This traditional Greek recipe for Beef Kokkinisto, known as Kokkinisto in Greek, offers a delicious taste of the heart of Greek cuisine. The term “Kokkinisto” itself hints at the rich flavour that makes up this beloved slow-cooked dish. In Greek, it means “reddened”, a testament to the deep hues that the tomato-based sauce imbues into the tender beef.
Beef Kokkinisto is a delicious one-pot recipe that is simple to make but needs time to simmer on the stove top for flavour perfection. Because it can simmer all day long, it’s a great dish for family gatherings or lazy Sunday dinners.
While this recipe pays homage to the classic Beef Kokkinisto, it’s worth noting that the beef can be swapped with chicken or lamb, allowing you to tailor the dish to your preferences or ingredient availability.
I share with you my cherished family recipe for Greek Beef in Sauce – my mom’s recipe for Greek Beef in Sauce – Beef Kokkinisto.
Greek Beef in Sauce – Beef Kokkinisto
Ingredients:
- 1 large package stewing beef (about 2 lbs.)
- 1/3 cup extra virgin Greek olive oil
- 1 1/2 medium onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, chopped
- 1 cup tomato puree (not prepared sauce)
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
Method:
- In a pot, brown stewing beef with the olive oil until no longer pink.
- Add the onion to the beef for about 2 minutes.
- Then add garlic and stir. Add salt and black pepper, and cook for 5 minutes.
- Add the tomato puree and water and stir.
- Cover the pot and allow to bowl on low heat for at least three hours.
- Serve over Orzo pasta, and sprinkle with Greek Mizithra cheese if desired.
