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Beef Giouvetsi (Braised Beef and Orzo) Recipe

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4 from 76 reviews

This traditional Greek Beef Giouvetsi is a hearty and comforting dish featuring tender braised beef cooked in a rich tomato and wine sauce, infused with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. Served with orzo pasta that soaks up the flavorful sauce, this one-pot meal offers a perfect balance of savory flavors and satisfying textures, ideal for family dinners or special occasions.

  • Total Time: 2 hours 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 pound beef chuck, cut into bite-sized cubes
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 1 carrot, shredded (optional)
  • 3 cloves garlic, chopped
  • 3 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1/4 cup red wine (or beef broth)
  • 3 cups beef broth (or chicken broth, or vegetable broth)
  • 1 (14.5 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon allspice
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 2 dried bay leaves
  • 1 cup orzo pasta (use gluten-free orzo for gluten-free option)

Instructions

  1. Heat the Olive Oil: In a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.
  2. Brown the Beef: Season the beef cubes with salt and pepper. Add them to the pot and sear until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the beef and set aside.
  3. Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, add diced onion and shredded carrot (if using). Cook over medium heat until softened, about 5 minutes. Then add the chopped garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  4. Add Tomato Paste and Deglaze: Stir in 3 tablespoons tomato paste, cooking for 2 minutes to deepen the flavor. Pour in 1/4 cup red wine (or beef broth) to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
  5. Add Broth and Tomatoes: Return the browned beef to the pot. Pour in 3 cups of beef broth and add the crushed tomatoes. Stir to combine all ingredients.
  6. Add Spices and Bay Leaves: Stir in 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon allspice, 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg, and add 2 dried bay leaves. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
  7. Braise the Beef: Cover the pot and reduce heat to low. Let the beef braise gently in the tomato sauce for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and flavorful.
  8. Add Orzo Pasta: Remove the bay leaves. Stir in 1 cup orzo pasta. Simmer uncovered, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is cooked and has absorbed much of the sauce, about 10-15 minutes.
  9. Adjust Seasoning and Serve: Taste the dish and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Serve the beef giouvetsi hot, garnished with grated cheese if desired.

Notes

  • You can substitute lamb for beef for a traditional Greek twist.
  • Using gluten-free orzo makes this recipe gluten-free.
  • If you prefer a thicker sauce, cook the orzo a bit longer until desired consistency is achieved.
  • Adding the shredded carrot is optional but adds sweetness and texture.
  • For a richer flavor, let the stew sit for a few hours or overnight and reheat before serving.
  • Author: Madelynn
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Braising
  • Cuisine: Greek
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Find it online: https://allyumcooks.com/beef-giouvetsi-braised-beef-and-orzo-recipe/