Traditional Greek Giouvetsi
A staple of Greek home cooking, Giouvetsi is a one-pot meal full of rich Mediterranean flavors. This dish, often served at Sunday gatherings, features beef simmered in a spiced tomato sauce with orzo pasta, creating a comforting and filling meal. While it can be made with lamb or chicken, the beef version is the most common. Serve it with a sprinkle of grated cheese and a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
1 ½ lb diced beef
1 large onion, diced
4 garlic cloves, finely chopped
½ cup red wine
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
2 bay leaves
1 cinnamon stick
2 cups chicken stock
2 cups orzo
½ cup grated Kefalotyri or Parmesan
Salt and black pepper to taste
Directions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a Dutch oven. Brown beef for 8-10 minutes. Remove and set aside.
2. Add remaining olive oil, onion, and garlic. Cook for 4-5 minutes until fragrant.
3. Deglaze with red wine and let it reduce for 1-2 minutes.
4. Stir in tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, nutmeg, bay leaves, and cinnamon stick.
5. Pour in chicken stock, add the beef, and bring to a simmer.
6. Cover and cook on low for 45 minutes. Remove bay leaves and cinnamon stick.
7. Add orzo and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. Add stock if needed.
8. Stir in grated cheese and season with salt and pepper before serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Kcal: 549
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