Melt-in-your-mouth lamb shoulder, slow-roasted to perfection with garlic, lemon, and oregano. A Greek classic that’s easy to make yet rich in flavor—perfect for your next feast!
A special occasion Greek dish with no sophisticated ingredients or complicated cooking techniques. A succulent lamb shoulder, slowly roasted until it falls off the bone.
Kleftiko is a great, naturally balanced meal for diabetics when served with plenty of non-starchy vegetables and mindful portions of potatoes or grains. The high protein and healthy fats help maintain stable blood sugar levels, making it a delicious and diabetes-friendly Mediterranean meal.
Why Kleftiko Works for a Diabetes-Friendly Diet:
✔ High-Quality Protein – Lamb is a rich source of protein, which helps stabilize blood sugar levels by slowing digestion.
✔ Healthy Fats – Lamb contains natural fats, which, when combined with olive oil, help provide steady energy and satiety.
✔ Low in Processed Carbs – The dish itself contains no refined sugars or starches, making it a good choice for those watching their blood sugar.
✔ Rich in Mediterranean Flavors – The herbs, garlic, and lemon add flavor without extra carbs or sugars.
How to Make Kleftiko Even More Diabetes-Friendly:
🔥 Choose Leaner Cuts – While lamb shoulder is flavorful, trimming excess fat or using leaner cuts can help reduce saturated fat intake.
🔥 Portion the Potatoes – Oven-roasted potatoes are fine in moderation, but consider pairing with extra veggies like roasted zucchini or eggplant to balance the carbs.
🔥 Pair with a Fiber-Rich Salad – A classic Greek salad (tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta) adds fiber and healthy fats, slowing carb absorption.
🔥 Serve with Whole Grains – Instead of pita, opt for whole-grain alternatives like bulgur or quinoa for added fiber.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
✅ Incredibly Tender – Slow-cooked until the lamb falls off the bone.
✅ Simple, Rustic Ingredients – No complicated steps, just bold Mediterranean flavors.
✅ Perfect for Special Occasions – Impress your guests with a dish that feels gourmet but is easy to make.
✅ Make-Ahead Friendly – The flavors deepen overnight, making it even better the next day.
Tips for the Perfect Kleftiko
🔥 Use bone-in lamb – It adds more depth of flavor.
🔥 Marinate overnight – The longer it marinates, the richer the taste.
🔥 Seal it well – Wrapping it in parchment and foil keeps the meat juicy and tender.
🔥 Let it rest – After roasting, let the lamb sit for 10 minutes before serving to retain its juices.
A Dish That Brings the Mediterranean to Your Table
There’s a reason Kleftiko has stood the test of time. It’s a dish that brings people together, fills the air with the scent of garlic and herbs, and delivers rich, comforting flavors with every bite. Whether you're hosting a dinner party, planning a special meal, or simply craving an authentic Greek feast, this dish is a must-try.
So, what are you waiting for? Fire up your oven, let the flavors work their magic, and bring the taste of Greece into your home.
RECIPE:
Serves: 6
Prep time: 20 min + 12-24 hours marinate
Cooking time: 5 hours
Ingredients:
1 lamb shoulder, about 2kg
Good quality olive oil
1 teaspoon cinnamon
2 teaspoons dried oregano
1 teaspoon coarse salt
1 ½ heads of garlic, of which half of the head cut in half, the remaining garlic peeled and crushed
A small pinch of chili flakes
3 lemons, 1 cut in half and two in wedges
4-5 large waxy potatoes, peeled and cut into wedges
2 large red onions, cut into wedges
2 bay leaves
200ml white wine or water
Preparation:
After 12-24 hours of marinating, preheat oven to: 160°C/320°F/140°Fan
Marinate the Lamb:
In a bowl, mix the garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, oregano, paprika, salt, pepper, cumin, and chili flakes into a thick marinade. Rub it generously all over the lamb, ensuring it’s well-coated. refrigerate and let it marinate for at least 10 hours (overnight for best flavor).
Prepare for Roasting:
Preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F). Place the lamb and the onion wedges in a deep roasting dish and pour the white wine or water around it. Cover tightly with parchment paper and aluminum foil to trap the moisture and keep the lamb juicy.
Slow-Roast to Perfection:
Roast for 4-5 hours until the lamb is fork-tender and easily pulls apart. Remove the foil in the last 30 minutes, letting the top brown beautifully.
Roast the Potatoes:
While the lamb is cooking, toss the potatoes with olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a baking tray and roast at 200°C (400°F) for 40-45 minutes until golden and crispy.
Serve & Enjoy:
Shred the lamb, serve with crispy potatoes, fresh salad, and warm pita bread. No fancy sauces needed—just pure Mediterranean goodness!
👩🍳 Chef’s Note: if you have time, I recommend marinating the meat for 24 hours as it will develop a beautiful intense depth of flavor.
Serving suggestions: fresh pita bread and a Greek salad