Roast Ala "Grecque"
Roast Ala Grecque offers tender beef slow-cooked with sweet onions and smoky paprika, creating rich flavors perfect for hearty family dinners or special gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut off root ends and a thin slice from stem ends of onions. Peel and rinse; slice thinly and set aside.
- Wipe meat with a damp cloth.
- Coat the meat evenly with a mixture of paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Heat fat in a saucepan or Dutch oven with a tight-fitting cover.
- Brown the meat on all sides slowly over medium heat.
- Lift the meat out of the pan.
- Layer the sliced onions into the pot and place the meat over the onions. Cover tightly.
- Cook over low heat for about 3 hours or until the meat is tender.
- Serve with the gravy over rice or mashed potatoes.
Tips & Substitutions
For optimal flavor, marinate the beef overnight after coating it with paprika, salt, and pepper. You can substitute the beef with pork or lamb if desired. If you prefer a spicier kick, add crushed red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix. Ensure to brown the meat slowly for better caramelization, which enhances the dish's depth. This technique is often used in Mediterranean recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the roast with the rich onion gravy over fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting meal. To add freshness, consider a side of Chick Pea, Tomato And Green Bell Pepper Salad. This dish also pairs beautifully with Greek Fried Meatballs(Keftethes) for a robust family dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the roast and onions in a covered dish in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes. Alternatively, for quick reheating, use a microwave, ensuring even heating by stirring occasionally.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Roast Ala "Grecque" contains roughly 211 calories, with 16g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (34% of the Daily Value) and protein (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 914mg per serving (40% 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 recipe?
Yes, you can use various cuts such as blade, round, rump, or chuck. Each will yield a slightly different texture and flavor, but they all work well in this slow-cooked dish. Just be mindful of cooking times, as more tender cuts may require less time to become tender.
What can I serve with Roast Ala 'Grecque'?
In addition to rice or mashed potatoes, consider serving with crusty bread to soak up the gravy. A fresh salad or steamed vegetables can add a nice contrast. Browse more Mediterranean recipes for additional ideas that complement the rich flavors of the roast.
How do I know when the meat is done cooking?
The meat is done when it becomes fork-tender, typically after about 3 hours of low heat cooking. You can check doneness by inserting a fork; it should easily pull apart. If you have a meat thermometer, aim for an internal temperature of at least 190°F for optimal tenderness.
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).