How to Make Beef Stifado - A Step-by-Step Guide

Beef stifado is a traditional Greek stew that is bursting with rich, savory flavors. The dish is made with tender pieces of beef, onions, and a variety of aromatic herbs and spices. It is slow-cooked to perfection, allowing the flavors to meld together and create a deeply satisfying meal. Whether you are looking to impress friends and family with a delicious and hearty dish, or simply craving some comforting Greek cuisine, beef stifado is the perfect choice.

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Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil, divided
  • 2 pounds beef stew meat, cubed
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ cup red wine
  • ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1 teaspoon white sugar
  • 1 strip (4- by 1-inch) fresh orange zest
  • 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes
  • ½ cup water
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound pearl onions, peeled

Information

  • Prep Time: 45 mins
  • Cook Time: 2 hrs 10 mins
  • Total Time: 2 hrs 55 mins
  • Servings: 5
  • Yield: 5 servings

  • Heat 1/2 of the butter and 1/2 of the first tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown 1/2 of the beef cubes on all sides, and place into a large saucepan. Repeat with the remaining butter, olive oil, and beef. Stir the onions and garlic into the oil remaining in the skillet, and reduce heat to medium; cook and stir until the onion has softened and turned translucent, about 5 minutes. Pour in the red wine, and bring to a simmer, then scrape the onions into the saucepan with the beef.
  • Season the beef with salt, pepper, cinnamon, nutmeg, sugar, and orange zest. Pour in the diced tomatoes and water. Cover, and bring to a simmer over medium-high heat; then reduce heat to medium-low, and continue simmering 1 hour.
  • Meanwhile, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in the skillet over medium heat. Stir in the pearl onions, and cook until they are well browned, stirring frequently, about 20 minutes. After the beef has simmered for an hour, add the pearl onions, recover, and continue simmering 20 minutes.
  • Remove the lid, and simmer, uncovered until the stew has reduced and slightly thickened, about 10 minutes. Remove the orange zest before serving.
  • Nutrition

    544 cal.

    • Total Fat: 35g
    • Saturated Fat: 13g
    • Cholesterol: 112mg
    • Sodium: 715mg
    • Total Carbohydrate: 21g
    • Dietary Fiber: 2g
    • Total Sugars: 7g
    • Protein: 32g
    • Vitamin C: 16mg
    • Calcium: 79mg
    • Iron: 5mg
    • Potassium: 535mg