Grandma’s Comforting Beef Stew with Pasta: A Taste of Home

Grandma's Beef Stew with Pasta

Who can resist a comforting plate of slow-cooked beef stew with pasta, made with love and care, just like Grandma used to make? This recipe is filled with the flavors of traditional Greek cuisine and carries the scent of home and family moments. And the best part? You don’t have to be a professional chef to make it. Just follow the steps, and let the magic happen!

Ingredients:

• 1 kg beef (from the leg or round)
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1/2 cup butter
• 1 1/2 cups crushed tomatoes
• 1/2 kg pasta
• Grated kefalotyri cheese (optional, for serving)
• 6 cloves garlic
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Meat:
   Make 6 small holes in the beef at different spots and stuff them with salt, pepper, and the garlic cloves. There’s no need to cut the meat into portions.

2. Searing the Meat:
   Place the beef in a large pot with the olive oil and chopped onion. Cook on medium heat, turning the meat until it’s browned on all sides, just like Grandma would do, with patience and care.

3. Tomato Sauce:
   Add the crushed tomatoes and mix well. Pour in enough water to cover the meat and let it simmer on low heat for 1-1.5 hours, or until the meat is tender and the sauce has thickened to perfection.

4. Cooking the Pasta:
   In a separate pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions. Once cooked, drain the pasta and transfer it to a serving dish. Sprinkle generously with grated cheese—don’t be shy!

5. Finishing Touch:
   Melt the butter and pour it over the pasta, tossing it gently to coat. Slice the beef into portions and serve it alongside the pasta, drizzling some of the rich sauce over the top, and finish with a little extra grated cheese.

This recipe is full of love and family traditions, and I hope it brings you as much warmth and joy as it brings to our family gatherings. Enjoy!