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Greek Stifado (Traditional Beef and Onion Stew)

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  • Author: Mia
  • Total Time: 2 hours
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Low Lactose

Description

Greek stifado is a rich, slow-simmered stew traditionally made with tender beef, sweet pearl onions, tomatoes, and warm spices. The dish develops deep flavor as it cooks and is often served with crusty bread, rice, or potatoes.

Ingredients

  • 2 lb beef chuck or stewing beef, cut into chunks
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 lb pearl onions, peeled
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup red wine
  • 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 4 whole cloves
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp sugar (optional)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
  2. Add the beef pieces and brown on all sides, working in batches if needed.
  3. Add the garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Pour in the red wine and scrape the bottom of the pot to release browned bits. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes.
  5. Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, vinegar, cinnamon stick, bay leaves, cloves, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
  6. Add the pearl onions and mix gently.
  7. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beef is tender and the sauce thickens.
  8. Taste and adjust seasoning. Add a small pinch of sugar if the sauce is too acidic.
  9. Remove the cinnamon stick and bay leaves before serving.
  10. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.

Notes

  • Traditionally served with crusty bread, rice, or roasted potatoes.
  • If pearl onions are unavailable, use small shallots or chopped onions.
  • The stew tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • The dish can also be made with rabbit instead of beef for a traditional variation.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stewing
  • Cuisine: Greek

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl
  • Calories: 420 kcal
  • Sugar: 7 g
  • Sodium: 720 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 6 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 14 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 42 g
  • Cholesterol: 110 mg

Find it online: https://homecooksimple.com/greek-stifado-traditional-beef-and-onion-stew/