Baked Lamb (Arni kleftiko)

Ingredients

• 1500-1800 g lamb cut into portions

• salt

• 4 bay leaves

• 5-6 large potatoes, peeled, whole

Method

1. Wash the meat and as it is damp, place it in a deep ovenproof dish with a lid, add the potatoes.

2. Salt and place bay leaves in between.

3. Cover and roast in a moderately hot oven (180°-190°C) for 11/2-2 hours or until the top side is golden brown.

4. Uncover and turn the meat. Cover again and continue to roast until the other side is golden brown. When the meat is tender, it is ready for serving.

5. If it is golden brown but not tender, continue to roast, turning it over 2-3 times every time the top side is golden brown until it is cooked.

Notes: 1. While roasting, the meat lets out juice in which it cooks. If, however, the meat is not tender and it is nearly left only with its oil, then while turning over add a little water.

2. This dish takes 2¼-3 hours to roast.