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Experience the taste of Greece with Pastitsada, a classic Greek pasta and beef stew that combines tender beef, aromatic spices, and rich tomato sauce. This dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a healthy recipe choice for anyone seeking a hearty meal. By following this simple, step-by-step cooking guide, you’ll be able to bring the flavors of the Mediterranean to your kitchen. Dive into this easy recipe and discover a homemade dish that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients

1 kg (2.2 lbs) beef, cut into chunks
500 g (17.6 oz) pasta
2 onions, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp olive oil
1 can (400 g) crushed tomatoes
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 cup red wine
1 bay leaf
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1 tsp ground cloves
Salt and pepper to taste
Grated cheese (Kefalotyri or Parmesan) for serving

Instructions / Method

Prepare the Beef: Season the beef chunks with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Brown the beef on all sides, then remove from the pot and set aside.
Cook the Aromatics: In the same pot, add the chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté until the onions become translucent.
Deglaze with Wine: Pour in the red wine to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
Simmer the Sauce: Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, bay leaf, cinnamon, and cloves. Return the beef to the pot, stir well, and bring to a simmer.
Cook the Stew: Cover and let the stew simmer on low heat for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender.
Cook the Pasta: In the final 20 minutes of the stew’s cooking time, cook the pasta according to package instructions.
Combine and Serve: Once the beef is tender and the pasta is cooked, combine them. Serve hot with grated cheese on top.

Recipe Information Box

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 6
Cuisine: Greek

Notes / Tips

Variations: For a richer flavor, use beef stock instead of water when simmering the stew.
Substitutions: You can substitute beef with chicken or pork for a different taste.
Storage: This dish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated before serving.

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 550 per serving
Carbs: 60g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 20g

Conclusion

We hope you enjoy making and savoring this classic Greek pasta and beef stew. Remember to share your feedback with us and feel free to revisit the YouTube video for a visual guide. Happy cooking and enjoy every bite of your Pastitsada!