Traditional Greek Leg of Lamb: Perfect Slow Roasted Recipe

Published: November 17, 2025

by Hannah Reed

Why You'll Love This Traditional Greek Leg of Lamb

This incredible Traditional Greek Leg of Lamb transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.

Ingredients for Traditional Greek Leg of Lamb

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Traditional Greek Leg of Lamb:

12 cloves garlic – Peeled and ready to release their aromatic magic.
7 lb / 3.5 kg leg of lamb – Look for a fresh cut for the best flavor and tenderness.
Salt and pepper – Essential seasoning to enhance the meat’s natural flavors.
3 tsp paprika powder – Adds a mild sweetness and vibrant color.
3 tsp garlic powder – For that extra garlicky goodness that we all love.
2 tbsp olive oil – Use high-quality extra virgin for optimal flavor.
2 large onions – Quartered to add sweetness and depth during roasting.
10 sprigs thyme – Fresh thyme brings a fragrant, woodsy aroma.
3 sprigs rosemary – A must for its robust flavor that pairs beautifully with lamb.
3 tsp dried oregano – Adds Mediterranean flair with its aromatic profile.
3 dried bay leaves – Infuses a subtle earthiness into the dish.
1/2 cup / 125 ml lemon juice – Freshly squeezed for that zesty, bright kick.
1 1/2 cups / 375 ml white wine – Enhances the complexity of flavors in the sauce.
2 cups / 500 ml chicken broth – Provides moisture and richness to the roasting pan sauce.

How to Make Traditional Greek Leg of Lamb

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Traditional Greek Leg of Lamb:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 240°C (465°F) or 220°C if using a fan oven. Getting the oven temperature right is crucial for that beautiful crust we all love.

Step 2: Prepare the Lamb
Using a small knife, make about 25 incisions all over the leg of lamb—mostly on the top. Cut 6 cloves of garlic into slivers and stuff them into those incisions. This will imbue the meat with delightful garlicky goodness.

Step 3: Season Generously
Sprinkle the lamb generously with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Drizzle olive oil over it and rub it all over the meat to ensure every bite is packed with flavor.

Step 4: Initial Roasting
Place the lamb in a roasting pan and roast for 30 minutes or until it boasts a glorious brown crust. This step is all about creating that sought-after crust that keeps the juiciness inside.

Step 5: Add the Goodness
Remove the lamb from the oven. Lower the temperature to 180°C (350°F), turn the lamb upside down, and arrange the quartered onions, thyme, rosemary, oregano, bay leaves, lemon juice, white wine, and chicken broth around it. Pour in hot water until it reaches about 1/4 to 1/3 up the height of the lamb.

Step 6: Slow Roast to Perfection
Cover the pan with a lid or parchment paper followed by two layers of foil. Roast for 3.5 hours, checking occasionally to add water if needed. This slow roasting will allow the flavors to meld beautifully while keeping the meat incredibly tender.

Once your miracle lamb emerges from the oven, be ready to dazzle your guests. Carefully uncover, flip the lamb to right-side-up, cover again, and roast for another 2.5 hours until you can easily shred the meat with forks. For the crowning touch, remove the cover for the last 20-30 minutes to let it brown perfectly.

Transfer the succulent lamb to a serving platter, cover loosely with foil, and let it rest for 30-40 minutes. This resting time is key to ensure every juicy morsel weaves its way into your mouth in the most delightful fashion.

Pour the drippings into a jug, skim off any excess fat, and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and a splash more lemon juice if preferred. Serve your Traditional Greek Leg of Lamb with that gorgeous sauce on the side, and get ready for an unforgettable dining experience.

You’ve just unlocked a culinary masterpiece that showcases the beauty of traditional recipes, making your next meal one for the books. Enjoy every savory bite!

You Must Know About Traditional Greek Leg of Lamb

This showstopping Traditional Greek Leg of Lamb delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.

Perfecting Traditional Greek Leg of Lamb Cooking Process

Start by preparing the marinade for the lamb while letting the oven preheat. Make incisions and stuff garlic, season, and brown the lamb. After the initial roasting, add the remaining ingredients and let the magic happen. The sequence will optimize flavors and tenderness.

Add Your Touch to Traditional Greek Leg of Lamb

Feel free to swap the white wine for red or use different herbs like mint or dill instead of thyme and rosemary. You could even toss in some chopped olives or sun-dried tomatoes for an extra Mediterranean flair. Personalize it to your palate!

Storing & Reheating Traditional Greek Leg of Lamb

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, place the lamb in a covered dish in a preheated oven at 160°C/320°F for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through. Enjoy the flavors again!

Chef's Helpful Tips for Traditional Greek Leg of Lamb

This professional-quality Traditional Greek Leg of Lamb relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.

Sharing this recipe at a family gathering once led to everyone arguing over who got the last piece. Laughter filled the air as forks clinked, and someone even tried to negotiate for the lamb bone! Those moments remind me why cooking with love matters.

FAQs About Traditional Greek Leg of Lamb

What is Traditional Greek Leg of Lamb?

Traditional Greek Leg of Lamb is a classic dish that embodies the rich flavors of Mediterranean cuisine. This culinary masterpiece involves slow-roasting a leg of lamb seasoned with garlic, herbs, and spices, resulting in savory meat that’s tender and easy to pull apart. It’s often served with sides like roasted vegetables or potatoes, making it a popular choice for gatherings and special occasions. The slow-cooking process enhances the flavor, ensuring a memorable dining experience that is as comforting as it is delicious.

How do I prepare Traditional Greek Leg of Lamb?

Preparing Traditional Greek Leg of Lamb begins with marinating the meat and creating incisions to infuse it with garlic and herbs. After seasoning generously with spices like paprika and oregano, the leg is initially roasted at a high temperature to achieve a golden crust. Then, it’s slow-cooked with an aromatic blend of onions, wine, and broth, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. This careful preparation results in wonderfully tender lamb that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds.

What are some variations of Traditional Greek Leg of Lamb?

There are many delicious variations of Traditional Greek Leg of Lamb you can try. While the classic version uses white wine, feel free to experiment by substituting it with red wine for a bolder flavor. You can also incorporate different herbs, such as dill or mint, to add a unique twist. Adding olives or sun-dried tomatoes can bring an extra Mediterranean flair. Whatever you choose, personalizing the recipe will enhance your culinary experience and make the dish uniquely yours.

Can I store leftovers of Traditional Greek Leg of Lamb?

Yes, storing leftovers of Traditional Greek Leg of Lamb is easy and a great way to enjoy the flavors again. Simply place the remaining lamb in an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to three days. To reheat, put the lamb in a covered dish in a preheated oven at 160°C/320°F for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through. This method preserves the moisture and flavors, ensuring that your delicious lamb remains appetizing for your next meal.

Conclusion for Traditional Greek Leg of Lamb

In conclusion, Traditional Greek Leg of Lamb is a stunning dish that combines simple ingredients with time-honored techniques to create something truly special. The slow-roasting method results in tender, flavorful meat that is perfect for sharing with family and friends. Remember to have fun experimenting with different herbs and spices while preparing this dish, making it your own. So gather your loved ones, set the table, and enjoy the delightful experience of savoring Traditional Greek Leg of Lamb together!