Kleftiko

Kleftiko is a traditional Greek dish that features tender lamb shanks slow-cooked with onions, garlic, tomatoes, and fragrant herbs. This recipe brings out the rich flavors of the lamb through a simple yet flavorful cooking method. The lamb shanks are first browned to develop a deep color and then braised in a combination of white wine, tomatoes, and aromatic herbs. As the lamb simmers, it becomes tender and succulent, infused with the delicious flavors of the sauce. Once cooked, the lamb shanks are served with a velvety sauce made by blending and straining the tomato and onion mixture. This hearty and satisfying dish is perfect for a special dinner or when you’re craving Greek flavors. Prepare this Kleftiko recipe and savor the melt-in-your-mouth lamb shanks paired with the savory sauce.

INGREDIENTS:

• 4 lamb shanks
• 5 tablespoons olive oil
• 450g/1lb onions, thinly sliced
• 4 garlic cloves, crushed and chopped
• 300ml/10fl oz dry white wine
• 450g/1lb canned chopped plum tomatoes
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

PREPARATIONS:

1. Rub the lamb shanks with salt and pepper.
2. In a frying pan, heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Brown the lamb shanks on all sides, then transfer them to a casserole dish with a tight-fitting lid.
3. In the same frying pan, add the remaining olive oil and reduce the heat to low. Sweat the thinly sliced onions until soft and translucent. Add the crushed and chopped garlic and sauté for 2 minutes. Transfer the onion and garlic mixture to the casserole dish, distributing it around the lamb shanks.
4. Over high heat, deglaze the frying pan with the dry white wine, stirring and scraping up any browned bits with a wooden spoon. Pour the wine mixture over the lamb shanks in the casserole dish.
5. Add the canned chopped plum tomatoes with their liquid, bay leaf, and dried oregano to the casserole dish.
6. Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover the casserole dish with the lid and reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for about 1½ hours, or until the lamb shanks are tender. Check the meat for doneness and continue cooking if needed.
7. Once the lamb shanks are cooked, remove them from the casserole dish and keep them warm on serving plates. Discard the bay leaf from the sauce. Transfer the tomato and onion mixture to a blender or food processor and blend briefly. Pass the sauce through a sieve to achieve a smooth consistency.
8. Spoon the sauce around the lamb shanks and serve immediately.

YIELD: Serves 4

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:

• Use a casserole dish with a tight-fitting lid to ensure the lamb shanks cook evenly and retain moisture.
• Adjust the cooking time as needed based on the size and tenderness of the lamb shanks. They should be tender and easily pull away from the bone.
• For a thicker sauce, simmer the strained tomato and onion mixture in a separate saucepan until it reaches the desired consistency before serving.

TIPS:

• Serve Kleftiko with traditional Greek side dishes such as roasted potatoes, tzatziki, or a Greek salad for a complete and authentic meal.
• Garnish the dish with a sprinkle of fresh oregano or chopped parsley for added freshness and presentation.
• Leftover Kleftiko can be refrigerated and enjoyed the next day. Reheat gently to maintain the tenderness of the lamb shanks.

In conclusion, Kleftiko is a delicious Greek dish that showcases the flavors of tender lamb shanks braised with onions, garlic, tomatoes, and aromatic herbs. The slow cooking process allows the lamb to become exceptionally tender and infuses it with the rich flavors of the sauce. This recipe is a perfect choice for a special dinner or when you’re in the mood for Greek cuisine.

To prepare Kleftiko, start by browning the lamb shanks in a frying pan. Then, transfer them to a casserole dish along with sautéed onions and garlic. Deglaze the pan with dry white wine and add the canned chopped plum tomatoes, bay leaf, and dried oregano. Bring the mixture to a boil and simmer it with the lid on until the lamb shanks become tender.

Once the lamb shanks are cooked, remove them from the casserole dish and keep them warm. Blend the tomato and onion mixture in a blender or food processor, and strain it to create a smooth sauce. Spoon the sauce around the lamb shanks and serve immediately.

Kleftiko is traditionally enjoyed with classic Greek side dishes like roasted potatoes, tzatziki, or a Greek salad. The combination of flavors in this dish will transport you to the vibrant Greek culinary traditions and create a memorable dining experience.

This recipe serves 4 people and can easily be doubled for larger gatherings. Leftover Kleftiko can be refrigerated and reheated for another delicious meal.

In summary, Kleftiko is a mouthwatering Greek dish that celebrates the tenderness of lamb shanks and the flavors of Mediterranean herbs. Enjoy the succulent lamb shanks alongside the savory tomato and onion sauce, and indulge in the rich and comforting flavors of this traditional Greek recipe.