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Peka (Under The Bell Roast)

Croatian Peka (Under the Bell Roast)

Peka is a traditional Croatian dish of lamb or veal with vegetables slow cooked under a bell shaped lid or Dutch oven resulting in tender meat and smoky rich flavours served with bread or salad for a rustic feast
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours
Course Main Course
Cuisine Croatia
Servings 4
Calories 691 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the meat and vegetables

  • 1.2 kg lamb shoulder or veal cut into large chunks
  • 4 medium potatoes thickly sliced
  • 2 medium carrots cut into batons
  • 2 medium courgettes cut into thick slices
  • 2 large onions quartered
  • 1 red pepper cut into strips
  • 4 garlic cloves crushed

For seasoning

  • 100 ml olive oil
  • 200 ml white wine
  • 2 tsp sea salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp fresh rosemary chopped
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley chopped
  • 2 bay leaves

Instructions
 

  • To begin, cut the lamb or veal into large, even chunks. Place in a large bowl and rub generously with salt, pepper, rosemary, and parsley. Add garlic and drizzle with half the olive oil. Mix well and set aside while preparing the vegetables.
  • Slice the potatoes, courgettes, carrots, onions, and peppers. Place them in a separate bowl, season lightly with salt, and drizzle with the remaining olive oil. Toss to coat evenly. Transition to arranging the dish.
  • Place the seasoned vegetables at the base of a Dutch oven or heavy-lidded roasting dish. Layer the marinated meat on top, distributing evenly. Insert bay leaves between the layers for depth of flavour. Proceed to liquid addition.
  • Pour the white wine over the meat and vegetables. Cover tightly with the lid to trap steam and flavour. For authenticity, if cooking outdoors, use a traditional peka dome and cover with hot embers. Move to heating stage.
  • If using an oven, preheat to 180°C. Place the covered dish inside. If using outdoor embers, ensure the dome is fully surrounded with hot coals for even cooking. Continue to be cooking.
  • Cook for 1.5 to 2 hours, checking only once halfway to ensure liquid remains. Avoid frequent opening, as heat retention is key to authentic results. Transition to final roasting stage.
  • In the last 15–20 minutes, uncover the dish slightly to allow the top layer of meat and potatoes to brown and develop a gentle crust. Return lid if needed. Prepare to serve next.
  • Transfer the Peka directly to the table in its dish for rustic presentation. Garnish with extra parsley. Traditionally served with fresh bread and a side of salad. Offer extra olive oil or a wedge of lemon for brightness.

Nutrition

Serving: 1Calories: 691kcalCarbohydrates: 52gProtein: 45gFat: 33gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 21gCholesterol: 121mgSodium: 1344mgPotassium: 1984mgFiber: 8gSugar: 9gVitamin A: 6333IUVitamin C: 106mgCalcium: 104mgIron: 6mg
Keyword roast
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