Kokoretsi
A quintessential Greek Easter delicacy, Kokoretsi features lamb offal (heart, liver, kidneys, sweetbreads) meticulously wrapped in lamb intestines and slow-spit roasted over charcoal until golden and crispy. This dish is a cherished tradition, often prepared for Easter Sunday feasts.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 kg Lamb offal (heart, liver, kidneys, sweetbreads)(Ensure all offal is fresh and of high quality. Clean thoroughly.)
- 2 meters Lamb intestines(These will be used to encase the offal. They need to be very thoroughly cleaned and turned inside out.)
- 2 tbsp Dried oregano(Good quality Greek oregano is preferred.)
- 60 ml Fresh lemon juice(For basting and serving.)
- 60 ml Extra virgin olive oil(For basting.)
- to taste Salt(Coarse sea salt is ideal.)
- to taste Black pepper(Freshly ground.)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the offal: Thoroughly clean all lamb offal under cold running water. Trim away any excess fat or membranes. Dice the heart, kidneys, and sweetbreads into bite-sized pieces (about 2-3 cm). The liver can be left in slightly larger pieces as it cooks faster. Pat everything dry.
⏱️ 45 minutes - 2
Prepare the intestines: If not already cleaned, turn the lamb intestines inside out and meticulously clean them under running water, removing any residue. This is a crucial step for hygiene and taste. Set aside.
⏱️ 30 minutes - 3
Season and assemble: In a bowl, toss the prepared offal with dried oregano, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Thread the seasoned offal pieces onto a sturdy metal spit, alternating types of offal and packing them relatively tightly. Leave a small gap at each end.
⏱️ 15 minutes - 4
Wrap the offal: Carefully begin wrapping the intestines around the seasoned offal on the spit. Start from one end and overlap the intestine strips as you go, ensuring a tight and even layer. Continue wrapping until the entire offal mass is completely encased in a thick layer of intestines. Secure the ends of the intestines with kitchen twine if necessary.
⏱️ 15 minutes - 5
Prepare the roasting setup: Set up your charcoal grill or spit-roaster. You want a consistent, medium-heat charcoal fire. The ideal temperature for the coals is when they are glowing red with a light ash coating, around 175°C (350°F).
⏱️ 10 minutes - 6
Spit-roast the Kokoretsi: Mount the prepared spit onto the roaster. Begin rotating the spit slowly and continuously over the coals. The initial cooking should be at a moderate distance from the heat. As the Kokoretsi cooks, you will need to baste it frequently.
⏱️ 3 hours - 7
Basting and temperature control: In a small bowl, mix the olive oil and lemon juice. Every 20-30 minutes, generously baste the rotating Kokoretsi with this mixture. This keeps it moist and helps develop a beautiful crust. Adjust the distance from the coals as needed to maintain an even cooking temperature and prevent burning. The goal is a slow, even roast.
⏱️ Ongoing during cooking - 8
Check for doneness: The Kokoretsi is ready when the outer layer of intestines is deeply golden brown, crispy, and sounds hollow when tapped. The internal temperature should reach at least 74°C (165°F), but the crispy exterior is the primary indicator. You should see rendered fat dripping and hear a satisfying sizzle.
⏱️ N/A - 9
Rest and serve: Once cooked, carefully remove the spit from the heat. Let the Kokoretsi rest for about 10-15 minutes. Slice it into thick portions using a sharp knife. Serve immediately, optionally with extra lemon wedges and crusty bread.
⏱️ 15 minutes
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓The intestines should be crispy on the outside and the offal tender and juicy on the inside.
- ✓This dish is a centerpiece of traditional Greek Easter celebrations.
- ✓Constant basting is key to achieving a moist interior and a crisp exterior.
- ✓Ensure the charcoal provides consistent, moderate heat. Avoid direct flames.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- For a spicier version, add chili flakes or finely chopped jalapeños to the offal mixture.
- Experiment with different offal combinations based on availability and preference.
- Some recipes include rice or herbs within the offal mix.