Enjoy this hearty Greek dish featuring tender beef and orzo pasta, simmered in a flavorful tomato and spice sauce, then baked with cheese for a comforting meal.
Ingredients
Meat
2 lbslbsbeef chuck, cut into large cubes
2 tbsptbspolive oil
1 largelargeonion, finely chopped
2clovesgarlic, minced
1 can (14 oz / 400 g)cancrushed tomatoes
2 tbsptbsptomato paste
1 tsptspground cinnamon
2–3wholecloves
1bay leafbay leaf
4 cupscupsbeef broth
2 cupscupsorzo pasta
Salt and pepperto taste
1 cupcupgrated kefalotyri or parmesan cheese
Instructions
Heat olive oil and sear beef until browned, then set aside.
Sauté onion and garlic, add tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, and spices; simmer briefly.
Return beef to the pot, add broth, cover, and simmer for 1.5–2 hours until tender.
Stir in orzo and cook until al dente, about 15–20 minutes.
Transfer to a baking dish, sprinkle with cheese, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes.
Remove bay leaf and cloves, then serve garnished with extra cheese.
Notes
For a richer flavor, let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving.