STIFΆDO | Tender beef and onion stew

Greek Stifado: A Hearty, Spiced Beef Stew That Will Warm Your Soul

When the weather turns cooler, and the desire for something rich and comforting takes over, there’s no dish quite like Stifado. This traditional Greek stew with tender beef, aromatic spices, and the deep sweetness of onions, is a true representation of Greek comfort food. Known for its heartwarming flavours and rich texture, Stifado is the kind of dish that brings people together around the table and leaves them craving more.

Though it’s typically made with beef, Stifado can also be prepared with lamb or rabbit even octopus, making it a versatile dish that can suit various tastes. However, the essence of this stew remains the same—slow-cooked meat in a fragrant, spiced tomato sauce that melds perfectly with the natural sweetness of onions. If you’re new to Greek cuisine or looking to add another classic to your culinary repertoire, Stifado is the perfect place to start.

A bowl of Stifado, a tender beef and onion stew

What is Greek Stifado?

Stifado (pronounced stee-FAH-tho) is a traditional Greek stew that dates back to ancient times. The name "Stifado" is derived from the Greek word "stifado," which refers to a method of cooking meat with onions, spices, and wine. Historically, Stifado was made with small game meat like rabbit or hare, but today, beef and lamb are more commonly used.

The hallmark of Stifado is its balance of flavours: the sweetness of slow-cooked onions, the warmth of aromatic spices like cinnamon, cloves, and allspice, and the richness of a slow-simmered, braised meat. It’s typically served with crusty bread, rice, or mashed potatoes to soak up the luscious sauce, making it a filling, satisfying meal perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner.

Choice of meat cut:

When it comes to low and slow or pressure cooking and achieving the best tender, melt in your mouth result for beef recipes, my go-to is chuck steak. The longer amounts of time needed for cooking chuck cuts help to break down the tough fibres which makes it more tender the longer it cooks. It is great used in stews, braised dishes, slow cooking, and pot roasts.

STIFΆDO | Tender Beef and Onion Stew.

Mary Politis
Upon my travels in Greece, if there is one dish you can find on any menu at any taverna, it’s Stifado! Rustic and authentic tender Greek beef stew cooked with sweet shallots in a rich aromatic red sauce. So popular, it’s on every specials board, and it also makes a great Sunday lunch or dinner, too. Gather at the table, break crispy fresh bread, share it with your loved ones και βουτά! (dive in).
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours
Servings 6 serves

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 kg chuck steak, cut into large pieces
  • 6 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • Approximately 15 shallots – skin removed
  • 2-3 cloves of chopped garlic
  • 1/2 cup red wine
  • 2 sticks of cinnamon or 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 6-8 whole cloves
  • 1/2 teaspoon allspice
  • 3 bay leaves
  • 700 g tomato passata
  • Water - add enough that just reaches the meat in the pot.
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley to garnish

Instructions
 

  • Place your Dutch oven or large pot over medium high heat. Add the oil and brown the meat in batches (the meat does not need to be cooked through). Add another drizzle of olive oil and sauté the whole shallots for approximately 2 minutes then add the chopped garlic. Deglaze then pot with the red wine, then add the tomato passata, along with all the spices.
  • Add the meat back into the pot and add enough water to just reach the pieces sitting highest in the pot. Place pot with the lid completely. Turn the heat down to medium and allow to simmer for up to 2 hours checking and stirring often (gently, not to break the onions). Sauce should be rich and thick.
  • If you find the meat is not tender enough, cook it longer and if necessary, add more water if required.

Notes

Choice of meat cut:

When it comes to low and slow or pressure cooking and achieving the best tender, melt in your mouth result for beef recipes, my go-to is chuck steak. The longer amounts of time needed for cooking chuck cuts help to break down the tough fibres which makes it more tender the longer it cooks. It is great used in stews, braised dishes, slow cooking, and pot roasts.

What do I serve Stifado with?

There are many ways to enjoy Stifado. The way I order it in Greece is with fried potatoes. I really enjoy dipping the chips (or fries) in the rich sauce. If ordered off the menu, Stifado is also enjoyed with fresh crusty (and usually woodfired) bread, too. At home, my family enjoy it with a side of rice of mash potato, and if you’d like to try something with less carbohydrate, cauliflower or parsnip puree are fantastic options.
Keyword Meat, Onion
Posted in Meat, Recipe.