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Slow-cooked Greek lamb kleftiko with lemon potatoes and herbs.

Greek Lamb Kleftiko

Slow-baked Greek lamb shoulder with lemon, garlic, oregano, tomatoes, and tender potatoes.
Servings 6 servings
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours 30 minutes
Marinating Time 2 hours
Total Time 4 hours

Equipment

  • Large roasting pan
  • Parchment paper
  • Mixing bowl
  • Chef's knife

Ingredients

Lamb and Marinade

  • 4 lb bone-in lamb shoulder cut into large pieces
  • 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 8 cloves garlic lightly crushed
  • 2 tbsp dried Greek oregano
  • 2 tsp fine salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper

Vegetables

  • 2 lb Yukon Gold potatoes cut into large wedges
  • 2 medium red onions cut into wedges
  • 3 medium Roma tomatoes quartered
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken stock
  • 1 medium lemon cut into wedges

Instructions

Marinate:

  • Combine lamb, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.

Seal the Parcel:

  • Heat the oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a roasting pan with two large overlapping sheets of parchment.
  • Arrange potatoes, onions, and tomatoes in the center. Add the lamb and marinade, pour in the stock, and tuck in the lemon wedges.
  • Fold and crimp the parchment into a tightly sealed parcel, adding a third sheet over the top if needed.

Slow-Bake:

  • Bake for 3 hours, until the lamb is very tender.
  • Carefully open the parcel, raise the oven to 425°F (220°C), and roast uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes to lightly brown the lamb and potatoes.

Notes

  • Open the parchment away from your face because the trapped steam is very hot.
  • If using boneless lamb shoulder, begin checking for tenderness after 2 1/2 hours.

Nutrition

Calories: 680kcalCarbohydrates: 38gProtein: 49gFat: 36gSaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 155mgSodium: 760mgFiber: 6gSugar: 7g
Calories: 680kcal
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Greek
Keyword: Greek Lamb, Kleftiko, Slow-Roasted Lamb