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Giouvetsi (Greek Beef Stew with Orzo)

Giouvetsi: Heartwarming Greek Beef Stew with Orzo Delight

Experience the comforting flavors of Giouvetsi, a heartwarming Greek Beef Stew with Orzo, perfect for family dinners.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Greek
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Stew
  • 1 tablespoon Olive Oil Preferably use high-quality extra virgin olive oil.
  • 2 pounds Diced Beef Ideal cuts include chuck or stew meat.
  • 1 medium Onion Can use yellow, white, red onions, or shallots.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Cloves Adjust according to personal preference.
  • 1 cup Red Wine Substitute with beef or chicken broth if avoiding wine.
  • 2 tablespoons Tomato Paste Important for building the stew's base.
  • 28 ounce Crushed Tomatoes Fresh plum tomatoes can also be used.
  • 1 Cinnamon Stick Consider adding fresh basil or parsley for freshness.
  • 2 leaves Bay Leaves
  • 1/4 teaspoon Nutmeg
  • 2 cups Chicken Stock Can replace with beef stock if preferred.
For the Orzo
  • 1 cup Orzo Only requires 15 minutes to cook in the sauce.
For the Topping
  • 1/2 cup Grated Kefalotyri or Parmesan Cheese Kefalotyri is preferred.

Equipment

  • Dutch oven

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced beef, seasoning it gently with salt. Brown the beef for 8 to 10 minutes, turning occasionally until it develops a rich, deep color. Once done, remove the beef from the pot and set it aside.
  2. Lower the heat to medium and add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the pot. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing for about 4 to 5 minutes until the onion is translucent and garlic is fragrant.
  3. Pour in the red wine, stirring well to deglaze the pot. Simmer for 1 to 2 minutes until most of the wine evaporates.
  4. Stir in the tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, nutmeg, bay leaves, and cinnamon stick. Pour in the chicken stock and return the browned beef to the pot, bringing to a gentle boil.
  5. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let simmer for about 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  6. Remove the bay leaves and cinnamon stick. Stir in the orzo, cooking uncovered for an additional 15 to 20 minutes until tender.
  7. Stir in the grated Kefalotyri or Parmesan cheese, adjusting seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve hot, topped with extra cheese if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 16gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 3gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 400IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Giouvetsi tastes even better the next day! Prepare in advance and add orzo just before serving for best texture.

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