Greek Stew Recipe
This hearty and comforting Greek Stew, a timeless favorite from the Canadian Living test kitchens, brings a taste of Greece to your table. Instead of stewing beef, which is often used, I find that cutting up a cross rib or blade roast yields delightful results. This stew is perfect for cozy winter nights and is incredibly easy to prepare, making it a great choice for beginner cooks. It’s a fantastic blend of flavors and textures, featuring tender beef, zesty tomatoes, and a sprinkle of feta cheese for an extra touch of Greek flair.
Ingredients
- 3 pounds stewing beef, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 ½ cups small onion, cut lengthwise into wedges (root end intact)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup tomatoes, chopped
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- ½ cup red wine vinegar
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup flour
- 1 cup water
- 1 green bell pepper, cut into strips
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- ½ cup fresh parsley, chopped
Directions
-
Prepare the Beef
Begin by cutting the stewing beef into 1-inch cubes, making sure to trim off any excess fat. Place the beef cubes in a Dutch oven, setting the stage for a delicious and hearty stew. -
Add Vegetables and Aromatics
Cut the small onions lengthwise into wedges, ensuring that the root end remains intact. Add these onion wedges to the Dutch oven along with the minced garlic and chopped tomatoes. This mix will infuse the stew with rich flavors as it cooks. -
Mix the Sauce
In a small bowl, combine the tomato paste, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to create a flavorful sauce that will be poured over the beef and vegetables. -
Combine and Cook
Pour the sauce mixture over the beef and vegetables in the Dutch oven, ensuring everything is well-coated. Cover the Dutch oven with its lid and transfer it to a preheated oven set at 350°F (175°C). Let it cook for about 3 hours, or until the beef is tender and easily shreds with a fork. -
Thicken the Stew
While the stew is cooking, prepare a thickening mixture by whisking the flour into the water. Take ½ cup of the hot liquid from the Dutch oven and whisk it into the flour mixture. This step will help to create a smooth, lump-free thickener for your stew. -
Incorporate the Thickener
Stir the flour mixture back into the Dutch oven, ensuring that it’s well incorporated into the stew. This will give your stew a rich, velvety texture. Add the green bell pepper strips and continue to cook, covered, for an additional 15 minutes, or until the stew has thickened to your desired consistency. -
Serve and Garnish
Once the stew has thickened and is bubbling with flavorful goodness, it’s time to serve. Ladle the stew into bowls and sprinkle each serving with crumbled feta cheese and freshly chopped parsley. This final touch adds a burst of flavor and a touch of color to your Greek Stew.
Tips
- Beef Selection: Using a cross rib or blade roast instead of traditional stewing beef can add a unique texture and flavor to the stew.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or potatoes for extra heartiness.
- Serving Suggestion: This stew pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a side of rice for a complete meal.
Enjoy this classic Greek Stew that combines tender beef, fresh vegetables, and the tang of feta cheese. It’s a simple yet flavorful dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Perfect for chilly nights, this stew brings warmth and satisfaction with every bite. 🌟🍲
