Kleftiko (Greek Slow-Roasted Lamb
Kleftiko, meaning 'stolen', is a traditional Greek dish where lamb shoulder is slow-cooked in parchment paper, traditionally in a pit oven by bandits. This method ensures the lamb becomes incredibly tender and infused with flavor, falling off the bone. The dramatic unsealing at the table is part of the experience.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1.5 kg Lamb shoulder(Bone-in or boneless, trimmed of excess fat if desired.)
- 1 kg Potatoes(Waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or new potatoes, cut into large wedges.)
- 8-10 cloves Garlic(Peeled and thinly sliced.)
- 60 ml Lemon juice(Freshly squeezed.)
- 2 tbsp Dried oregano(Good quality Greek oregano if possible.)
- 60 ml Extra virgin olive oil
- 100 g Feta cheese(Crumbled. Optional, but adds a salty tang.)
- 1 large sheet Parchment paper(Large enough to fully encase the lamb and potatoes.)
- 1 large sheet Aluminum foil(To be used in conjunction with parchment paper for a good seal.)
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F). Prepare the lamb: If using bone-in lamb shoulder, make deep incisions all over the meat using a sharp knife. Insert the thinly sliced garlic cloves into these incisions. If using boneless, you can still make incisions or simply rub the garlic slivers all over the surface.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 2
Prepare the potatoes: Wash and cut the potatoes into large, rustic wedges. In a large bowl, toss the potato wedges with half of the olive oil, half of the oregano, salt, and pepper until evenly coated. Set aside.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 3
Marinate the lamb: Place the lamb shoulder in a large bowl. Drizzle with the remaining olive oil and lemon juice. Sprinkle generously with the remaining oregano, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Rub the marinade all over the lamb, ensuring it's well-coated.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 4
Assemble for baking: Lay out the large sheet of parchment paper on a clean surface. Place the marinated lamb shoulder in the center. Arrange the seasoned potato wedges around the lamb. If using feta, crumble it over the potatoes and lamb.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 5
Seal the parcel: Bring the edges of the parchment paper up and over the lamb and potatoes, scrunching and folding to create a very tight, sealed parcel. Ensure there are no gaps where steam can escape. For extra security and to ensure an airtight seal, wrap the parchment parcel tightly with the large sheet of aluminum foil.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 6
Slow-roast: Place the sealed parcel directly onto an oven rack or into a roasting pan. Bake in the preheated oven at 160°C (320°F) for 3.5 to 4 hours. The lamb should be exceptionally tender and easily pull away from the bone. The potatoes should be soft and infused with the lamb juices.
⏱️ 3.5 - 4 hours - 7
Serve: Carefully remove the parcel from the oven. Bring the entire parcel to the table for a dramatic reveal. Open the parchment and foil to release the fragrant steam. Serve the tender lamb directly from the parcel, alongside the roasted potatoes.
⏱️ 5 minutes
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓The key to Kleftiko is the airtight seal. Ensure your parchment and foil parcel is completely closed to trap all the moisture and flavors.
- ✓This dish is named after the klephts, or bandits, who supposedly cooked stolen sheep or goat in hidden pits to avoid detection. The slow-cooking method made the meat incredibly tender.
- ✓The unsealing of the parcel at the table is a significant part of the Kleftiko experience, releasing aromatic steam and presenting a 'treasure' of tender meat and vegetables.
- ✓For an even richer flavor, you can add a few sprigs of fresh rosemary or thyme inside the parcel with the lamb.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add cherry tomatoes or chopped bell peppers to the parcel along with the potatoes for extra color and flavor.
- Substitute Kefalotyri cheese for feta for a sharper, saltier taste.
- Include a splash of white wine or a tablespoon of tomato paste in the marinade for added depth.