Greek-Style Beef Stew (Stifado)

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Greek-Style Beef Stew (Stifado).

1. Step 1

   Start by gathering all your ingredients and setting up a clean, organized workspace to make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

2. Step 2

   In a mixing bowl, generously season your beef cubes with black pepper and kosher salt, then cover them and let them chill in the refrigerator for up to a day.

3. Step 3

   This step allows the flavors to really penetrate the meat.

4. Step 4

   Next, take your shallots and trim the tops, leaving the root ends intact, then peel away the skins and set them aside.

5. Step 5

   Now, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a heavy skillet over high heat.

6. Step 6

   Once the oil is shimmering, add half of the seasoned beef cubes.

7. Step 7

   Sear them until they develop a beautiful brown crust, which should take about 4 to 6 minutes on each side.

8. Step 8

   Once browned, transfer the beef to a plate and repeat the process with the remaining cubes.

9. Step 9

   After all the beef is seared, turn off the heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet.

10. Step 10

    Toss in the shallots and let the skillet cool for a couple of minutes.

11. Step 11

    Then, turn the heat back on to medium and sauté the shallots until they are golden brown, which should take about 2 to 4 minutes.

12. Step 12

    Once done, remove the shallots and set them aside.

13. Step 13

    In the same skillet, add the last tablespoon of olive oil along with diced onion, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt.

14. Step 14

    Cook this mixture for about a minute, stirring frequently to release those wonderful aromas.

15. Step 15

    Next, stir in the tomato paste and let it cook until it’s nicely toasted, which will take around 2 minutes.

16. Step 16

    Now it’s time to add some depth to your stew! Pour in the red wine vinegar and white wine, bringing the mixture to a boil while scraping up any delicious browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan.

17. Step 17

    Increase the heat to medium-high and add sugar, cinnamon, allspice, cloves, oregano, bay leaves, and rosemary.

18. Step 18

    Stir everything together and let it cook until the mixture reduces by about half, which should take around 2 to 3 minutes.

19. Step 19

    Once your sauce is ready, return the browned beef and shallots to the skillet, tossing them gently to coat in the flavorful sauce.

20. Step 20

    Pour in 2 cups of beef broth and bring it all to a gentle simmer.

21. Step 21

    Reduce the heat to low or medium-low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer softly for an hour.

22. Step 22

    After that, uncover the pot and continue to cook for at least another hour, stirring occasionally.

23. Step 23

    If the stew looks too thick, feel free to add more broth, and skim off any excess fat if you prefer a lighter dish.

24. Step 24

    Your stew is ready when the beef is tender and a fork slides in easily, but be careful not to let the meat fall apart.

25. Step 25

    Depending on the size of your beef cubes, this could take a bit longer than 2 hours.

26. Step 26

    Before serving, taste your stew and adjust the seasonings to your liking.

27. Step 27

    Now, gather your loved ones and enjoy this hearty, Greek-style beef stew that’s sure to warm both your heart and your home!.