Traditional Greek Kleftiko Recipe – Slow Cooked Lamb Shanks with Potatoes

This traditional Greek Kleftiko recipe features slow-cooked lamb shanks wrapped in parchment paper and foil, flavored with herbs and spices, and served with baby new potatoes. Perfect for a special occasion or family dinner.

Ingredients:

• 4 Lamb Shanks (approximately 450g each)
• 500g Diced Mirepoix (carrots, onions, celery)
• 1 kg Baby New Potatoes, halved
• 8 Thyme Sprigs
• 4 Garlic Cloves, halved
• Olive Oil, as needed
• Salt & Pepper, to taste
• 8 Bay Leaves

Method:

1. Preheat your oven to 210°C (410°F).
2. Season the lamb shanks with salt and pepper.
3. In a piece of parchment paper, add one lamb shank, one bay leaf, half a garlic clove, one thyme sprig, some of the diced Mirepoix, some olive oil, and 5-6 baby new potatoes.
4. Wrap everything in the parchment paper and then in aluminum foil. Repeat the procedure with the remaining lamb shanks.
5. Place the prepared lamb shanks in an oven pan and into the oven.
6. Cook for 15 minutes at 210°C (410°F) and then lower the oven temperature to 140°C (284°F).
7. Continue cooking for 3 hours until the lamb shanks are tender and flavorful.
8. Serve hot with the baby new potatoes. Enjoy!