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STIFADO: Rustic Greek Beef Stew
marys_kouzina
225m
STIFADO: Rustic Greek Beef Stew
Author:
marys_kouzina
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STIFADO: Rustic Greek Beef Stew

STIFADO is an authentic Greek beef stew cooked with sweet shallots in an aromatic red sauce. This beloved dish is a staple on almost every specials board at Greek tavernas. Gather at the table, break crispy fresh bread, and share it with your loved ones – “kai vouta!” (dive in).
#Beef
#Stew
#Greek Food
#Traditional
#Dinner
#Comfort Food
Sizzling Beef Browning
Sizzling Beef Browning

Recipe Information

30m
Prep Time
3h 15m
Cook Time
3h 45m
Total Time
6
Servings
Medium
Greek
English
Nutrition (per serving)
500
Calories
40g
Protein
30g
Carbs
25g
Fat
Shallots and Aromatics Sautéing
Shallots and Aromatics Sautéing

Ingredients

  • Beef (chuck or stewing beef), cut into 5cm pieces
    (Pat dry before searing)

    1.5 kg
  • Small shallots, peeled and left whole
    (Approximately 25-30 shallots)

    1 kg
  • Olive oil
    (Divided)

    1 cup
  • Garlic, minced

    4 cloves
  • Dry red wine
    (Like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)

    1 cup
  • Tomato paste

    2 tablespoons
  • Crushed tomatoes (or passata)

    400 g can
  • Beef broth or water

    2 cups
  • Bay leaves

    2 pieces
  • Cinnamon stick

    1 piece
  • Whole cloves

    4 pieces
  • Red wine vinegar

    2 tablespoons
  • Salt

    to taste
  • Black pepper

    to taste
Servings: 6
💡 Tip: Check off ingredients as you add them to keep track of your progress!
Stew Simmering in the Pot
Stew Simmering in the Pot

Instructions

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  • 1

    Heat half of the olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the beef in batches until browned on all sides. Remove the beef and set aside.
    Step 1 visual
    Preview
    15m
    Step 1 visual
    Preview
    Heat half of the olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the beef in batches until browned on all sides. Remove the beef and set aside.
    15m

    Do not overcrowd the pot to ensure proper browning, not steaming.
  • 2

    Add the remaining olive oil to the pot. Add the peeled whole shallots and sauté for 5-7 minutes until they start to soften and turn golden. Add the minced garlic and tomato paste, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
    Step 2 visual
    Preview
    8m
    Step 2 visual
    Preview
    Add the remaining olive oil to the pot. Add the peeled whole shallots and sauté for 5-7 minutes until they start to soften and turn golden. Add the minced garlic and tomato paste, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
    8m

    The shallots will release their sweetness, contributing to the stew's rich flavor.
  • 3

    Pour in the red wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Bring to a simmer and let it reduce slightly for 2-3 minutes.
    Step 3 visual
    Preview
    3m
    Step 3 visual
    Preview
    Pour in the red wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Bring to a simmer and let it reduce slightly for 2-3 minutes.
    3m

    This step, called deglazing, adds depth of flavor from the caramelized bits.
  • 4

    Return the beef to the pot. Add the crushed tomatoes, beef broth/water, bay leaves, cinnamon stick, whole cloves, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
    Step 4 visual
    Preview
    5m
    Step 4 visual
    Preview
    Return the beef to the pot. Add the crushed tomatoes, beef broth/water, bay leaves, cinnamon stick, whole cloves, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
    5m

    Ensure all ingredients are well combined before simmering.
  • 5

    Bring the stew to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot tightly, and cook for 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
    Step 5 visual
    Preview
    3h
    Step 5 visual
    Preview
    Bring the stew to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot tightly, and cook for 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
    3h

    Slow cooking is key for a tender, flavorful stew. Resist the urge to lift the lid too often.
  • 6

    Remove the bay leaves, cinnamon stick, and cloves before serving. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot with crispy bread, rice, or pasta.
    Step 6 visual
    Preview
    5m
    Step 6 visual
    Preview
    Remove the bay leaves, cinnamon stick, and cloves before serving. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot with crispy bread, rice, or pasta.
    5m

    Serve with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for color and freshness.
💡 Tip: Click on any step to mark it as completed and track your cooking progress!

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