Youvetsi is a traditional Greek dish that’s both comforting and flavorful, perfect for a family meal.
This hearty stew features tender chunks of beef simmered in a rich tomato sauce, then combined with orzo pasta and baked until everything is beautifully cooked and infused with flavor.
It’s a one-pot dish that’s easy to prepare and sure to please everyone at the table.
Preparation time:
- Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 2 hours (including baking time)
- Difficulty: Medium
- Servings: 4-6 people
Ingredients:
The necessary ingredients (possible in all kinds of variations):
- 2 pounds beef chuck or stewing beef, cut into large chunks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 cup red wine (optional, or substitute with beef broth)
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 cinnamon stick (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
- 1/2 cup grated kefalotyri or Parmesan cheese (for topping)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Alternative ingredients:
- Lamb variation: Substitute the beef with lamb for a different flavor profile.
- Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free pasta instead of orzo.
- Vegetarian: Omit the beef and add more vegetables, like mushrooms, zucchini, and eggplant.
Steps:
The steps of preparation (possible in all kinds of variations):
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Brown the beef: In a large ovenproof pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef chunks in batches, browning them on all sides. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.
- Sauté the aromatics: In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until the onion is soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Deglaze the pot: Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes to enhance the flavor. Then, pour in the red wine (or beef broth) to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
- Simmer the stew: Add the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, bay leaf, cinnamon stick (if using), dried oregano, allspice, salt, and pepper. Return the browned beef to the pot. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven. Cook for 1 1/2 hours, or until the beef is tender.
- Cook the orzo: Remove the pot from the oven and stir in the orzo pasta. If the stew is too thick, add a little more broth or water. Return the pot to the oven and bake, uncovered, for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and has absorbed the liquid.
- Finish and serve: Remove the bay leaf and cinnamon stick. Sprinkle the top with grated kefalotyri or Parmesan cheese and return to the oven for a few minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Nutritional Benefits
- High in protein: Beef provides a good source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth.
- Rich in flavor: The combination of spices, tomatoes, and wine creates a deeply flavorful sauce.
- Comforting and filling: The orzo adds a satisfying, hearty element to the dish.
Possible Additions or Upgrades
- Add vegetables: Stir in spinach, kale, or bell peppers for added nutrition and color.
- Herb boost: Add fresh rosemary or thyme for extra aromatic flavor.
- Spicy kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Lemon zest: Grate some fresh lemon zest over the dish before serving for a bright, citrusy finish.
Q&A
Can I make Youvetsi ahead of time?
Yes, Youvetsi can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. The flavors often deepen and improve when the dish is allowed to sit.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or in a pot on the stovetop over low heat. Add a little extra broth if needed to prevent drying out.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Orzo is traditional, but you can substitute with small pasta shapes like ditalini or small shells.
Can I cook this dish entirely on the stovetop?
Yes, you can simmer the stew on the stovetop until the beef is tender, then stir in the orzo and cook until done.
What can I serve with Youvetsi?
Serve with a simple green salad, crusty bread, or a side of roasted vegetables.
How can I make the dish more flavorful?
Use a high-quality beef broth, fresh herbs, and a good red wine to enhance the depth of flavor.
Can I freeze Youvetsi?
Yes, Youvetsi freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before freezing in an airtight container. Thaw and reheat before serving.
How do I keep the orzo from getting mushy?
Cook the orzo until just tender, and avoid overbaking. The orzo will continue to absorb liquid even after cooking, so slightly undercooking it can help maintain texture.
Can I make this dish in a slow cooker?
Yes, brown the beef and sauté the aromatics first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, adding the orzo in the last hour.
What cheese can I use if I can’t find kefalotyri?
Parmesan or Pecorino Romano are good substitutes for kefalotyri.
This Youvetsi is a comforting, hearty dish that’s perfect for sharing with family and friends. Enjoy making and savoring this traditional Greek stew!
