Name: Beef Stifado
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-492096H53M45S
Total time: 2 h 45 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into chunks; 2 cups pearl onions; 4 garlic cloves, minced; 1 cup dry red wine; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 cinnamon stick; 4 whole cloves; 2 bay leaves; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 2 cups water or beef stock

Craving a dish that wraps you in warmth and deep Mediterranean flavor? Beef Stifado might just be the most comforting Greek stew you’ve yet to discover. Picture tender beef chunks slowly braised in a spiced tomato-based sauce, studded with whole pearl onions and infused with red wine, cinnamon, and cloves. It’s hearty, aromatic, and absolutely unforgettable.

This traditional Greek beef stew isn’t just a meal—it’s a culinary journey. It brings together the robustness of beef and the subtle sweetness of onions in a sauce that practically begs for a crusty loaf of bread to soak it all up. Ideal for slow Sunday dinners or holiday gatherings, Beef Stifado is one of those recipes that feels like home, even if you’re far from the Aegean.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into the simmering richness of Beef Stifado, having the right kitchen gear is crucial to bring out its best.

Dutch Oven or Heavy-Bottomed Pot: This is your primary cooking vessel. Its thick base ensures even heat distribution, crucial for searing the beef and simmering the stew without scorching.

Sharp Chef’s Knife: A good knife makes prepping your beef chunks and vegetables cleaner and faster, allowing for consistent cuts that cook evenly.

Wooden Spoon or Heatproof Silicone Spatula: Essential for stirring the sauce and scraping the flavorful bits (fond) from the bottom of your pot after searing.

Measuring Cups & Spoons: To keep the seasoning and wine-tomato ratio balanced, accurate measuring tools are a must.

Ladle or Serving Spoon: You’ll need this for serving the hot, luscious stew directly into bowls or over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes.

Ingredients for the Beef Stifado

Beef Chuck (or Stewing Beef): The core of the stew. Its marbling melts during slow cooking, making it exceptionally tender.

Pearl Onions: These add a delicate sweetness that balances the richness of the sauce and beef.

Garlic Cloves: Sautéed early, they bring aromatic depth to the entire dish.

Red Wine: Acts as a deglazing agent and enhances the sauce with acidity and boldness.

Tomato Paste: Intensifies the umami notes and creates a lush, thick sauce.

Cinnamon Stick & Whole Cloves: These spices are essential in delivering Beef Stifado’s signature warmth.

Bay Leaves: Infuse a light herbal note that rounds out the flavor profile.

Olive Oil: Used for searing the beef and sautéeing aromatics, adding richness.

Red Wine Vinegar: Cuts through the sweetness and adds sharp balance.

Salt & Black Pepper: Simple but essential for seasoning the layers.

Water or Beef Stock: Helps create a slow-simmered sauce that keeps the beef moist.

How To Make the Beef Stifado

Step 1: Sear the Beef for Depth

Heat olive oil in your Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Working in batches, sear the beef chunks until browned on all sides. This step locks in flavor and sets the foundation for the stew.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Remove the beef and lower the heat. Add more oil if needed, then toss in the pearl onions and garlic. Sauté until the onions are slightly golden and fragrant.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

Stir in tomato paste, red wine vinegar, and red wine. Scrape up the browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Add bay leaves, cinnamon stick, cloves, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes.

Step 4: Simmer Low and Slow

Return the beef to the pot. Add just enough water or beef stock to cover the meat. Bring it to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 2 to 2.5 hours until the beef is melt-in-your-mouth tender.

Step 5: Adjust and Finish

Taste and adjust seasoning. If needed, simmer uncovered for an additional 15 minutes to thicken the sauce.

Serving and Storing Beef Stifado

Beef Stifado is best served hot with crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or even a bed of buttered noodles or orzo. Its rich sauce pairs well with starchy sides that soak up all the bold, spiced flavors.

For storing, let the stew cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It will keep in the fridge for up to 4 days and freezes well for up to 3 months. In fact, the flavors deepen over time, making leftovers even more delicious.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Beef Stifado in advance?

Yes! In fact, it’s even better the next day as the flavors develop beautifully overnight.

Can I substitute the beef with another protein?

Lamb or even rabbit are traditional in some regions of Greece. Just adjust the cooking time depending on the meat.

What type of red wine should I use?

A dry red like Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon works well. It should be something you enjoy drinking.

Can I use frozen pearl onions?

Absolutely. Just thaw and pat them dry before sautéeing to avoid excess moisture in the pan.

Is Beef Stifado spicy?

No, it’s warmly spiced from cinnamon and cloves but not hot-spicy. You can add chili flakes if you prefer a kick.

Want More Beef Stew Ideas?

If you enjoy dishes like Beef Stifado, you might also fall for the Hearty One-Pot Beef Stew Recipe, which leans into classic comfort food.

For another meaty pasta pairing, the Delicious Beef Bowtie Pasta might be just what you’re craving.

Craving stew with an Italian flair? The Rigatoni Bolognese layers beef richness with pasta texture.

Don’t miss the Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce if you’re in the mood for something creamy.

And if you want a slow-cooked, cheesy twist, the Buffalo Chicken Lasagna Recipe hits the spot for fusion lovers.

Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

You can save this to your comfort food boards for the next cold day. Just click the Pin button.

If you try it, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Did you go heavy on the cloves? Add carrots? Leave a comment below. I’m always curious how your kitchens bring it to life.

For more cozy meals like this one, visit my Pinterest board: LadyPlate on Pinterest.