Kokoras Krasatos: Traditional Greek Rooster in Red Wine Sauce

Kokoras Krasatos is a classic Greek recipe that captures the deep, rustic flavours of the Mediterranean countryside. Literally meaning “rooster cooked in wine,” this beloved dish combines tender meat, aromatic herbs, and rich red wine to create one of Greece’s most comforting traditional stews.

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🐓 What Is Kokoras Krasatos?

Kokoras Krasatos is a slow-cooked Greek rooster stew made in a red wine and tomato sauce. Often compared to the French coq au vin, it carries a uniquely Greek character — olive oil, cinnamon, and local wine infuse the dish with warm, aromatic flavors.

Historically, Greek families prepared it using mature farm roosters, simmering them for hours until the meat was perfectly tender. Today, many cooks substitute chicken, but the rich wine sauce remains the heart of the dish.

Interestingly, there’s a historical parallel with France: Napoleon is said to have stopped at an inn where, with nothing else to serve, the cook slaughtered a rooster and braised it in red wine. The dish was so delicious that it inspired the famous French coq au vin.

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🍅 Ingredients for Authentic Kokoras Krasatos

The key to an authentic Kokoras Krasatos lies in simple, high-quality ingredients, reflecting the essence of Greek home cooking.

Traditional Ingredients:

• 1 whole rooster or chicken, cut into serving pieces

• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

• 2 onions, finely chopped

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup dry red wine (Xinomavro or Agiorgitiko recommended)

• 400 g crushed tomatoes or two tablespoons tomato paste

• 1 bay leaf

• 1 stick of cinnamon

• 3 allspice berries or a pinch of ground allspice

• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional: A splash of vinegar or a teaspoon of sugar to balance acidity.

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🍷 How to Make Kokoras Krasatos (Step-by-Step)

1. Brown the rooster:
   Heat olive oil in a large pot and brown the rooster pieces on all sides. Remove and set aside.

2. Sauté the aromatics:
   Add onions and garlic to the same pot and cook until golden.

3. Deglaze with wine:
   Pour in the red wine, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Let the alcohol evaporate for 3–5 minutes.

4. Simmer the stew:
   Add tomatoes, spices, and the browned rooster. Cover and simmer gently for 1½ to 2 hours, until the meat is tender and the sauce is rich and thick.

5. Adjust seasoning:
   Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and acidity before serving.

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🍝 Serving Suggestions

Kokoras Krasatos is traditionally served with hilopites, a type of Greek egg pasta that perfectly absorbs the rich red sauce. Other popular pairings include:

• Mashed potatoes

• Rice pilaf

• Crusty village bread

A glass of the same red wine used in cooking — robust and earthy — completes the experience.

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🌿 A Dish Full of Greek Heritage

Kokoras Krasatos is more than just a meal — it’s Greek culinary history on a plate. From mountain villages to island kitchens, this dish reflects the ingenuity of Greek cooks, turning humble ingredients into a hearty, flavorful masterpiece.

Whether you’re discovering authentic Greek food for the first time or revisiting a family favourite, Kokoras Krasatos offers everything that makes Greek cuisine unforgettable: warmth, flavour, and tradition.