This Beef Giouvetsi with Orzo is a tasty Greek dish that brings together tender beef, rich tomato sauce, and cozy orzo pasta. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl!
I love how easy it is to make! Just toss everything in one pot and let it simmer. Perfect for a family dinner or when friends pop over. It’s a true crowd-pleaser! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Chuck: This cut is perfect for slow cooking as it becomes tender and flavorful. If you can’t find chuck, you can use brisket or even stew meat. Just make sure it has some fat for flavor!
Orzo Pasta: Traditional for Giouvetsi, orzo resembles rice but is actually pasta. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, try quinoa or rice instead, but you’ll need to adjust cooking times.
Olive Oil: A staple in Greek cooking, it adds richness. If you prefer a different flavor, feel free to use avocado oil, or melted butter for a slightly different taste.
Red Wine: This adds depth to the sauce. If you’d rather avoid wine, substitute it with extra broth or a splash of vinegar to mimic the acidity. Alternatively, a grape juice can work in a pinch.
Fresh Parsley: It’s often used for garnish, adding a fresh touch. If you prefer, substitute with fresh cilantro or basil for a different flavor profile.
How Do I Get Tender Beef in This Dish?
The secret to tender beef in Giouvetsi lies in slow cooking. This allows the beef to break down and absorb flavors. Here’s how to ensure success:
- Start by searing the beef in batches. Browning adds flavor, so don’t skip this step!
- After browning, simmer the beef in the oven. This gentle cooking method keeps your meat juicy.
- Check for tenderness after 2 hours. If it’s not fork-tender yet, let it cook a bit longer.
- When adding orzo, ensure there’s enough liquid in the pot. Orzo needs it to cook properly, so adjust broth or water as necessary.
This technique makes all the difference for a flavorful and comforting dish. Enjoy your cooking! 🥘
Beef Giouvetsi with Orzo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 2 lbs (900g) beef chuck, cut into 1.5-inch cubes
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (14 oz/400g) crushed tomatoes
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 cup (200g) orzo pasta (kritharaki)
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup water (adjust as needed)
- 1/2 cup dry red wine (optional)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp allspice
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Garnishing:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Beef Giouvetsi takes around 20 minutes of prep time, and then about 2.5 to 3 hours of cooking time in the oven. You’ll spend time browning the beef and sautéing the veggies, then let the oven do the magic while you relax!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C). This will help the beef cook slowly and become tender.
2. Brown the Beef:
In a large heavy ovenproof pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes in batches, making sure to brown them on all sides. Once browned, remove the beef from the pot and set it aside. This step adds a rich flavor!
3. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
Reduce the heat to medium and add the chopped onion to the pot. Sauté until it’s soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it’s fragrant — this step will make your kitchen smell wonderful!
4. Add the Tomato Mixture:
Stir in the tomato paste and cook it for 1-2 minutes to deepen the flavor. Then add the crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, cinnamon, allspice, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together well!
5. Combine Ingredients:
Return the browned beef to the pot. Pour in the red wine (if you’re using it), beef broth, and water. Bring the mixture to a simmer to blend all those delicious flavors.
6. Braise in the Oven:
Cover the pot with a lid and place it in the preheated oven. Braise the beef for about 2 to 2.5 hours, or until the meat is incredibly tender. Slow cooking is the key here!
7. Add the Orzo:
Remove the pot from the oven and take off the lid. Stir in the orzo pasta. If the liquid level looks low, add a little more water or broth. The orzo needs plenty of liquid to cook properly!
8. Cook the Orzo:
Return the pot uncovered to the oven for another 30 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the flavorful sauce.
9. Garnish and Serve:
Once done, remove the pot from the oven and let it stand for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor!
10. Enjoy Your Meal:
Serve the Beef Giouvetsi warm, alongside some crusty bread to soak up that delicious sauce. Your comforting Greek dinner is ready to be enjoyed!
This dish is not only hearty but also packed with flavors that meld together beautifully. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner night!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Beef?
Absolutely! While beef chuck is ideal for its tenderness and flavor when cooked slowly, you can also use brisket or even round cuts. Just be mindful that not all cuts may give the same richness and might require slight adjustments in cooking time.
What If I Don’t Have Orzo?
If you can’t find orzo, try using other small pasta shapes like ditalini or even rice. Just be aware that rice may require different cooking times and more liquid, so adjust the broth and water accordingly.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed to keep it moist.
Can I Freeze This Dish?
Yes, Beef Giouvetsi freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.