If you’ve never tried Beef Stifado, you’re in for a real treat. This rich, slow-cooked Greek beef stew is packed with deep flavors—tender beef, caramelized pearl onions, warm cinnamon, and a touch of red wine or vinegar for that perfect balance. It’s comfort food at its finest, with a uniquely Greek twist. Serve it over mashed potatoes, pasta, or crusty bread to soak up every bit of that delicious sauce!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Deep, rich flavors – The slow-cooked spices and wine make it unforgettable.
Perfect for cold weather – Warm and cozy, like a hug in a bowl.
Even better the next day – The flavors meld beautifully overnight.

Ingredients

(A quick preview—find the full ingredient list below!)

Beef chuck or stew meat
Pearl onions
Garlic, cinnamon, bay leaves
Red wine or red wine vinegar
Tomatoes and beef broth

Directions

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Heat olive oil in a large pot and sear the beef until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Onions

In the same pot, add the pearl onions and cook until caramelized, then stir in the garlic and spices.

Step 3: Deglaze and Simmer

Pour in red wine (or vinegar) to deglaze the pan, then add the tomatoes and beef broth. Return the beef to the pot.

Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover and let it simmer for at least 1.5 to 2 hours until the beef is tender and the sauce is rich.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Ladle over mashed potatoes, pasta, or rice, and enjoy every bite!

Expert Tips and Tricks

Use pearl onions for authentic flavor – If you can’t find them, shallots work too.
Low and slow is key – The longer it cooks, the better the flavors develop.
Cinnamon adds warmth – It’s the secret to that signature Greek taste.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

Make it with lamb – Swap beef for lamb for a different take.
Add a touch of honey – A little sweetness balances the acidity.
Use white wine – Some regions of Greece use white instead of red.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Over pasta or mashed potatoes – The sauce is too good to waste!
With crusty bread – Perfect for dipping.
Paired with a Greek salad – A fresh, crisp contrast to the rich stew.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days—it tastes even better the next day!
Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water if needed.

FAQs

Can I make Beef Stifado in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the beef first, then cook on low for 6-8 hours.
What’s the best cut of beef for Stifado?
Chuck roast or stewing beef works best.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! It tastes even better the next day.
Is Stifado spicy?
No, it’s more warm and aromatic than spicy.

Conclusion

Beef Stifado is a rich, hearty, and flavorful Greek stew that’s perfect for cozy nights. Serve it with your favorite starch and let the slow-cooked flavors transport you straight to Greece!

Beef Stifado – A Hearty Greek Beef Stew You’ll Love

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A rich and hearty Greek beef stew made with slow-cooked beef, caramelized pearl onions, and warm spices like cinnamon and bay leaves. The flavors develop beautifully over time, making it even better the next day.

Author: Touria Elkoudssi
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop (or Slow Cooker)
Cuisine: Greek
Diet: Gluten Free

Instructions

Brown the Beef – Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Sear the beef in batches until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
Sauté the Onions – In the same pot, add pearl onions and cook until golden. Stir in the garlic, cinnamon stick, bay leaves, oregano, allspice, and cloves.
Deglaze and Simmer – Pour in the red wine (or vinegar) and let it simmer for a minute. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and beef broth. Return the beef to the pot.
Slow Cook – Cover and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beef is tender and the sauce thickens.
Serve and Enjoy – Remove bay leaves and cinnamon stick. Serve over mashed potatoes, pasta, or crusty bread.