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Greek Manestra Recipe

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4.9 from 89 reviews

Greek Manestra is a comforting and hearty stew featuring tender beef cubes, orzo pasta, and a rich tomato-based sauce seasoned with aromatic cinnamon and bay leaf. This traditional Greek dish is perfect for a cozy meal, combining the warmth of slow-simmered beef with the delicate texture of orzo, garnished with fresh parsley for a burst of flavor.

Ingredients

Beef and Aromatics

  • 1 lb beef stew meat, cubed
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil

Tomato Base

  • 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste

Grains and Liquids

  • 1 cup orzo
  • 2 ½ cups water or beef broth

Spices and Garnish

  • 1 cinnamon stick or ¼ tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Brown the Beef: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat and brown the beef cubes on all sides until they develop a deep, rich color. This step seals in the flavor and begins the cooking process for tender meat.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot with the browned beef. Sauté until the onions are soft and translucent, infusing the dish with their aromatic flavors.
  3. Add Tomato Paste and Liquids: Stir in the tomato paste and cook it for about 1 minute to deepen its flavor. Then add the crushed tomatoes and beef broth or water, mixing well to combine all ingredients.
  4. Season and Simmer: Season the mixture with the cinnamon stick or ground cinnamon, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Allow the stew to simmer gently for 25 to 30 minutes, letting the flavors meld and the beef become tender.
  5. Cook the Orzo: Stir in the orzo pasta and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. Add more broth or water if the mixture becomes too thick during cooking.
  6. Finish and Garnish: Once the orzo is tender and the sauce has thickened to your liking, remove the pot from heat. Let the stew sit for a few minutes to settle, then garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

  • Use beef broth instead of water for a richer, more flavorful dish.
  • Adjust the cinnamon quantity based on your preference; it should add warmth without overpowering the dish.
  • If you prefer a thicker stew, reduce the broth slightly or cook a bit longer after adding the orzo.
  • For a vegetarian version, substitute beef with mushrooms and use vegetable broth.
  • Manestra is traditionally served with crusty bread or a simple green salad.

Find it online: https://alinacooks.com/greek-manestra-recipe/