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Beef Giouvetsi (Braised Beef and Orzo)

Savor Beef Giouvetsi: Comforting Braised Beef and Orzo Delight

Enjoy the rich flavors of Beef Giouvetsi, a comforting braised beef and orzo dish that brings a taste of Greece to your table.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours
Slow Cooking Time 2 hours
Total Time 5 hours
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Greek
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Meat
  • 2 pounds Beef (Chuck or Lamb) Use lamb for a traditional twist.
  • to taste Salt Essential for seasoning.
  • to taste Pepper Essential for seasoning.
For the Aromatics
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Adds richness and flavor.
  • 1 medium Onion Diced, builds flavor base.
  • 1 large Carrot Shredded for sweetness and texture.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Minced for aromatic depth.
For the Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Tomato Paste Enhances tomato flavor.
  • 1 can Canned Tomatoes (crushed) Adds texture and acidity.
  • 1 cup Red Wine or Beef Broth Adds depth to the sauce.
  • 2 cups Beef Broth Builds the sauce base.
For the Spices
  • 1 stick Cinnamon Adds warm spice notes.
  • to taste Allspice Use in moderation, optional.
  • 1-2 Dried Bay Leaves Infuses aromatics.
For the Pasta
  • 1 cup Orzo Pasta Provides a hearty component.

Equipment

  • Large heavy-bottomed pan
  • Wooden spoon
  • Lid or foil

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Sear the Beef: Heat olive oil in a large pan, add seasoned beef, and brown for 2-4 minutes on each side.
  2. Sauté the Aromatics: Reduce heat, add diced onion, and sauté for 5 minutes. Add shredded carrot and cook for an additional minute.
  3. Add Garlic and Tomato Paste: Stir in minced garlic and tomato paste, cooking for about a minute until fragrant.
  4. Deglaze the Pan: Pour in red wine or beef broth, scraping up browned bits and simmer for 1-2 minutes.
  5. Build the Sauce: Add beef broth, crushed tomatoes, and spices. Return browned beef to the pan.
  6. Slow Cook to Tenderness: Cover the pan and simmer on low heat for 2-4 hours or in the oven at 275°F.
  7. Cook the Orzo: Fold in orzo pasta and simmer for 10-15 minutes until cooked al dente.
  8. Final Touches and Serve: Remove bay leaves and cinnamon stick, adjust seasoning, and serve warm garnished with parsley or feta.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 35gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 850mgFiber: 4gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 600IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 80mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Perfectly suited for meal prep and leftovers; flavors improve over time.

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