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Beef Giouvetsi (Greek Beef Orzo Pasta)

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This beef giouvetsi (Greek beef orzo pasta) is a cozy, slow-cooked dish featuring tender beef, rich tomato sauce, warm spices, and rice-shaped orzo pasta baked to perfection. A comforting and authentic Greek recipe that’s perfect for family dinners or special gatherings.

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs (900g) beef chuck or stew meat, cubed
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2–3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 3 cups beef broth
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 2 bay leaves
  • ¼ tsp ground allspice
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
  • 1 ½ cups orzo pasta
  • 1–1 ½ cups hot water or extra beef broth, as needed
  • ½ cup grated Kefalotyri cheese (or Parmesan, optional)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Brown the beef in batches, seasoning with salt and pepper. Remove and set aside.
  2. In the same pot, sauté chopped onion until soft. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute. Stir in tomato paste and cook briefly until fragrant.
  3. Add crushed tomatoes, beef broth, cinnamon stick, bay leaves, ground allspice, and sugar if using. Stir to combine.
  4. Return the beef to the pot. Bring to a simmer, then cover and cook on low heat for 1.5 to 2 hours until beef is tender.
  5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Stir in orzo pasta and add hot water or extra broth if needed. Transfer the pot to the oven, uncovered.
  6. Bake for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and the sauce has thickened.
  7. Remove from oven and discard the bay leaves and cinnamon stick. Sprinkle with grated cheese and fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

  • Substitute lamb for beef or make a vegetarian version with hearty vegetables.
  • Rice or pearl couscous can be used instead of orzo.
  • Tastes even better the next day as flavors develop.
  • Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://recipesbyliza.com/beef-giouvetsi-greek-beef-orzo-pasta/