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A Hearty, Flavorful Mediterranean Delight

A Hearty, Flavorful Mediterranean Delight for Cozy Nights

A Hearty, Flavorful Mediterranean Delight brings warmth and rich flavors to chilly evenings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

For the Stew
  • 2 lbs Beef Chunks of beef provide the main protein, contributing heartiness and rich flavor.
  • 2 cups Small Onions Sweetness and depth from onions; use yellow onions in a pinch.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Essential for aromatic flavor; if needed, garlic powder can stand in temporarily.
  • 1 cup Red Wine Adds depth and complexity; use beef broth with a splash of vinegar if you prefer to skip the alcohol.
  • 1 can Crushed Tomatoes Forms the base of the sauce, delivering acidity and richness.
  • 1 Cinnamon Stick Offers warm spices that enrich the dish; feel free to omit for a milder taste.
  • 1-2 Bay Leaves These add herbal notes to the stew; thyme makes a great fresh alternative.
  • 1 tsp Dried Oregano Provides an earthy flavor; fresh oregano gives a lighter taste and brightness.
  • 2 tbsp Red Wine Vinegar Balances sweetness, but lemon juice can substitute for acidity if preferred.
  • 1 tbsp Honey Adds a mild sweetness; sugar or agave syrup can be used as replacements.

Equipment

  • Dutch oven

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Heat a generous splash of olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the chunks of beef in batches, ensuring they have enough space for even browning. Sear the beef until golden brown on all sides, about 5–7 minutes. Remove the browned beef from the pot and set aside to keep warm.
  2. In the same pot, add a little more olive oil if needed, and toss in the small onions and minced garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the onions soften and turn translucent, filling your kitchen with delightful aromas.
  3. Pour in 1 cup of red wine, scraping the bottom of the pot to lift any browned bits that have stuck during cooking. Allow the wine to simmer for about 3–5 minutes, letting it reduce slightly while the liquid thickens and the flavors deepen.
  4. Incorporate the can of crushed tomatoes, the cinnamon stick, bay leaves, and dried oregano into the pot. Stir to combine all ingredients well and let the mixture come to a gentle simmer for about 2 minutes.
  5. Return the browned beef along with any accumulated juices back to the pot. Add the red wine vinegar and honey, stirring gently to mix everything together. Cover the pot and reduce the heat to low, allowing it to simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours.
  6. Once cooked, taste the Beef Stifado to adjust seasoning as needed. If the flavors seem a bit flat, add more salt or a touch of pepper. Remember to carefully remove the bay leaves and cinnamon stick before serving.
  7. Serve your Beef Stifado hot, accompanied by fluffy rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or crusty bread. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 35gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 11gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 3mg

Notes

This dish is all about those vibrant flavors working in harmony, so take a moment to savor the aroma! Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or freeze for future cozy nights.

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