Arnaki me Spanahi kai Krasi

Arnaki me Spanahi kai Krasi Recipe from Cyprus - Olive Oil, Lamb, Onion, Garlic, Tomato, Red Wine, Spinach, Lemon, Cinnamon, and Parsley

Region / culture: Cyprus | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour and 5 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Arnaki me Spanahi kai Krasi is a traditional Greek dish that translates to Lamb with Spinach and Wine. This hearty and flavorful recipe combines tender pieces of lamb with the earthy tones of spinach, all brought together with the richness of red wine and aromatic spices. It's a dish that encapsulates the essence of Greek cuisine, offering a perfect balance of meat, vegetables, and herbs, cooked to perfection to create a meal that is both comforting and sophisticated.

History

The origins of Arnaki me Spanahi kai Krasi can be traced back to the rural areas of Greece, where local ingredients and simple cooking methods were the foundations of every meal. Lamb has always been a staple in Greek cooking, given the country's extensive sheep farming, while spinach and wine are products of the fertile Greek land. This recipe is a testament to the Greek way of life, where food is about bringing together the best of what the land offers, using cooking as a way to celebrate the flavors and the seasons.

Ingredients

200 ml olive oil
1 kg lamb, cut in large pieces
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves of garlic, chopped
2 tbsp tomato puree
300 ml red wine
1 kg spinach, washed
1 lemon, juice of
0.5 tsp ground cinnamon
1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to prepare

In a large saucepan, heat the oil over medium to high heat. Sauté the lamb in the olive oil until it is browned all over. Add the onion and garlic and fry until they are soft, stirring occasionally.
Dilute the tomato puree with the wine and pour it over the meat, adding the cinnamon. Mix very well, adding hot water or vegetable stock to just cover the meat. Cover the pan and simmer for one hour.
Add the spinach and season well with salt and pepper. Squeeze the juice of one lemon and cook for an additional 5 minutes. Add parsley and serve with rice.

Variations

For a twist on the traditional recipe, you can add other vegetables such as tomatoes or bell peppers. Some versions also include feta cheese for added creaminess and flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the lamb is tender and flavorful, it's important to brown it well at the beginning of the cooking process. This not only adds depth to the flavor but also seals in the juices. When adding the spinach, make sure it is thoroughly washed and drained to avoid excess water in the dish. Lastly, choosing a good quality red wine can significantly enhance the overall taste of the dish, as it adds acidity and complexity to the flavors.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is traditionally served with a side of rice or potatoes, which complements the rich flavors of the lamb and spinach. A simple salad dressed with olive oil and lemon juice can also be a refreshing addition to the meal.

Cooking Techniques

Slow cooking is key to achieving the tender texture of the lamb and allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. Using a heavy-bottomed pot or a slow cooker can yield excellent results.

Ingredient Substitutions

If lamb is not available, beef or goat meat can be used as alternatives. For a vegetarian version, mushrooms or chickpeas can replace the meat.

Make Ahead Tips

This dish can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, allowing the flavors to develop further. Simply reheat gently before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the dish in a deep, rustic bowl to highlight its hearty nature. Garnish with extra chopped parsley and a lemon wedge for a touch of freshness.

Pairing Recommendations

A robust red wine, such as a Greek Agiorgitiko or a Cabernet Sauvignon, pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of the lamb and the earthiness of the spinach.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To reheat, place in a saucepan over low heat, adding a little water or stock to prevent drying out.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of Arnaki me Spanahi kai Krasi contains approximately 400 calories, making it a moderately calorie-dense meal. The majority of these calories come from the proteins and fats in the lamb, with a smaller contribution from the vegetables and wine.

Carbohydrates

This dish is relatively low in carbohydrates, with the primary source being the tomato puree and the onions. The total carbohydrate content per serving is approximately 10g, making it a suitable option for those following a low-carb diet.

Fats

The olive oil and lamb contribute to the fat content of this dish. However, using lean cuts of lamb and controlling the amount of olive oil can keep the fat content in check. On average, a serving contains about 20g of fat, with a mix of monounsaturated, polyunsaturated, and saturated fats.

Proteins

Lamb is an excellent source of high-quality protein, essential for muscle repair and growth. A single serving of Arnaki me Spanahi kai Krasi provides approximately 30g of protein, making it a hearty and fulfilling meal option.

Vitamins and minerals

Spinach is a nutritional powerhouse, rich in vitamins A, C, K, and several B vitamins, as well as minerals like iron, magnesium, and calcium. The lamb also contributes to the intake of B vitamins, particularly vitamin B12, and minerals such as zinc and selenium.

Alergens

This recipe is free from common allergens such as nuts, dairy, and gluten. However, those with sensitivities to sulfites found in wine should exercise caution.

Summary

Arnaki me Spanahi kai Krasi is a balanced meal, offering a good mix of proteins, fats, and essential vitamins and minerals. It's relatively low in carbohydrates and calories, making it a suitable option for those watching their intake.

Summary

Arnaki me Spanahi kai Krasi is a classic Greek dish that offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures. With its rich nutritional profile and comforting taste, it's a perfect meal for any occasion, embodying the simplicity and richness of Greek cuisine.

How did I get this recipe?

It feels like just yesterday when I stumbled upon this recipe for Arnaki me Spanahi kai Krasi. I can still remember the warm, sunny day when I first tasted this delicious dish. It was at a quaint little restaurant in a small village in Greece, where the fragrant aroma of garlic and herbs filled the air and the sound of laughter and conversation echoed through the narrow cobblestone streets.

I had been traveling through Greece, exploring the rich history and culture of this beautiful country. As a lover of food and cooking, I made it a point to sample as many traditional Greek dishes as possible. And it was during one of my many culinary adventures that I was introduced to Arnaki me Spanahi kai Krasi.

The dish was a delightful combination of tender lamb, fresh spinach, and aromatic herbs, all simmered together in a rich and flavorful red wine sauce. It was a dish that spoke of tradition and love, and I knew instantly that I had to learn how to make it myself.

I approached the chef, a kind and jovial man with a twinkle in his eye, and asked him if he would be willing to share his recipe with me. To my delight, he agreed, and we spent the afternoon in his kitchen, chopping, stirring, and tasting our way through the ingredients.

As we worked, he shared with me the story behind the dish. He told me how Arnaki me Spanahi kai Krasi was a family recipe, passed down through generations of Greek cooks. It was a dish that was traditionally served at celebrations and special occasions, a dish that brought people together and warmed their hearts.

I listened intently as he explained the importance of using fresh, high-quality ingredients, and the care and attention that went into preparing each component of the dish. From the tender lamb, marinated in garlic and herbs, to the vibrant spinach, wilted to perfection, every element of Arnaki me Spanahi kai Krasi had its own story to tell.

As we sat down to enjoy the fruits of our labor, I savored the first bite of the dish that had captured my heart. The flavors danced on my tongue, the tender lamb melting in my mouth, the rich wine sauce adding depth and complexity to each bite. It was a meal that spoke to my soul, a meal that transported me back to that sunny day in the village, surrounded by good food and good company.

Since that day, I have made Arnaki me Spanahi kai Krasi countless times, each time infusing it with my own love and memories. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, passing on the tradition and the joy that comes with preparing this dish.

And as I stand in my kitchen now, the scent of garlic and herbs wafting through the air, I am grateful for the journey that led me to this recipe. It is a recipe that has brought me closer to my Greek roots, a recipe that has connected me to the past and the present, a recipe that will always hold a special place in my heart.

As I take a bite of the finished dish, savoring the familiar flavors and aromas, I am reminded of that sunny day in Greece, of the chef who shared his recipe with me, and of the love and tradition that are woven into every bite of Arnaki me Spanahi kai Krasi. It is a dish that will forever hold a place of honor in my kitchen, a dish that will always bring me back to that moment of discovery and joy.