Laconia is a region full of history, and when it comes to flavors, it pulls out all the stops. One of its most characteristic recipes is the Rooster Bardouniotikos; a classic dish full of aromas and flavors due to the many spices used in the recipe.

 

You will need:

• 1 free-range rooster, cut into small pieces
• 15 small whole potatoes
• 4 red onions (cut into quarters)
• 2-3 white onions (cut into quarters)
• 2-3 cloves of garlic, finely chopped
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 3 4-5 ripe tomatoes, grated
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 2 cups water
• 1 tsp salt
• 5-6 black peppercorns
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 6-8 cloves
• 5 allspice berries
• 2 bay leaves
• 150 g feta cheese
• 150 g gruyere cheese (or sfela or kefalotyri)

 

Execution

• Clean and cut the rooster into portions.
• Heat the oil and sauté the rooster. Remove it and add the potatoes. Once they are browned, add the onions and garlic. Sauté them and return the rooster to the pot; add all the spices. Add the tomato and water and cover with the lid.
• Turn the heat down and simmer for approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.
• Turn off the heat and add diced cheese. Put back the lid and leave for five minutes, until the cheese melts.

 

Enjoy!