Greek Beef Stifado (Beef & Onion Stew): An Incredible Ultimate Recipe

Greek Beef Stifado is a deeply flavorful, slow-simmered stew made with tender beef, sweet pearl onions, warm spices, and a rich tomato-wine sauce. This traditional Greek comfort dish is known for its aromatic depth, where cinnamon, cloves, and bay leaf gently perfume the sauce without overpowering the meat.

Perfect for cozy dinners, family gatherings, or weekend cooking, stifado is a timeless recipe that tastes even better the next day.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Authentic Greek Classic – Traditional flavors and method
• Rich & Hearty – Deep, slow-cooked taste
• Comfort Food at Its Best – Warm and satisfying
• Make-Ahead Friendly – Even better the next day
• Simple Ingredients – Big flavor from pantry staples
• Perfect for Cold Days – Cozy and filling

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 2 hours
• Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes

Ingredients

• 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into large chunks
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1½ lbs pearl onions (fresh or frozen)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup red wine
• 1 cup crushed tomatoes
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 3–4 whole cloves
• 1 tsp sugar
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 cup beef broth
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Brown the Beef:
   Heat olive oil in a heavy pot over medium-high heat. Brown beef in batches until well-seared. Remove and set aside.
2. Prepare the Onions:
   In the same pot, add pearl onions and sauté briefly until lightly golden. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds.
3. Deglaze:
   Pour in red wine and scrape the bottom of the pot to release flavor. Simmer 2–3 minutes.
4. Build the Stew:
   Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, bay leaves, cinnamon stick, cloves, sugar, salt, and pepper. Return beef to the pot.
5. Simmer Slowly:
   Cover and simmer on low heat for about 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until beef is fork-tender and sauce is thick.
6. Finish & Serve:
   Remove bay leaves, cinnamon stick, and cloves. Garnish with parsley if desired.

How to Serve

• Traditional Pairings: Mashed potatoes, rice, or orzo
• Rustic Option: Crusty bread to soak up the sauce
• Presentation Tip: Serve in deep bowls with extra sauce
• Beverage Pairing: Red wine or sparkling water

Additional Tips

• Cut beef into large chunks to keep it tender
• Low and slow cooking is key
• Don’t skip the warm spices, they define stifado
• Taste near the end and adjust seasoning

Variations

• Rabbit or Lamb Stifado: Traditional alternatives
• Extra Sweet Onions: Add a bit more sugar if needed
• No Wine Version: Replace wine with extra broth
• Slow Cooker: Cook on low for 7–8 hours

Storage & Freezing

• Refrigerate: Up to 4 days
• Freeze: Up to 3 months
• Reheat: Gently on stovetop for best texture

Special Equipment

• Heavy-bottom pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon
• Ladle

Frequently Asked Questions

Is stifado spicy?
No ,it’s warmly spiced, not hot.

Can I use regular onions instead of pearl onions?
Yes, but pearl onions are traditional and sweeter.

Does it taste strongly of cinnamon?
No, it adds warmth without overpowering.

Is this dish better the next day?
Absolutely, flavors deepen beautifully.

Conclusion

Greek Beef Stifado is a soulful, comforting stew that showcases the beauty of slow cooking and simple ingredients. With tender beef, sweet onions, and aromatic spices, it’s a dish that brings authentic Greek warmth straight to your table.