Lamb Kleftiko: Greek Lamb Cooked in Parchment Paper

A traditional Greek slow-roasted lamb dish infused with Mediterranean flavors. The lamb is marinated with lemon, garlic, and aromatic herbs, then wrapped in parchment paper and roasted until fall-apart tender. Perfect for a special occasion or a hearty family meal.

📝 Ingredients

• 4-5 pounds boneless legg of lamb or shoulder
• 4-5 Potatoes, peeled
• 6 garlic cloves, peeled
• 2 bell peppers, cubed
• 1 red onion, sliced or diced
• 2 tomatoes, diced
• feta cheese cubed
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup (or more) lemon juice
• 2 garlic cloves, grated
• 1/3 cup water
• 1 sprig rosemary
• 2 teaspoons salt or to taste
• 2 tablespoons dried crushed oregano
• freshly cracked black pepper
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander

👨‍🍳 Instructions

1. 1In a large bowl, mix together olive oil,...: In a large bowl, mix together olive oil, lemon juice, grated garlic, water, salt, oregano, black pepper, cumin, and coriander.
2. 2Add the lamb to the marinade, ensuring it...: Add the lamb to the marinade, ensuring it is well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
3. 3Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
4. 4Cut the potatoes, bell peppers, and tomatoes. Slice...: Cut the potatoes, bell peppers, and tomatoes. Slice or dice the red onion.
5. 5If using whole garlic cloves, leave them whole...: If using whole garlic cloves, leave them whole for a mellow roasted flavor.
6. 6Lay out a large sheet of parchment paper...: Lay out a large sheet of parchment paper or aluminum foil. Place the marinated lamb in the center.
7. 7Scatter the potatoes, garlic, bell peppers, onion, and...: Scatter the potatoes, garlic, bell peppers, onion, and tomatoes around the lamb.
8. 8Sprinkle with feta cheese and place the rosemary...: Sprinkle with feta cheese and place the rosemary sprig on top.
9. 9Wrap the parchment tightly around the lamb, securing...: Wrap the parchment tightly around the lamb, securing the edges to form a sealed packet. Use kitchen twine or an additional layer of foil to ensure no juices escape.
10. 10Place the parchment-wrapped lamb in a roasting pan...: Place the parchment-wrapped lamb in a roasting pan and bake for 4 to 4 and 1/2 hours, or until the meat is tender and easily pulls apart.
11. 11For extra color, unwrap the parchment during the...: For extra color, unwrap the parchment during the last 20-30 minutes and let the lamb brown.
12. 12Let the lamb rest for 10 minutes before...: Let the lamb rest for 10 minutes before slicing or shredding. Serve with the roasted vegetables and pan juices.