Beef Giouvetsi (Greek Beef Orzo Pasta) Recipe

Beef Giouvetsi is the epitome of Greek comfort food.

With its tender chunks of beef, hearty orzo pasta, and rich tomato sauce, this dish brings the warmth and flavors of Greece straight to your table.

Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or hosting guests, this traditional recipe is sure to impress.

Let’s dive into the details of making this beloved classic!

What Is Beef Giouvetsi?

Key components of Beef Giouvetsi include:

• Beef: Typically chuck or stew meat, chosen for its ability to become melt-in-your-mouth tender.
• Orzo Pasta: A small, rice-shaped pasta that absorbs the rich sauce.
• Tomato-Based Sauce: Infused with aromatic spices like cinnamon, bay leaves, and allspice.

Ingredients for Beef Giouvetsi

To make a traditional Beef Giouvetsi, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Beef:

• 2 lbs (900 g) beef chuck or stew meat, cut into cubes
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced

For the Sauce:

• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 tsp ground allspice
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)

For the Pasta:

• 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
• 2 cups hot water or beef broth (as needed)

Optional Toppings:

• Grated Kefalotyri cheese (or Parmesan)
• Fresh parsley for garnish

How to Make Beef Giouvetsi

Follow these steps to prepare a flavorful and authentic Beef Giouvetsi:

1. Sear the Beef:

• Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy pot over medium-high heat.
• Season the beef with salt and pepper, then sear in batches until browned on all sides. Remove the beef and set aside.

2. Prepare the Sauce:

• In the same pot, sauté the onion until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
• Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
• Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes to deepen the flavor.
• Add the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, cinnamon stick, bay leaves, allspice, and sugar (if using). Mix well.

3. Simmer the Beef:

• Return the seared beef to the pot and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
• Cover and cook on low heat for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the sauce is rich.

4. Add the Orzo:

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Add the orzo to the pot, mixing it into the sauce.
• If needed, add hot water or additional broth to ensure the orzo cooks evenly.
• Transfer the pot to the oven (or continue cooking on the stovetop) and bake for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender.

5. Serve:

• Remove the cinnamon stick and bay leaves.
• Sprinkle with grated Kefalotyri cheese and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot!

Tips for the Best Beef Giouvetsi

• Choose the Right Beef: Opt for well-marbled cuts like chuck for maximum tenderness.
• Don’t Overcook the Orzo: Stir occasionally and monitor the liquid level to avoid mushy pasta.
• Use a Clay Pot: If you have one, cooking in a traditional clay pot enhances the dish’s flavor.
• Balance the Flavors: Add a touch of sugar if the tomato sauce tastes too acidic.

Variations of Giouvetsi

Beef Giouvetsi is just one version of this versatile dish. Here are some popular variations:

• Lamb Giouvetsi: Swap the beef for tender lamb for a more traditional take.
• Vegetarian Giouvetsi: Omit the meat and add hearty vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or mushrooms.
• Alternative Grains: Substitute orzo with rice, pearl couscous, or even quinoa for a unique twist.

Serving and Pairing Ideas

Beef Giouvetsi is best served family-style, straight from the pot or clay dish. Pair it with:

• Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up the flavorful sauce.
• Greek Salad: A refreshing side with cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta. You can find our salad recipes here.
• Wine: Robust red wines like Agiorgitiko or a Cabernet Sauvignon complement the dish beautifully.

Storing and Reheating Giouvetsi

Storage:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating:

• Reheat in a pot over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to restore the sauce’s consistency.

Freezing:

• Beef Giouvetsi freezes well! Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQ’s

Can I use chicken instead of beef?

Yes, chicken thighs or drumsticks are great alternatives and will cook faster than beef.

What if I don’t have orzo pasta?

You can substitute orzo with rice, small pasta shapes, or pearl couscous.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! Beef Giouvetsi tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.