Vasilis Leonidou, Executive Chef, Kapsaliana Village Hotel
An award-winning chef, Leonidou holds culinary court at this picturesque hotel, olive press and restaurant. Set among one of the island’s largest olive groves, the hotel houses the estate’s original 18th-century olive press. Leonidou’s recipes are refined and offer international flair, and they make the most of Crete’s local ingredients. The recipe below is based on a dish from southern Crete served at weddings, where its honey is considered good for fertility.
Published: February 14, 2018
Ingredients
Directions
In large sauté pan over medium heat, pour thick layer of olive oil. Add lamb and cook, stirring until it starts to brown. Add garlic, onions, salt and pepper. Cook until meat is browned on all sides. Add wine, and scrape up any browned bits on bottom of pan. Add tomatoes, tomato paste, cinnamon sticks and bay leaves. Reduce heat to medium-low, and cook until meat is tender, about 1 hour. Drizzle 1 spoon honey and a few drops of olive oil to each portion before serving. Serves 4.
Tips
Leonidou suggests to serve with a side salad of boiled mixed legumes, bulgur, lemon juice and olive oil.
