The aroma of simmering beef mixed with warm spices and tender pasta wafts through the air, instantly making your mouth water. Imagine sinking your spoon into a bowl of Giouvetsi Greek Beef Stew—each bite bursting with rich flavors and cozy textures that feel like a warm hug on a chilly day.
Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make it Together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- What is Giouvetsi Greek Beef Stew typically served with?
- Can I make Giouvetsi ahead of time?
- Is there a vegetarian version of Giouvetsi?
- 📖 Recipe Card
I remember the first time I made this dish—it was during a rainy weekend when nothing else felt right. My friends gathered around the table, and as soon as they took a bite, their eyes lit up like kids on Christmas morning. What better way to savor good company than with a steaming pot of comforting stew?
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This delightful Giouvetsi remains easy to prepare and can elevate your weeknight dinners.
- Its robust flavor profile captivates every palate while offering stunning visual appeal.
- Plus, it’s versatile enough for any occasion—casual or festive!
Sharing meals is all about creating memories; I remember my friends raving about how they had never tasted anything quite like it before.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Beef Chuck Roast: Choose well-marbled cuts for extra tenderness and flavor; you want melt-in-your-mouth goodness.
- Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for sautéing; it adds richness that pairs beautifully with the other ingredients.
- Onion: A large onion will do; sauté it until it becomes translucent and fragrant to build a flavorful base.
- Garlic Cloves: Fresh minced garlic adds a delightful depth; don’t skimp on the garlic—it’s essential!
- Tomato Paste: A couple of tablespoons help deepen the stew’s color and flavor; think of it as magic in a tube.
- Diced Tomatoes: Canned or fresh, this adds acidity and sweetness; be sure to drain if using canned for less liquid.
For the Seasoning:
- Oregano: Dried oregano is classic here; it brings that Mediterranean vibe straight to your kitchen.
- Cinnamon Stick: Just one stick gives an unexpected warmth; trust me—it’s what sets this dish apart!
- Bay Leaves: Don’t forget these aromatic leaves; they infuse subtle flavor as the stew cooks low and slow.
- Pasta (Orzo): Use small pasta shapes like orzo; they soak up all that delicious broth while adding heartiness.
- Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley at the end brightens up the dish visually and adds freshness.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
- First things first—gather all your ingredients and chop everything you’ll need. The prep work sets you up for cooking success later.
- In a large pot over medium heat, pour in olive oil until shimmering. Add chopped onions and cook until they’re soft and translucent—around 5-7 minutes. The aroma will start tickling your senses.
- Add beef chunks to the pot in batches to avoid overcrowding. Brown them on all sides for about 8-10 minutes; this step creates that beautiful caramelization which enhances flavor tremendously.
- Stir in minced garlic and tomato paste once the beef is browned. Cook for another minute until fragrant before tossing in diced tomatoes along with oregano, cinnamon stick, bay leaves, salt, and pepper.
- Pour in enough water (or beef broth) to cover everything comfortably. Bring it to a gentle boil before reducing heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 1-1.5 hours—patience is key here!
- Once your beef becomes tender, add orzo pasta directly into the pot along with more liquid if needed. Stir gently and cook uncovered until pasta is al dente—about 10-12 minutes.
- After plating up generous servings of this amazing Giouvetsi Greek Beef Stew, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for color and freshness. Serve hot alongside crusty bread or rice!
- This hearty dish brings people together around the table while providing warmth on cold days—a true representation of love served in a bowl!
You Must Know
- Giouvetsi Greek Beef Stew is a soul-warming dish that thrives on slow cooking.
- The blend of spices, tender beef, and aromatic pasta creates a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds.
- Serve it with crusty bread for the ultimate experience.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the beef first to lock in flavors, then sauté your aromatics while the meat simmers for efficiency.
Add Your Touch
Consider swapping beef for lamb or adding vegetables like carrots or peas for extra nutrition and flavor.
Storing & Reheating
Store Giouvetsi in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; reheat gently on the stove to maintain texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Cooking Giouvetsi slowly allows flavors to meld beautifully; don’t rush the process!
- Use quality beef for tenderness, and always taste before serving to adjust seasonings.
- A splash of red wine adds depth and complexity you won’t want to miss.
It was during a family gathering when I first served this Giouvetsi. Watching everyone savor each bite made my heart swell with joy and pride.
FAQ
What is Giouvetsi Greek Beef Stew typically served with?
Giouvetsi pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh Greek salad for balance.
Can I make Giouvetsi ahead of time?
Yes, it’s even better when made ahead; flavors deepen overnight in the fridge.
Is there a vegetarian version of Giouvetsi?
Absolutely! Substitute beef with mushrooms or lentils for a hearty vegetarian option.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Giouvetsi Greek Beef Stew
- Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Description
Giouvetsi Greek Beef Stew is a comforting, hearty dish featuring tender beef, fragrant spices, and orzo pasta. Perfect for gatherings or cozy family dinners.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 2 tsp dried oregano
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Gather and chop all ingredients.
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté onions until translucent (5-7 minutes).
- Add beef chunks in batches, browning them on all sides (8-10 minutes).
- Stir in minced garlic and tomato paste; cook until fragrant (about 1 minute).
- Add diced tomatoes, oregano, cinnamon stick, bay leaves, salt, and pepper.
- Pour in enough water to cover everything. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1-1.5 hours.
- Once beef is tender, stir in orzo pasta and additional liquid if needed; cook uncovered until pasta is al dente (10-12 minutes).
- Serve hot with freshly chopped parsley on top.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 90 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Greek
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. 350g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg