Roaster is one of the most traditional and useful cookware in Greek cuisine. With its ability to retain heat and ensure even cooking, it’s ideal for slow-cooking meats and vegetables, delivering dishes full of flavor and aroma. Here are five delicious recipes you can try using a roaster, and if you don’t have one learn why the NAVA roasters are an excellent choice for your kitchen.
1. Lemon Chicken with Potatoes in the Roaster
One of the most beloved Greek dishes, lemon chicken with potatoes is perfect for a family meal. The roaster ensures the chicken stays juicy while the potatoes absorb all the flavors.
Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken
- 1 kg potatoes
- Juice of 2 lemons
- 2-3 garlic cloves
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- Salt, pepper, oregano
- Olive oil
Method:
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Rub the chicken with mustard, lemon juice, and olive oil. Cut the potatoes into large pieces and place them around the chicken. Add garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bake for 1.5-2 hours.
2. Beef Stew with Hilopites (Greek Pasta) in the Roaster
Slow cooking in a roaster is perfect for tenderizing beef and creating a rich tomato sauce.
Ingredients:
- 1 kg beef (cubed)
- 1 chopped onion
- 3 grated tomatoes
- 1 glass of red wine
- 1 pack of hilopites (Greek pasta)
- Salt, pepper, cinnamon
- Olive oil
Method:
Sauté the onion and beef in olive oil until browned. Deglaze with wine, then add the tomatoes and spices. Transfer the mixture to the roaster and cook for 2-2.5 hours. Add the hilopites during the last 30 minutes.
3. Lamb with Rosemary and Garlic
Lamb in the roaster is a classic choice for festive meals. Rosemary and garlic give it a strong aroma.
Ingredients:
- 1 kg lamb (leg or shoulder)
- 2-3 garlic cloves
- Sprigs of rosemary
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Olive oil
- Salt, pepper
Method:
Make small cuts in the lamb and insert pieces of garlic and rosemary. Rub with olive oil and lemon juice. Place the lamb in the roaster and bake for 3-3.5 hours at 160°C until tender.
4. Giouvetsi with Lamb and Orzo
Giouvetsi in the roaster is a staple of Greek cuisine. The orzo absorbs the meat’s juices, making it exceptionally flavorful.
Ingredients:
- 1 kg lamb (in pieces)
- 2 cups orzo
- 1 onion
- 2 grated tomatoes
- 1 cup meat broth
- Salt, pepper, bay leaf
Method:
Sauté the lamb with the onion until browned. Add tomatoes and broth. Transfer to the roaster and bake for 1.5 hours at 180°C. Add the orzo and cook for another 20-30 minutes.
5. Briam (Greek Roasted Vegetables) in the Roaster
A light and healthy dish, briam combines summer vegetables and olive oil, slow-cooking them in the roaster to bring out their natural flavors.
Ingredients:
- 2 eggplants
- 2 zucchinis
- 3 potatoes
- 2 bell peppers
- 4 grated tomatoes
- 2 garlic cloves
- Parsley, salt, pepper
- Olive oil
Method:
Slice all the vegetables and place them in the roaster. Add the tomatoes, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well with olive oil and bake at 180°C for 1.5 hours.
Why Choose a NAVA Roaster?
NAVA’s roasters stand out for their quality and durability. Here are a few reasons why they’re a top choice:
1. Even Heat Distribution: NAVA roasters are made from high-quality materials such as cast iron or ceramics, ensuring even heat distribution. This means your food cooks evenly, avoiding burning or undercooking.
2. Durability: The long-lasting nature of NAVA roasters makes them resistant to wear and tear, even with frequent use and high temperatures.
3. Ergonomic Design: NAVA roasters feature practical lids and handles, making cooking easier. The lid helps retain moisture, ensuring meats stay juicy and vegetables tender.
4. Easy to Clean: Thanks to their non-stick surfaces and quality coatings, NAVA roasters are easy to clean without needing harsh cleaning products.
5. Stylish Design: Beyond functionality, NAVA roasters are aesthetically pleasing. Their modern design fits any kitchen, making them perfect for serving directly at the table as well.
By choosing a NAVA roaster, you invest in a long-lasting kitchen tool that ensures flawless cooking results.