Name: Beef Giouvetsi: A Traditional Greek Beef and Orzo Stew Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h 10 min
Total time: 1 h 25 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 1 pound beef stew meat, cubed; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 2 cups beef broth; 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon; Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley, for garnish

Description

Beef Giouvetsi is a traditional Greek stew featuring tender beef simmered in a fragrant tomato and beef broth sauce, enriched with cinnamon and oregano, and finished with orzo pasta that soaks up all the delicious flavors. This comforting one-pot meal is garnished with fresh parsley, making it a perfect hearty dinner that combines rich Mediterranean tastes with wholesome ingredients.

Ingredients

Scale

Meat and Vegetables

1 pound beef stew meat, cubed
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced

Liquids and Canned Goods

1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
2 cups beef broth

Grains and Pasta

1 1/2 cups orzo pasta

Oils and Seasonings

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, for garnish

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Instructions

Brown the Beef: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the cubed beef and brown on all sides, about 8 minutes. This step locks in the beef’s flavor. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.
Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until softened and fragrant, about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
Simmer Stew: Add the diced tomatoes, beef broth, dried oregano, cinnamon, and the browned beef back into the pot. Stir to combine, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for 1 hour, allowing the beef to become tender and the flavors to meld together perfectly.
Cook Orzo: After the beef is tender, stir in the orzo pasta. Continue cooking uncovered for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and has absorbed the sauce, thickening it.
Season and Garnish: Taste and season the stew with salt and pepper as desired. Serve hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.

Notes

For a richer flavor, use homemade beef broth if available.
If you prefer a thicker stew, allow it to simmer a bit longer after adding the orzo.
You can substitute the beef stew meat with lamb for a different variation.
Ensure to stir frequently once orzo is added to prevent sticking.
Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheat well.