Kleftiko
Kleftiko is a traditional Greek slow-cooked lamb dish, typically made with lamb (often on the bone), potatoes, garlic, lemon, and herbs like oregano, all wrapped and cooked for hours until incredibly tender. It originates from Greece, particularly associated with the Peloponnese region and the concept of 'kleftes' or thieves who cooked their meat slowly in hidden pits.
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🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This dish is high in protein from the lamb and fat from the meat and olive oil, with moderate carbohydrates from the potatoes. A typical serving provides a good source of iron, zinc, and B vitamins, and generally ranges from 400 to 600 calories per generous portion.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 450 kcal |
| Protein | 35 g |
| Carbs | 10 g |
| Fat | 30 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 4 g |
| Sodium | 650 mg |
| Iron | 4.5 mg |
| Zinc | 6.0 mg |
| Vitamin B12 | 3.5 µg |
| Niacin (B3) | 10 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.5 mg |
| Selenium | 30 µg |
| Phosphorus | 280 mg |
| Potassium | 500 mg |
Per 1 typical serving (approx. 300 g, including lamb, vegetables, and juices) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, Kleftiko's slow-cooking method is said to have been developed by Greek klephts (mountain guerrillas) to cook meat discreetly without the smoke giving away their hideouts. Nutritionally, the long, slow cooking breaks down connective tissue, making the lamb exceptionally tender and easier to digest.
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AI estimate may be inaccurate · Terms