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–+ servings
Greek Manestra

Deliciously Cozy Greek Manestra You'll Crave Tonight

Experience the comforting embrace of Greek Manestra, a delightful one-pot dish that's quick to prepare and filled with hearty flavors.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 bowls
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Greek
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Base
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Substitutable with vegetable oil
  • 1 pound Beef or Lamb Ground meat can be used for quicker cooking
  • 1 medium Onion Can substitute with shallots
  • 2 cloves Garlic May use garlic powder as an alternative
  • 2 tablespoons Tomato Paste Can omit or use crushed tomatoes
  • 1 can Crushed Tomatoes Fresh ripe tomatoes can be used
  • 1 leaf Bay Leaf Remove before serving
For the Flavor
  • 1 stick Cinnamon Optional; omit if preferred
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Pepper
For the Pasta
  • 1 cup Orzo Can replace with kritharaki or pearl couscous
For the Finish
  • 1 tablespoon Fresh Parsley Can use basil or cilantro

Equipment

  • Large pot or Dutch oven

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat until shimmering.
  2. Add cubed beef or lamb pieces in a single layer and sear for 4-5 minutes until golden brown.
  3. Stir in diced onion and minced garlic; sauté for 3-4 minutes until onion is translucent.
  4. Stir in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste and cook for 1 minute to caramelize.
  5. Add 1 can of crushed tomatoes and a splash of water or broth; stir to combine.
  6. Toss in a bay leaf, stick of cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 25-30 minutes.
  7. Add 1 cup of orzo while stirring gently, checking liquid levels.
  8. Cook uncovered for another 10 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
  9. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
  10. Dish into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 20gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 560mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 5gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 12mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Stir regularly to prevent sticking, and adjust liquid as needed. For a vegetarian version, substitute meat with vegetables and use vegetable broth.

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