Greek Beef Stifado is a rich and flavorful stew made with tender beef, pearl onions, and a fragrant blend of Mediterranean spices. Traditionally slow-cooked, this Instant Pot version delivers the same depth of flavor in a fraction of the time. Perfect for a comforting dinner, this dish pairs beautifully with crusty bread, rice, or mashed potatoes.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into chunks
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 1 lb pearl onions, peeled
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup red wine
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ tsp ground allspice
• ½ tsp ground cloves
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp dried thyme
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp honey
• 2 tbsp tomato paste

Directions

1. Set the Instant Pot to Sauté mode and heat the olive oil. Add the beef chunks and sear until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
2. Add the diced onion and pearl onions to the pot. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Deglaze the pot with red wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let it simmer for 2 minutes.
4. Return the beef to the pot and add beef broth, crushed tomatoes, red wine vinegar, cinnamon, allspice, cloves, bay leaf, oregano, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Stir well.
5. Close the Instant Pot lid, set the valve to Sealing, and cook on High Pressure for 35 minutes.
6. Once the cooking time is up, allow for a 10-minute natural release, then manually release any remaining pressure.
7. Switch back to Sauté mode and stir in the honey and tomato paste. Let it simmer for 5 minutes to thicken. Adjust seasoning if needed.
8. Serve hot with rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread. Enjoy!

Nutrients (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~400 kcal
• Protein: 35g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fat: 18g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sodium: 600mg

What is Greek Beef Stifado?

Stifado is a traditional Greek stew made with beef (or sometimes rabbit), slow-cooked with pearl onions, tomatoes, and a unique blend of Mediterranean spices. Unlike other beef stews, stifado has a distinctive sweet and tangy balance, thanks to ingredients like red wine, vinegar, and a hint of honey. The use of warm spices such as cinnamon, allspice, and cloves adds an aromatic depth that sets it apart from other meat stews.

The Unique Flavors of Stifado

What makes Greek Beef Stifado stand out is its complex yet harmonious flavor profile:

• Sweetness: Pearl onions, tomatoes, and honey provide natural sweetness, enhancing the dish’s depth.
• Tanginess: Red wine and red wine vinegar balance the sweetness with a mild acidity.
• Warm Spices: Cinnamon, allspice, and cloves infuse the dish with a cozy, aromatic warmth.
• Savory Richness: The beef, slow-cooked with broth and tomatoes, develops a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Why Use the Instant Pot for Stifado?

Traditionally, stifado is cooked slowly for hours to achieve its signature tenderness and depth of flavor. However, with modern cooking methods, the Instant Pot allows you to replicate the slow-cooked results in a fraction of the time. Here’s why using the Instant Pot is a game-changer for this dish:

• Time-Saving: What typically takes 3–4 hours on the stovetop can now be done in under an hour.
• Tender Meat: The pressure cooking method ensures that the beef becomes fork-tender without the need for long simmering.
• Flavor Infusion: The high-pressure environment helps the spices, wine, and aromatics meld together beautifully.

The Role of Key Ingredients

Every ingredient in this recipe plays an essential role in achieving the perfect stifado:

• Beef Chuck: A well-marbled cut that becomes exceptionally tender under pressure cooking.
• Pearl Onions: These small, sweet onions add a natural sweetness and unique texture.
• Red Wine: Adds depth and complexity to the sauce. A dry red wine like Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon works best.
• Cinnamon, Allspice, and Cloves: These warm spices are the heart of stifado’s distinct Mediterranean aroma.
• Red Wine Vinegar: Enhances the dish’s tanginess and balances the rich, savory flavors.
• Honey: A touch of honey rounds out the acidity and adds subtle sweetness.

Serving Suggestions

Greek Beef Stifado is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of side dishes:

• Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up the rich, flavorful sauce.
• Mashed Potatoes: A creamy and comforting pairing that complements the stew’s bold flavors.
• Rice or Orzo: The sauce coats rice or orzo beautifully, making for a satisfying meal.
• Pasta: Some variations of stifado are served over pasta, much like a Greek-style ragu.

Tips for the Best Instant Pot Stifado

• Brown the Meat Well: Searing the beef before pressure cooking adds a deep, caramelized flavor to the dish.
• Use Fresh Spices: Since the spices play a significant role in this dish, using high-quality, fresh spices ensures the best flavor.
• Don’t Skip the Natural Release: Allowing the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for 10 minutes helps the beef stay juicy and tender.
• Adjust the Sauce Consistency: After cooking, you can let the stew simmer for a few extra minutes to thicken the sauce if needed.

Storing and Reheating

One of the best things about Greek Beef Stifado is that it tastes even better the next day! The flavors continue to develop as it sits, making it an excellent meal prep option.

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: This stew freezes well for up to 3 months. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm it up on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.

Health Benefits of Greek Beef Stifado

This dish isn’t just delicious—it’s also packed with nutrients:

• High in Protein: The beef provides a good source of protein, essential for muscle growth and repair.
• Rich in Antioxidants: Tomatoes, onions, and spices contribute antioxidants that support overall health.
• Balanced Macronutrients: With a good mix of protein, healthy fats, and carbohydrates, it’s a well-rounded meal.
• Low in Processed Ingredients: Unlike many store-bought stews, this homemade version is free of artificial additives.

Conclusion

Greek Beef Stifado is a true comfort food that brings together the warmth of Mediterranean spices, the richness of slow-cooked beef, and the convenience of the Instant Pot. Whether you’re looking for a hearty family dinner or a dish to impress guests, this flavorful stew is sure to be a favorite. Serve it with your choice of side, enjoy the delightful aroma, and savor every bite of this classic Greek delicacy.