Cypriot Kleftiko – Slow-Baked Lamb with Lemon and Herbs

A traditional Cypriot and Greek dish, Kleftiko features lamb marinated with lemon, garlic, and oregano, then slow-cooked until fall-apart tender.

Ingredients (Serves 4):

* 1.5kg lamb shoulder or leg, cut into large pieces
* 3 garlic cloves, minced
* Juice of 2 lemons
* 2 tsp dried oregano
* 1 onion, sliced
* 2 potatoes, quartered
* Olive oil, salt, black pepper

Instructions:

1. Marinate lamb with lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper for a few hours (or overnight).
2. Place lamb, onion, and potatoes in a baking dish. Drizzle with olive oil.
3. Cover tightly with foil. Bake at 160°C (320°F) for 3–4 hours until meat is very tender.
4. Uncover and roast at 220°C (430°F) for 20 minutes to brown.
5. Serve with flatbread or salad.

Cypriot Tip:
Traditionally cooked sealed in parchment for extra tenderness and aroma.