Experience the Hearty Comfort of Greek Stifádo
Indulge in the rich, slow-cooked flavors of Beef and Onion Stew – Stifádo, a Greek classic that warms both heart and soul.
Tender beef is simmered with sweet onions, aromatic cinnamon, and a savory tomato-based sauce, creating a dish that’s as comforting as it is flavorful.
Perfect for family dinners or special gatherings, Stifádo pairs beautifully with crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or a side of rice. Its jam-like sauce, infused with the tangy depth of red wine vinegar, makes every bite a culinary delight.
Easy to prepare yet bursting with traditional Greek flavors, this stew is a must-try for lovers of hearty Mediterranean dishes.
⦁ 3 tbsp vegetable oil
⦁ 2 lbs beef chuck or top round, cut into 2-inch cubes
⦁ 3 cups thinly sliced onions
⦁ 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
⦁ 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
⦁ 1 (10½ oz) can beef broth
⦁ 1 cup water
⦁ ⅓ cup red wine vinegar
⦁ ½ tsp salt
⦁ ⅛ tsp pepper
⦁ ¼ tsp cinnamon
⦁ 1 bay leaf
1. Brown the Beef: Heat oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add beef cubes and brown on all sides. Remove meat and set aside.
2. Cook the Onions: Add onions and garlic to the same pot and cook until lightly browned.
3. Combine Ingredients: Return beef to the pot. Stir in tomato paste, beef broth, water, vinegar, salt, pepper, cinnamon, and bay leaf. Mix well.
4. Simmer to Perfection: Cover and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 3–4 hours, stirring every 15 minutes to prevent sticking. Cook until the beef is tender and the sauce thickens to a jam-like consistency.
5. Serve: Remove bay leaf and ladle into bowls. Serve with crusty bread or creamy polenta for a hearty meal.
🛒 Choosing Ingredients:
✔ Use well-marbled beef – Chuck or stewing beef works best for tenderness.
✔ Pearl onions are a must – They add natural sweetness and depth of flavor.
✔ Cinnamon, cloves & bay leaves – Essential for authentic Greek warmth.
✔ Red wine & vinegar – Adds richness and balances the sweetness of the onions.
👩🍳 Preparation:
✔ Sear the beef first – Locks in juices and enhances flavor.
✔ Blanch & peel pearl onions – Makes them sweeter and easier to eat.
✔ Deglaze the pot with wine – Lifts all the caramelized bits for deeper flavor.
✔ Let the spices infuse the sauce – Simmering brings out their full aroma.
🍳 Cooking:
✔ Low & slow is key – Simmer for 3-4 hours for melt-in-your-mouth beef.
✔ Don’t rush the onions – Let them caramelize slightly for extra sweetness.
✔ Check the liquid levels – Add broth or water if it reduces too much.
✔ Cook uncovered at the end – Helps the sauce thicken naturally.
📦 Storage:
✔ Store in an airtight container in the fridge – Tastes even better the next day!
✔ Freeze for up to 3 months – Defrost overnight before reheating.
✔ Reheat gently on the stove – Avoid boiling to keep the beef tender.
✔ Add a splash of broth when reheating – Keeps the sauce silky.
🍽 Serving:
✔ Pair with orzo, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread – Perfect for soaking up the sauce.
✔ Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving – Adds color and freshness.
✔ Serve with a bold red wine – Complements the rich, spiced stew.
✔ Enjoy with a side of Greek salad – Balances the hearty flavors.