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Traditional Greek Stifado

Traditional Greek Stifado

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Traditional Greek Stifado is a hearty and flavorful beef stew that brings the essence of Greek cuisine right to your dining table. This comforting dish features tender chunks of beef simmered with sweet shallots in a rich tomato sauce, infused with aromatic spices like cinnamon and cloves. Perfect for cozy dinners or family gatherings, this stifado not only warms the heart but also delights the palate. With easy preparation steps and adaptable ingredients, you can create an authentic Greek experience at home.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 24 peeled shallots (or pearl onions)
  • pounds beef chuck, cut into 34 inch pieces
  • ½ cup olive oil
  • 46 minced garlic cloves
  • 2 tablespoons red or balsamic apple vinegar
  • 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano or basil
  • ½ teaspoon sugar
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 46 whole peppercorns
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 23 whole cloves
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste
  • 1½ cups water
  • Optional pinch of red pepper flakes

Instructions

  1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté shallots for about 5–10 minutes until golden.
  2. Add beef chunks in batches, browning them on all sides.
  3. Stir in minced garlic and tomato paste; cook briefly until fragrant.
  4. Combine crushed tomatoes, vinegar, herbs, bay leaves, peppercorns, cinnamon stick, cloves, water, salt, and pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  5. Cover and cook for about 1 hour and 15 minutes until beef is tender.
  6. Fold in sautéed shallots and simmer for an additional 30 minutes before serving.

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