Greek Beef Stew
A hearty Greek beef stew featuring tender beef, white onions, and rich flavors of wine, tomato, and spices, perfect for comforting family dinners or special gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Blanch the white onions in boiling water for 1 minute, then drain and peel.
- In a kettle, melt sweet butter over moderate heat.
- Add the beef chuck pieces and toss to coat with butter without browning.
- Add red wine, beef broth, tomato paste, red wine vinegar, brown sugar, ground cumin, minced garlic, ground allspice, bay leaf, and season with salt and pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 1 hour and 30 minutes.
- Add the peeled onions to the stew.
- Continue simmering, covered, for an additional 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider marinating the beef in red wine and spices overnight before cooking. If you don't have sweet butter, unsalted butter or olive oil can be used as a substitute. You can also add vegetables like carrots or potatoes for additional texture. For a Mediterranean twist, try incorporating olives or capers.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Greek Beef Stew with crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a satisfying meal. A side of roasted vegetables or a fresh Greek salad pairs wonderfully with it. For a complete Mediterranean experience, consider serving alongside Dolma or a slice of Pasticcio.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the stew on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just thaw it in the fridge before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Greek Beef Stew contains roughly 1925 calories, with 99g protein, 274g carbohydrates, and 81g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (306% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and protein (198% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 516mg per serving (22% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cut of beef for this stew?
Yes, you can use other cuts like brisket or round, but keep in mind that these may require different cooking times to achieve tenderness. Chuck is preferred for its rich flavor and ability to become tender after long cooking.
What can I serve with Greek Beef Stew?
This stew is versatile; consider pairing it with a side of couscous or orzo for a light touch. A simple side salad with feta cheese and olives also complements the dish nicely, adding freshness and acidity.
How can I thicken the stew if it's too watery?
If your stew turns out thin, you can thicken it by adding a slurry of cornstarch and water, simmering until it reaches your desired consistency. Alternatively, removing the lid and simmering it longer can help reduce the liquid naturally.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).