Beef Stifado: A Greek Culinary Delight

Transport your taste buds to Greece with Beef Stifado recipe, a hearty and flavorful stew that embodies the essence of Greek cuisine. This dish combines tender beef with onions, garlic, and a medley of aromatic spices, slow-cooked in a tangy tomato-based sauce. Stifado is perfect for a cozy family meal or a special dinner, bringing warmth and tradition to your table.

Ingredients

For the Stifado:

• 1.5 kg (3 lbs) beef chuck or stewing beef, cut into large chunks
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 2 large onions, finely chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cups pearl onions, peeled
• 1/2 cup red wine vinegar
• 1/2 cup beef broth
• 1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 3 whole cloves
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp ground allspice
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Garnish:

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• A drizzle of olive oil

Instructions

Sear the Beef

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef chunks and sear them on all sides until browned. Remove the beef and set aside.

Sauté the Onions and Garlic

1. In the same pot, add the chopped onions and sauté until soft and golden.
2. Add the garlic and pearl onions, cooking for another 2–3 minutes.

Deglaze and Build the Sauce

1. Pour in the red wine vinegar, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits.
2. Stir in the beef broth, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, cinnamon stick, cloves, bay leaves, oregano, and allspice.

Simmer the Stifado

1. Return the beef to the pot and bring the mixture to a simmer.
2. Cover and cook on low heat for 2–3 hours, or until the beef is tender and the sauce has thickened. Stir occasionally and adjust seasoning as needed.

Serve

1. Remove the cinnamon stick, bay leaves, and cloves before serving.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley and a drizzle of olive oil. Serve hot with crusty bread, rice, or orzo.

Why You’ll Love Beef Stifado

• Rich and Aromatic: The blend of spices and tomato-based sauce creates a depth of flavor.
• Hearty and Satisfying: Perfect for family meals or special occasions.
• Authentically Greek: A dish that captures the warmth and traditions of Greek cuisine.

This Beef Stifado is a timeless Greek recipe that brings together the warmth of home-cooked meals and the rich flavors of Greece. Whether you’re looking for a hearty dinner or exploring new cuisines, this dish promises to impress. Serve it with your favorite side and let the flavors transport you to a Greek taverna!