Manestra - Orzo & Ground Beef - Greek

Servings: 4

Author: Chef Connie

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Manestra - Greek Orzo and Ground Beef

Manestra is a comforting Greek dish that combines orzo pasta with a hearty ground beef tomato sauce, all cooked in one pot for a meal that’s rich, flavorful, and perfect for weeknight dinners. Here's how to make it.

Prep time: 10 MinCook time: 30 MinTotal time: 40 Min

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Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 pound (450g) ground beef (or ground lamb)
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 1 can (14 oz/400g) crushed tomatoes (or passata)
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 4 cups chicken or beef stock (plus extra if needed)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, for a traditional touch)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice or nutmeg (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan or Kefalotyri cheese (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Add the ground beef to the pot, breaking it up with a wooden spoon.
5. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes, then drain any excess fat if necessary.
6. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes to enhance its flavor.
7. Add the crushed tomatoes, oregano, cinnamon, allspice (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix well.
8. Pour in the orzo and stock, stirring to combine.
9. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
10. Cover the pot and let the orzo cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Add more stock or water if the mixture becomes too thick.
11. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
12. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan or Kefalotyri cheese and stir until melted, if desired.
13. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and an extra sprinkle of cheese if preferred.

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Manestra, a traditional Greek dish, is a hearty and comforting stew made with a variety of grains, legumes, and vegetables. The base of the dish typically consists of barley, wheat, or a combination of grains, which are simmered in a flavorful broth until tender. Complementing the grains are an array of vegetables, such as onions, carrots, and tomatoes, as well as aromatic herbs and spices that lend depth and complexity to the overall flavor profile. Manestra is often served as a main course, but it can also be enjoyed as a side dish, making it a versatile and satisfying option for any meal.

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