Description
Giouvetsi (Greek Beef Stew with Orzo) is a heartwarming dish that promises to delight your taste buds and fill your home with the inviting aromas of Mediterranean cuisine. Featuring tender beef simmered in a rich tomato sauce, this classic Greek recipe is paired with orzo pasta for a comforting and satisfying meal. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or enjoying a quiet night in, Giouvetsi offers an easy yet impressive option that everyone will love. Customize it with your favorite herbs and spices for a personal touch, making it perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 1/2 lb diced beef
- 1 large onion, diced
- 4 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup red grape juice
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 can crushed tomatoes (14 oz)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 2 cups chicken stock
- 2 cups orzo pasta
- Grated Kefalotyri or Parmesan cheese (for serving)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a heavy-bottomed pot, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. Add diced beef and brown on all sides. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, add remaining olive oil, diced onion, and garlic. Sauté until onions are translucent.
- Pour in red grape juice; cook until mostly evaporated. Stir in tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, nutmeg, bay leaves, and cinnamon stick. Add chicken stock and mix well.
- Return beef to the pot; bring to a boil. Lower heat, cover, and simmer for 45 minutes.
- After simmering, remove bay leaves and cinnamon stick. Stir in orzo pasta; cook for another 15-20 minutes until tender.
- Serve hot, garnished with grated cheese and seasoned to taste.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 65 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Greek
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 400g)
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 100mg