Indulge in the rich, comforting flavors of Greece with our mouthwatering Greek Beef Stew with Orzo Pasta Youvetsi! This hearty dish combines tender beef, aromatic spices, and perfectly cooked orzo pasta in a savory broth that will transport your taste buds straight to the Mediterranean. Whether you're looking for a cozy family dinner or an impressive meal to share with friends, this recipe is sure to delight. Ready to impress your loved ones with a dish that's as delicious as it is easy to make? Keep reading to discover the secrets to crafting this unforgettable stew!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 2 hrs
Total Time: 2 hrs 20 mins
Cuisine: Greek
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef, cut into cubes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing all your ingredients. Cut the beef into 1-inch cubes, chop the onion, and mince the garlic cloves. This will help streamline the cooking process.
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the beef cubes in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. Sear the beef on all sides until browned, approximately 5-7 minutes. Remove the beef and set aside.
- In the same pot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Return the browned beef to the pot and add the can of diced tomatoes (including the juice), beef broth, dried oregano, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about
- 5 hours, or until the beef is tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- After
- 5 hours, taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Add the orzo pasta to the pot, stirring it in gently.
- Continue to simmer the stew uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the orzo is cooked al dente and has absorbed some of the broth. Stir occasionally to prevent the orzo from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
- Once the orzo is cooked, remove the pot from heat and let it sit for a few minutes to thicken slightly. Serve the Greek beef stew warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
- Enjoy your hearty Greek Beef Stew with Orzo Pasta Youvetsi, perfect for a cozy meal with family and friends!
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To make the cooking process smoother, chop your vegetables and cut the beef into cubes ahead of time. This will save you valuable time when you start cooking.
- Sear the Beef: Don't rush the searing process! Browning the beef cubes in batches enhances the flavor and creates a delicious crust that adds depth to the stew.
- Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality beef broth and fresh spices to elevate the taste of your stew. Fresh herbs as a garnish can also add a burst of flavor.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste your stew before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed. A little extra salt or pepper can make a big difference in flavor.
- Cook Orzo Separately: If you prefer, you can cook the orzo separately and add it to each serving. This prevents the pasta from absorbing too much broth and becoming mushy.
- Let It Rest: Allow the stew to sit for a few minutes after cooking. This helps the flavors meld together and thickens the broth slightly for a more satisfying texture.
- Garnish for Presentation: Consider garnishing your stew with fresh parsley or oregano before serving for an appealing presentation that will impress your guests.
- Perfect for Leftovers: This stew tastes even better the next day! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat for a quick, satisfying meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 95mg
