Kokkinisto: An Incredible Ultimate Greek Stew Experience Recipe
Get ready to cozy up to Kokkinisto: An Incredible Ultimate Greek Stew Experience, a dish that wraps you in the warmth of sun-drenched Greek kitchens and Sunday family dinners. This tomato-rich beef stew is simmered low and slow with aromatic spices and a splash of red wine, transforming humble ingredients into a meal that feels both rustic and truly special. Whether you’re craving a comforting bowl for a chilly evening or looking to impress friends with classic Greek flavors, this stew never disappoints—it’s hearty, full of soul, and simply unforgettable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Kokkinisto: An Incredible Ultimate Greek Stew Experience lies in its simplicity—each ingredient is chosen for the way it deepens the flavor, adds to the texture, or brightens the color of the final dish. Don’t skip or swap anything if you want to capture that authentic, irresistible Greek taste!
- Beef chuck or stew meat (2 pounds): Choose well-marbled cuts for meltingly tender bites after a long simmer.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): The foundation of any Greek stew, it adds fruity richness and helps brown the beef beautifully.
- Large onion, finely chopped (1): Onions add natural sweetness and body to the sauce as they cook down.
- Garlic cloves, minced (4): Four cloves might sound bold, but they mellow perfectly in the stew, providing deep savory notes.
- Red wine (1/2 cup): Adds complexity and acidity, balancing the richness of the beef and tomatoes.
- Crushed tomatoes, canned (14-ounce): The backbone of the signature red sauce—use the best quality you can find.
- Tomato paste (2 tablespoons): For extra depth and a gorgeous color boost.
- Ground cinnamon (1 teaspoon): Just a hint transforms the stew with subtle warmth and a classic Greek aroma.
- Ground cloves (1/2 teaspoon): Essential for that unmistakable Mediterranean flavor—don’t skip it!
- Bay leaf (1): Infuses the sauce with herbal complexity as it simmers.
- Sugar (1/2 teaspoon): Just enough to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Brings all the flavors into perfect harmony.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): For a gentle kick and earthy depth.
- Beef broth or water (1 1/2 cups): Keeps the stew luscious and helps the beef become fork-tender.
- Optional garnish—chopped parsley or crumbled feta: A final flourish of freshness or creamy tang, depending on your mood.
How to Make Kokkinisto: An Incredible Ultimate Greek Stew Experience
Step 1: Sear the Beef
Start by heating olive oil in a sturdy Dutch oven or heavy pot over medium-high heat. Working in batches, brown the beef cubes on all sides, giving them space so they caramelize instead of steaming. This step is where the magic begins—the deep, savory crust you build here will infuse the entire Kokkinisto: An Incredible Ultimate Greek Stew Experience with extra flavor. Once each batch is browned, transfer the beef to a plate and resist the urge to nibble!
Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic
Lower the heat to medium and add your finely chopped onion to the same pot. Sauté for 5–6 minutes until it turns golden and soft, scraping up any flavorful brown bits from the bottom. Toss in the minced garlic and stir for just a minute, filling your kitchen with that irresistible aroma that signals something delicious is on its way.
Step 3: Build the Tomato Base
Next, stir in the tomato paste and let it cook for a minute or two. This quick step deepens the tomato flavor and gives your stew that gorgeous red color that defines a true Kokkinisto: An Incredible Ultimate Greek Stew Experience. Pour in the red wine to deglaze the pot, scraping up every last bit of flavor, and let it simmer for a couple of minutes to mellow the acidity.
Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Spices
Now, tip in the crushed tomatoes, then add cinnamon, ground cloves, the bay leaf, sugar, salt, and black pepper. These spices are the heartbeat of the dish—they’ll fill your home with the cozy, unmistakable scent of Greek comfort food. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed.
Step 5: Simmer to Perfection
Return the browned beef (and any accumulated juices) to the pot, then pour in the beef broth. Give everything a good stir, bring it up to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the stew simmer away for 2 to 2.5 hours, stirring occasionally. The beef will become meltingly tender, and the sauce will thicken into a rich, brick-red blanket of flavor. If the sauce gets too thick, just add a splash of water. Don’t forget to fish out the bay leaf before serving!
How to Serve Kokkinisto: An Incredible Ultimate Greek Stew Experience
Garnishes
A finishing touch can elevate your Kokkinisto: An Incredible Ultimate Greek Stew Experience from comforting to positively show-stopping. Try a shower of fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and brightness, or crumble some tangy feta over each bowl for a savory, creamy kick. Both options add a final layer of flavor that brings out the best in every bite.
Side Dishes
This stew loves company! Serve it over buttery mashed potatoes, fluffy rice, or ribbons of pasta to soak up all that glorious sauce. Crusty bread is non-negotiable for sopping up every drop. If you’re feeling truly traditional, pair with a simple Greek salad or roasted seasonal vegetables—freshness balances out the richness perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Impress your guests by serving Kokkinisto: An Incredible Ultimate Greek Stew Experience in shallow bowls, sprinkled with fresh herbs and a swirl of extra-virgin olive oil. For a more rustic vibe, ladle it into a communal pot at the center of the table, letting everyone serve themselves family-style. You can even fill small ramekins for individual portions at a dinner party—the aroma alone will have everyone swooning!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Kokkinisto: An Incredible Ultimate Greek Stew Experience is a true friend in the fridge—it actually tastes better the next day! Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. The flavors will deepen, making for even more satisfying leftovers that are perfect for easy lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
This stew is absolutely freezer-friendly. Once cooled, spoon portions into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving a little space for expansion. Freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready for that Greek comfort fix, just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the stew in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the sauce. Stir occasionally and heat until piping hot throughout. If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works too—just cover and heat in short bursts, stirring between each, so the beef stays tender and juicy.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef?
Absolutely! While beef chuck is classic for Kokkinisto: An Incredible Ultimate Greek Stew Experience, any well-marbled stew meat works—think brisket or even short ribs. Just avoid lean cuts, as they can get tough with long cooking.
What if I don’t want to use wine?
If you prefer to skip the wine, simply swap in extra beef broth or water. The stew will still be delicious, though a splash of wine adds lovely depth and authenticity to the flavor profile.
Can I make Kokkinisto in a slow cooker?
Yes! After searing the beef and sautéing the aromatics as described, transfer everything to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 7–8 hours until the beef is fork-tender. You’ll still get that classic Kokkinisto: An Incredible Ultimate Greek Stew Experience, just with a hands-off approach.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, it’s naturally gluten-free! As always, double-check labels on your canned tomatoes, broth, and tomato paste for any hidden gluten, especially if you’re cooking for someone with celiac disease or a serious allergy.
What’s the best way to serve leftovers?
Leftover Kokkinisto: An Incredible Ultimate Greek Stew Experience is amazing over anything from buttered noodles to polenta. You can even tuck it into pita bread or spoon it over roasted vegetables for a completely new meal!
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a dish that’s equal parts crowd-pleaser and soul-soother, you have to try Kokkinisto: An Incredible Ultimate Greek Stew Experience. It’s a labor of love that rewards you with bold flavors, tender meat, and a true taste of Greek hospitality—so gather your loved ones, pour a glass of wine, and savor every bite!
Print
Kokkinisto: An Incredible Ultimate Greek Stew Experience Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Kokkinisto is a traditional Greek beef stew that features tender chunks of beef slow-cooked in a rich tomato sauce infused with warm spices like cinnamon and cloves. This comforting dish, perfect for cozy dinners, combines the deep flavors of red wine, garlic, and tomato to create an exquisite taste experience that pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or crusty bread.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 pounds beef chuck or stew meat, cut into large cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup red wine
- 1 (14-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 bay leaf
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 1/2 cups beef broth or water
Optional Garnish
- Chopped parsley
- Crumbled feta cheese
Instructions
- Sear the Beef: Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy pot over medium-high heat. Sear the beef cubes in batches until browned on all sides, then transfer them to a plate to set aside.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: Lower the heat to medium and add the finely chopped onion to the pot. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes until softened, then add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add Tomato Paste and Deglaze: Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 to 2 minutes to deepen its flavor. Pour in the red wine and deglaze the pot by scraping up the browned bits from the bottom. Let the wine simmer for 2 to 3 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Add Seasonings and Tomatoes: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, bay leaf, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine all the flavors.
- Combine Beef and Broth: Return the seared beef cubes to the pot and pour in the beef broth or water. Stir gently to incorporate all the ingredients evenly.
- Simmer the Stew: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the pot and let the stew simmer gently for 2 to 2.5 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender and the sauce is thickened. Stir occasionally and add a splash of water if the sauce becomes too thick. Remove and discard the bay leaf before serving.
- Serve: Serve the kokkinisto hot over your choice of pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread. Garnish with chopped parsley or crumbled feta cheese if desired.
Notes
- For an even richer flavor, marinate the beef in red wine and garlic for a few hours before cooking.
- This stew tastes better the next day, making it ideal for meal prep or entertaining guests.
- You can substitute beef broth with water if preferred, though broth adds more depth to the flavor.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste, especially salt and pepper.
- Serve with starches like pasta, rice, or potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Greek
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
