Croatian lamb peka

Story behind the dish

Imagine gathering around a rustic Croatian table, the aroma of slow-braised lamb filling the air and mingling with the scent of fresh herbs and roasted vegetables. The peka tradition, rooted in Croatian heritage, transforms humble ingredients into a culinary warm hug—rich, hearty, and endlessly inviting. This dish celebrates simplicity and patience, offering a taste of Croatian countryside in every bite.

Ingredients

• 1.3 lbs (600 g) potatoes, chopped
• 1 zucchini, chopped
• 1 carrot, chopped
• 1 green pepper, chopped
• 1 small eggplant, chopped
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 1.75 lbs (800 g) lamb shoulder, cut into large chunks (or leg)
• 1 tablespoon garlic sauce
• 1 tablespoon tomato puree
• ⅓ cup (80 ml) olive oil
• A sprinkle of thyme
• 1 cup (250 ml) white wine
• A pinch of black pepper
• Salt, to taste
• Fresh rosemary, thyme, and sage (try to keep herb stalks on top for easy removal)

Step-by-step

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C / fan 200°C / Gas mark 7).
2. If your lamb isn’t already diced, cut the shoulder or leg into large chunks and set aside.
3. Make the marinade by mixing olive oil, garlic sauce, sun-dried tomato puree, black pepper, and salt in a bowl.
4. Spread the chopped potatoes, onion, zucchini, carrot, and green pepper evenly in a large lidded casserole dish or a well-covered cast iron pan.
5. Layer the lamb chunks on top of the vegetables. Pour the marinade and white wine over the entire dish, ensuring everything is well coated.
6. Add sprigs of thyme, rosemary, and sage on top, trying to keep the herb stalks intact for easy removal later.
7. Cover with a lid or seal tightly with kitchen foil and place in the oven. Cook for about 1 hour and 30 minutes until the lamb is tender and flavors melded.
8. Remove the lid, discard the herb stalks, and stir in 2 tablespoons of olive oil for a glossy, flavorful finish.
9. Return to the oven and cook uncovered for an additional 20-30 minutes to develop a rich, aromatic crust.
10. Serve hot, ideally accompanied by fresh homemade bread for dipping into the savory juices.

Chef’s tips & serving ideas

• For an extra layer of flavor, add a handful of olives or cherry tomatoes before the final baking stage.
• Serve with crusty bread to soak up the deliciously seasoned juices, enhancing each bite with comforting warmth.

Closing thoughts

This Croatian lamb peka is more than just a meal—it's an experience that connects you to centuries-old traditions, slow-cooked magic, and the hearty embrace of family and home. With patience and love, you can create a dish that's tender, flavorful, and utterly inviting—a true taste of Croatian countryside in your own kitchen.