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–+ servings

Pastitsada — Corfu-Style Braised Beef

Pastitsada is the iconic dish of the island of Corfu — beef braised in a complex spiced tomato sauce with a flavor profile influenced by Venetian rule, uniquely layered with cinnamon, nutmeg, and a touch of vinegar that gives it a bright finish.
Print Recipe
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Greek
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: 450kcal

Ingredients

  • 3 lbs beef chuck cut into large chunks
  • 1 large onion diced
  • 4 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 cup dry red wine
  • 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
  • 1 tsp each ground cinnamon ground allspice, and paprika
  • 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 tsp ground cloves
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 packages hearts of palm pasta (or zucchini noodles to serve)
  • Grated graviera cheese to finish
  • Salt and pepper

Instructions

  • Season beef. Brown in batches in olive oil over high heat in a heavy Dutch oven, 4 minutes per side. Remove.
  • Saute onion until soft. Add garlic and cook 1 minute. Add all spices and stir 30 seconds until fragrant.
  • Deglaze with wine and vinegar. Add crushed tomatoes and bay leaves.
  • Return beef to pot. Bring to a simmer, cover, and braise on very low heat 2.5-3 hours until completely tender.
  • Prepare hearts of palm pasta per package directions. Serve beef and sauce over pasta with generous grated cheese.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 450kcal | Protein: 42g | Fat: 25g | Fiber: 3g
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