Manestra is a comforting Greek staple that marries the richness of slow-braised beef or lamb with the delicate texture of orzo pasta. This dish builds deep flavor by browning the meat with onions and spices before simmering it in a robust tomato sauce. The orzo absorbs the savory juices, creating a thick, satisfying stew that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. It is perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or feeding a hungry family. Garnished with tangy mizithra cheese, this meal offers a perfect balance of protein, carbs, and aromatic herbs like spearmint and cinnamon. It is simple to prepare yet delivers restaurant-quality taste.
Manestra (Meat With Orzo)
Description
Manestra is a comforting Greek staple that marries the richness of slow-braised beef or lamb with the delicate texture of orzo pasta. This dish builds deep flavor by browning the meat with onions and spices before simmering it in a robust tomato sauce. The orzo absorbs the savory juices, creating a thick, satisfying stew that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. It is perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or feeding a hungry family. Garnished with tangy mizithra cheese, this meal offers a perfect balance of protein, carbs, and aromatic herbs like spearmint and cinnamon. It is simple to prepare yet delivers restaurant-quality taste.Ingredients
Directions
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Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
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Add beef or lamb stew meat and chopped onions.
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Brown meat and onions for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
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Stir in tomato sauce, tomato paste, cinnamon, spearmint, and salt.
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Add 2 cups of boiling water to the saucepan.
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Cover and simmer gently for 1 1/2 hours until meat is tender.
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Add the remaining 2 cups of boiling water and bring to a boil.
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Stir in the orzo (manestra).
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Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
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Serve hot topped with grated mizithra cheese.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 337.4kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 21.1g33%
- Saturated Fat 7.4g37%
- Cholesterol 88.5mg30%
- Sodium 5267.6mg220%
- Total Carbohydrate 4.0g2%
- Dietary Fiber 1.0g4%
- Sugars 2.5g
- Protein 30.5g61%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Source: Adapted from "The Complete Greek Cookbook" by Theresa Karas Yianilios.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The orzo will absorb more liquid over time, so you may need to add a splash of water or broth when reheating.
Substitutions: If mizithra is unavailable, feta or kefalotyri cheese are suitable alternatives. You can use either beef or lamb; lamb provides a more traditional Greek flavor.
Tip: Keep an eye on the orzo during the final 20 minutes of cooking to ensure it doesn't become mushy. The dish should be thick but soupy.
