Greek Style Braised Beef with Orzo in Tomato Sauce

Greek-Style Braised Beef with Orzo in Tomato Sauce

👉Ingredients:

2 lbs beef chuck or lamb shoulder, cut into 1.5-inch cubes

2 tbsp olive oil

1 large onion, finely chopped

3 garlic cloves, minced

2 cups crushed tomatoes

1 tbsp tomato paste

½ tsp ground cinnamon

1 tsp dried oregano

½ tsp smoked paprika

Salt and black pepper to taste

4 cups beef broth

1½ cups orzo pasta

½ cup grated Kefalotyri or Parmesan cheese

Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish

Instructions:

✅️1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

✅️2. In a large Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef or lamb cubes in batches and sear them until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.

✅️3. In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for 3–4 minutes, until soft and fragrant.

✅️4. Stir in the tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, cinnamon, oregano, and smoked paprika. Cook for about 2 minutes to blend the flavors.

✅️5. Return the meat to the pot, pour in the beef broth, season with salt and pepper, and bring to a simmer.

✅️6. Cover the pot and transfer it to the oven. Braise for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the meat is fork-tender.

✅️7. Remove the pot from the oven, stir in the orzo, and return it to the oven uncovered. Bake for another 20–25 minutes, until the orzo is cooked and the sauce is slightly thickened.

✅️8. Sprinkle with grated cheese and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs.

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 2 hours 30 minutes

Total Time: 2 hours 50 minutes

Calories: 520 kcal per serving

Servings: 6