Imagine a hearty, soul-warming dish that combines tender beef, perfectly cooked orzo, and rich Mediterranean flavors in one incredible meal. Beef Giouvetsi is not just a stew; it's a culinary journey through the rustic kitchens of Greece, where every bite tells a story of tradition, love, and incredible home cooking. This classic Greek recipe transforms simple ingredients into a luxurious, mouthwatering experience that will have your family and friends begging for seconds.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs 30 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 45 mins
Cuisine: Greek
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef, cut into cubes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tsp oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare ingredients by cutting beef into 1-inch cubes, finely chopping onion, and mincing garlic.
- Season beef cubes generously with salt, pepper, and oregano, ensuring even coating.
- Heat a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat with olive oil.
- Brown beef cubes in batches, creating a deep golden crust on all sides. Remove browned meat and set aside.
- In the same pot, sauté chopped onions until translucent and slightly caramelized, about 5-6 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Return browned beef to the pot and add diced tomatoes, stirring to combine.
- Pour in beef broth, ensuring meat is mostly covered. Bring mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Reduce heat to low, cover pot, and let stew slowly cook for approximately 1 hour or until beef becomes tender.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Add orzo pasta to the pot, stirring to distribute evenly throughout the stew.
- Transfer pot to preheated oven and bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until orzo is cooked and liquid is mostly absorbed.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or grated mizithra cheese if desired, and serve hot.
Tips
- Choose the Right Cut: Use chuck roast or beef shoulder for maximum tenderness and flavor.
- Brown Meat Thoroughly: Take time to develop a deep golden crust on the beef cubes - this creates incredible depth of flavor.
- Low and Slow is the Key: Slow cooking allows the beef to become incredibly tender and lets the flavors meld beautifully.
- Don't Overcook the Orzo: Adding pasta towards the end prevents it from becoming mushy.
- Let it Rest: Allowing the dish to rest for 10 minutes after cooking helps the flavors settle and makes serving easier.
- Optional Enhancements: Consider adding a splash of red wine or a cinnamon stick during cooking for extra complexity.
- Cheese Matters: If possible, use authentic Greek mizithra cheese for a truly traditional garnish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 110mg
