Beef Giouvetsi with Orzo is a cozy dish that combines tender beef and small pasta in a flavorful tomato sauce. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl!
This meal is perfect for gatherings or a comfy dinner at home. I love how the orzo soaks up all the juicy goodness—who could resist seconds? 😄
Making it is super easy! Just brown the beef, add some veggies and sauce, and let it all simmer together. It’s a simple way to win over anyone at the table!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Stew Meat: I love using chuck roast for its rich flavor. You can substitute with brisket or even lean cuts like sirloin if you’re looking for something less fatty.
Olive Oil: A must for sautéing, but you can swap it for vegetable oil or even butter for a different taste.
Onion: Yellow onions are sweet and perfect for this dish. Red or white onions can serve as alternatives, but they might change the flavor slightly.
Orzo Pasta: While orzo is traditional, try using any small pasta shape like ditalini, couscous, or even rice if you have it handy.
Red Wine: If you want to skip the wine, use extra beef broth. A splash of vinegar can also add a nice acidity.
How Do I Get Perfectly Tender Beef?
To achieve perfectly tender beef in Giouvetsi, it’s crucial to simmer it low and slow. This breaks down the tough fibers and makes the meat melt in your mouth.
- Start by browning the beef well—this enhances the flavor.
- Once seared, cook on low heat for 1.5 to 2 hours. Stir occasionally and ensure it doesn’t dry out.
- The longer you simmer, the more tender it gets. Just make sure to keep it covered.
Follow these tips, and your Beef Giouvetsi will be a comforting dish that delights everyone at the table! Enjoy! 🌟
How to Make Beef Giouvetsi with Orzo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1.5 lbs (700 g) beef stew meat, cut into chunks
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2-3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (14 oz / 400 g) diced tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 cup red wine (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Crumble feta cheese (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish needs about 15 minutes for preparation and 1.5 to 2 hours for cooking. So, plan for around 2 hours total, and then enjoy the wonderful aroma of your Beef Giouvetsi filling the kitchen while you wait!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Oil and Brown the Beef:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season the beef chunks with salt and pepper. Once the oil is hot, add the beef in batches. Brown it on all sides to develop a nice crust. Once browned, remove the beef from the pot and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same pot, add the finely chopped onion. Sauté for about 5 minutes or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring to avoid burning.
3. Add Tomato and Seasonings:
Stir in the tomato paste and let it cook for about 2 minutes. This helps deepen the flavor of the tomato. Then, return the browned beef to the pot. Add the diced tomatoes, dried oregano, ground cinnamon (if using), and red wine (if using). Give everything a good stir to combine.
4. Simmer the Beef:
Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer gently for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender. Stir occasionally to keep it from sticking.
5. Cook the Orzo:
After the beef is tender, add the orzo pasta to the pot and stir well. Cook uncovered for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally until the orzo is tender and has absorbed some of the sauce.
6. Adjust and Serve:
Before serving, taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve the Beef Giouvetsi hot in bowls, garnished with fresh chopped parsley and a sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese on top.
Enjoy this hearty Greek classic with family and friends, savoring the blend of tender beef, savory tomato sauce, and comforting orzo! 🍽️
Can I Substitute Beef with Another Meat?
Yes! While beef is traditional, you can also use lamb for a different flavor. Chicken can work too, but you should adjust the cooking time since it cooks faster.
What If I Don’t Have Orzo Pasta?
No problem! You can substitute orzo with any small pasta shape, such as ditalini, or even couscous. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose.
Can I Make Beef Giouvetsi Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it up to a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator once it’s cooled. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a bit of water or broth if needed to loosen it up.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in the microwave or on the stove, stirring occasionally for even heating.