Meat Peka Recipe

Discover the authenticity of meat peka

We offer you this traditional peka recipe, combining meat and local spices for a unique taste experience.

Ingredients :

• 1.5 kg lamb (you can also use chicken or veal)

• 1 kg potatoes

• 2-3 red onions

• 4-5 garlic cloves

• 2-3 carrots

• 1 dl olive oil or lard

• 1 dl white wine

• Rosemary, thyme, bay leaf

• Local spices, or alternatively, salt and pepper to taste

Preparation:

Meat Preparation:

• Cut the meat into large pieces. Place it in a bowl, add salt, pepper, chopped garlic, and a little rosemary.

• Drizzle with olive oil and white wine, then let it marinate for 1 to 2 hours (ideally overnight).

Vegetable Preparation:

• Peel the potatoes and cut them in half or quarters, depending on their size.

• Slice the carrots into rounds and cut the onion into large pieces.

• Lightly season the vegetables with salt, pepper, and a little olive oil.

Arranging Under the Bell:

• In an oven-safe dish, arrange the meat and surround it with the vegetables.

• Add a few sprigs of rosemary, bay leaves, and thyme. Pour the remaining marinade over everything.

Preparing the Bell (Peka):

• Heat the bell cover (metal lid) in the fire until it is very hot.

• Place the dish on a suitable surface (preferably stone or bricks). Cover it with the bell and pile embers and hot coals on top. Let it cook for 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the quantity of meat.

Checking:

• After 1 hour of cooking, you can lift the lid to check if the meat is cooked and if the vegetables are tender. If necessary, add more coals on top to maintain the heat.

Finishing Touch:

• When the meat is tender and golden, the dish is ready. Remove it from under the bell and serve with the potatoes and vegetables.

• For extra flavor, you can add a drizzle of olive oil before serving.

Tips:

• You can substitute lamb with pork, veal, or even octopus.

• Cooking under the bell works best with a wood fire, so make sure you have enough embers to cover the lid.

• It’s important to seal the bell with embers around the edges to prevent air from entering. This helps maintain a steady heat and encourages steaming, which keeps the food tender and flavorful.

Enjoy this authentic specialty!

Recipe for Lamb Under the Bell (Peka), a Traditional Cooking Method