko, bringing a taste of Greece right into your kitchen!
