If you’re looking for a traditional Greek dish to try on your next vacation, look no further than Stifado. This classic stew boasts dozens of variations depending on its region and has been a staple of Greek cuisine for centuries. In this blog post, we’ll explore what Stifado is and how it’s made.
What is Stifado?
Stifado is a savory stew typically made with onions, tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, red wine vinegar, bay leaves, cinnamon sticks, ground cloves, and allspice berries. It’s usually served with beef or rabbit but can also be prepared with lamb or pork. The sweetness of the stew comes from the onions that are cooked until they caramelize in the sauce. Variations may include the addition of honey or raisins to balance out its flavors.
How It’s Made
The key to making great Stifado starts with selecting high-quality ingredients and allowing them to simmer in their juices for several hours. The onions are fried in olive oil until they are lightly browned and fragrant before adding additional ingredients like garlic cloves and tomato paste (or fresh tomatoes). Red wine vinegar adds an acidic element to balance the sweetness of the onions, while spices like bay leaves, cinnamon sticks, ground cloves, and allspice berries add layers of flavor to round out the dish. Once the ingredients are added together, they can simmer for several hours until it’s thick and flavorful.
Variations of Stifado
As mentioned previously, there are many variations on Stifado depending on where it’s being prepared. In some regions, it may include honey or raisins. At the same time, others may add potatoes or carrots instead of tomato paste or fresh tomatoes to thicken up the sauce without adding too much acidity. Additionally, some cooks will replace red wine vinegar with white wine or balsamic vinegar, which can also give this classic dish an exciting twist.
No matter which version you prefer, Stifado remains one of Greece’s most beloved dishes that can easily be prepared using simple ingredients!
Final Thoughts:
Stifado is an incredibly versatile dish that has stood the test of time thanks to its delicious combination of sweet onions and savory spices like bay leaves and cinnamon sticks. Whether you make your variation at home or order it off a menu during your next trip abroad, you won’t be disappointed by this traditional Greek specialty! So why not give Stifado a try today? You won’t regret it!
Stifado Recipe: Food.com
