Greek Beef Stew is a hearty and comforting dish filled with tender chunks of beef, fresh tomatoes, garlic, and fragrant herbs like oregano and cinnamon. It’s a perfect blend of rich flavors that come together in a thick, tasty sauce. This stew invites you to slow down and savor every spoonful, making it a real crowd-pleaser on chilly days.
I love making this stew because it fills the kitchen with warm, inviting smells that remind me of family dinners and happy gatherings. One of my favorite things about it is how the beef becomes so soft after cooking slowly, soaking up all the delicious spices and juices. I usually let it simmer just a bit longer than the recipe says because that extra time really makes the flavors shine.
Serving Greek Beef Stew over a bed of fluffy rice or alongside crusty bread is my go-to way to enjoy it. It’s also fantastic topped with a sprinkle of feta cheese and a few fresh parsley leaves to add a bright touch. Whenever I make this stew, everyone ends up asking for seconds – it’s just that good!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef chuck: This cut works best for slow-cooked stews because it’s tender and full of flavor once cooked slowly. If you can’t find chuck, brisket or short ribs are good alternatives.
Olive oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds a nice fruitiness to the stew, but you can use any mild vegetable oil if needed.
Pearl onions: They add a sweet, mild crunch. If fresh ones are tricky to find, frozen pearl onions are an easy swap and still taste great.
Tomato paste & crushed tomatoes: These build the rich base of the stew. If you want a lighter sauce, use fresh tomatoes instead, but you may need to cook longer for thickness.
Spices: Cinnamon and oregano give the stew its Greek essence. If you don’t have allspice, just skip it or add a tiny pinch of nutmeg for a similar warmth.
Kalamata olives: These add saltiness and depth. You can use other briny olives, but Kalamatas bring the true Greek flavor here.
How Can You Make the Beef Tender and Flavorful?
Cooking the beef until it’s tender is key for this stew. Here’s how to get it right every time:
- Brown the beef in batches: Don’t crowd the pan. Browning develops deep flavor and seals in juices.
- Low and slow simmer: After adding liquids, reduce heat to low and cover the pot. Slow simmering breaks down the meat fibers, making it tender.
- Don’t rush it: Allow at least 2 hours of cooking time. If the beef isn’t soft enough, just cook a bit longer.
- Check the liquid level: If it looks too dry, add a splash of beef broth or water during cooking to keep the meat moist.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven – it holds heat well and helps the beef cook evenly and stay tender.
- Sharp chef’s knife – makes cutting the beef and vegetables quick and easy.
- Wooden spoon – great for stirring without scratching your pot.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to get your spices and liquids just right.
- Peeler or small paring knife – handy if you need to peel pearl onions.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap beef for lamb for a richer, more traditional Greek feel.
- Add sliced bell peppers for a sweet crunch that balances the spices.
- Stir in crumbled feta right before serving to add saltiness and creaminess.
- Try fresh rosemary or thyme instead of oregano for a woodsy twist.
How to Make Greek Beef Stew
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 lbs (900g) beef chuck, cut into 1 1/2 inch cubes
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup pearl onions, peeled
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup dry red wine (optional)
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp ground allspice (optional)
- 1 cup pitted Kalamata olives
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Serving:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Feta cheese, for serving (optional)
- Crusty bread, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and brown the meat and vegetables, plus around 2 hours of simmering to make the beef nice and tender. Plan for about 2 hours 15 minutes total cooking time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Beef:
Heat the olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season the beef cubes with salt and pepper. Add the beef in batches so you don’t crowd the pan, and brown all sides, about 5-7 minutes per batch. Remove the browned beef and set aside.
2. Cook the Onions and Spices:
In the same pot, add the sliced onion and pearl onions. Sauté them about 5 minutes until softened. Then stir in the minced garlic, tomato paste, ground cinnamon, dried oregano, and allspice (if using). Cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add Liquids and Simmer:
Pour in the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, and red wine if you’re using it. Stir everything thoroughly to combine. Return the browned beef to the pot along with any juices. Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer gently for about 2 hours, until the beef is tender.
4. Add Olives and Final Touches:
About 20 minutes before the stew is finished cooking, add the pitted Kalamata olives. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the stew hot, sprinkled with chopped fresh parsley. Add some crumbled feta cheese on top if you like, and serve with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce. Enjoy your delicious Greek Beef Stew!
Can I Use Frozen Beef for This Stew?
Yes, but make sure to fully thaw the beef in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. Pat it dry to remove excess moisture, which helps with browning the meat properly.
Can I Make Greek Beef Stew in a Slow Cooker?
Absolutely! Brown the beef and sauté the onions and garlic first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the beef is tender.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if the stew seems too thick.
What Can I Serve with Greek Beef Stew?
This stew is delicious over fluffy rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or with crusty bread to soak up the sauce. A simple side salad also pairs nicely for a complete meal.
