Description
Giouvetsi is a classic Greek comfort dish made with tender beef, orzo pasta, and a rich tomato sauce infused with warm spices and aromatic herbs. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or special gathering.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1 ½ lb diced beef
- 1 large onion, diced
- 4 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- ½ cup red wine
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 can (14 oz / 400 g) crushed tomatoes
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 2 cups chicken stock
- 2 cups orzo
- ½ cup grated Kefalotyri or Parmesan
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add diced beef and season lightly with salt.
- Brown the beef for 8–10 minutes on all sides, working in batches if needed. Remove and set aside.
- Add remaining olive oil to the pot along with onion and garlic. Cook for 4–5 minutes until translucent.
- Pour in the red wine and cook for 1–2 minutes until mostly evaporated.
- Stir in tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, nutmeg, bay leaves, and cinnamon stick.
- Add chicken stock, return beef to the pot, and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 45 minutes.
- Remove bay leaves and cinnamon stick.
- Stir in orzo and cook for 15–20 minutes, stirring frequently. Add extra stock if needed.
- Stir in grated cheese, adjust seasoning, and serve hot.
Notes
- Stir orzo frequently to prevent sticking.
- Add extra broth if the stew thickens too much.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Greek