There is something absolutely heartwarming about a rich, slow-cooked stew that brings people together, and the Greek Beef Stew (Stifado) with Pearl Onions Recipe is just that kind of magic in a pot. This traditional Greek dish combines tender chunks of beef with aromatic spices, sweet pearl onions, and a luscious, wine-infused sauce that’s both comforting and deeply flavorful. It’s a culinary hug on a plate, perfect for sharing with loved ones or savoring on a cozy night in.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Greek Beef Stew (Stifado) with Pearl Onions Recipe lies in its simplicity—each ingredient is carefully chosen to deliver layers of flavor and texture that meld into something unforgettable. From the fragrant spices to the sweet pearl onions, every element plays a vital role in creating a truly authentic and satisfying meal.
- 2 lbs beef chuck: Choose well-marbled beef for tender, juicy stew meat.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness and helps brown the beef beautifully.
- 2 large onions, sliced: Provides a sweet, caramelized base for the stew.
- 6 garlic cloves, minced: Enhances aroma and depth, a hallmark of Greek cuisine.
- 1 cinnamon stick: Offers warm, subtle spice that defines Stifado’s unique flavor.
- 3-4 whole cloves: Adds a hint of fragrant intensity without overpowering.
- 2 bay leaves: Compliments the savory profile of the stew.
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste: Contributes acidity and rich color to the sauce.
- 1 cup red wine: Deepens flavor and tenderizes the beef beautifully.
- 1 cup beef broth: Keeps the stew hearty and flavorful.
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar: Balances richness with a bright undertone.
- 1 teaspoon sugar: Balances acidity and enhances natural sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Brings a touch of Mediterranean earthiness.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential seasonings for perfect balance.
- 1.5 lbs pearl onions, peeled: Adds tender sweetness and a textural contrast.
- Optional: chopped fresh parsley: For a fresh, vibrant garnish.
How to Make Greek Beef Stew (Stifado) with Pearl Onions Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Pat your beef cubes dry to ensure they brown nicely. In batches, sear each piece, turning them so every side develops a deep, golden crust—this step locks in flavor and texture. Once browned, set the beef aside. It’s this caramelization that forms the stew’s rich base.
Step 2: Sauté the Onions
In the same pot, add the sliced onions and cook over medium heat until they become soft and golden, about 8 minutes. This slow cooking draws out their natural sweetness, adding a beautiful complexity to the stew. The remaining beef juices in the pot will blend with the onions, making the flavors even more irresistible.
Step 3: Infuse with Garlic and Spices
Now it’s time to introduce the minced garlic, cinnamon stick, cloves, and bay leaves. Cook for just a minute until their aromas awaken—trust me, your kitchen will smell amazing. These spices are what really define Stifado, creating that unmistakable warm, cozy fragrance that makes this stew so special.
Step 4: Build the Sauce
Stir in the tomato paste and cook for an additional minute, allowing it to darken slightly and deepen the sauce’s flavor. Return the browned beef to the pot, then pour in the red wine, beef broth, and red wine vinegar. Add sugar, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring the pot to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Let everything simmer gently for 1.5 to 2 hours, giving the beef plenty of time to become tender and soak up those lovely flavors.
Step 5: Prepare Pearl Onions and Final Simmer
While the stew simmers, sauté the pearl onions in a separate pan until they get a light golden color. This helps release their sweetness and keeps them tender. Add the onions to the stew during the last 30 to 40 minutes of cooking so they meld perfectly without losing their delightful texture. Once the beef is meltingly tender and the sauce has thickened slightly, remove the pot from heat. Don’t forget to fish out the bay leaves, cloves, and cinnamon stick before serving!
How to Serve Greek Beef Stew (Stifado) with Pearl Onions Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkling of freshly chopped parsley brightens up the stew with a pop of vibrant green and a fresh herbal note that perfectly complements the rich flavors. Feel free to add a drizzle of good-quality olive oil just before serving for additional silkiness.
Side Dishes
This stew pairs beautifully with crusty bread—ideal for soaking up every last bit of the luscious sauce. Creamy mashed potatoes or buttery orzo provide a comforting bed for the stew, making each bite even more satisfying. Traditional Greek lemon potatoes on the side add another layer of citrusy delight.
Creative Ways to Present
For a rustic touch, serve the Greek Beef Stew (Stifado) with pearl onions in an earthenware bowl or a cast-iron pot straight from stove to table. Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan or a dollop of Greek yogurt for a modern twist that still honors tradition. A sprinkle of toasted pine nuts can also add an unexpected crunchy texture.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Stifado tastes even better the next day once the flavors have had time to meld fully. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove to preserve the tender texture of the beef and the sweet softness of the pearl onions.
Freezing
This stew is freezer-friendly and freezes wonderfully. Pour it into a freezer-safe container, leaving room for expansion, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator to maintain that fresh-from-the-pot quality.
Reheating
Reheat slowly on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. This gentle approach helps keep the beef tender while reviving the stew’s rich sauce. Adding a splash of beef broth or water can refresh the consistency if it’s thickened too much after refrigeration or freezing.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of meat for this stew?
Absolutely! While beef chuck is classic, lamb or even rabbit are traditional alternatives that bring their own unique flavors to Stifado. Keep in mind that cooking times might vary slightly depending on the meat choice.
How do I peel pearl onions quickly?
Blanching pearl onions in boiling water for a minute and then shocking them in ice water makes the skins slip right off. This little trick saves time and effort, so you don’t have to peel each onion by hand.
Is red wine necessary in the recipe?
Red wine plays an important role in tenderizing the beef and deepening the stew’s flavor. However, if you prefer to avoid alcohol, you can substitute with extra beef broth and a splash of grape juice or balsamic vinegar to maintain acidity.
How thick should the stew sauce be?
The sauce in Greek Beef Stew (Stifado) with Pearl Onions Recipe should be rich and slightly thickened but still saucy enough to coat the beef generously. If it’s too thin, simmer uncovered for a bit longer until it reaches your preferred consistency.
Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?
Yes! After browning the beef and sautéing the onions and spices, transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or until the beef is tender. Add the pearl onions during the last hour of cooking to keep their texture intact.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to fill your home with irresistible aromas and gather everyone around a plate of hearty comfort, the Greek Beef Stew (Stifado) with Pearl Onions Recipe is a must-try. It’s one of those dishes that feels like a warm embrace, bringing a touch of Greek tradition and flavorful joy to your table. Give it a go and watch it become your next favorite go-to stew.
