Cozy Greek Manestra: A Hearty One-Pot Delight

Greek Manestra is a comforting one-pot dish that combines beef or lamb with orzo in a delicious tomato sauce.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 1

Resting Time 5

Total Time 1 15

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Greek

Calories: 480

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

For the Base

2 tablespoons Olive Oil Essential for sautéing meat and vegetables; can swap for neutral oil.
1 pound Beef or Lamb Ground meat works too or omit for a vegetarian option.
1 Onion Finely chopped for quicker cooking.
3 Garlic Minced; fresh is best for maximum flavor.
2 tablespoons Tomato Paste Cook briefly to boost taste.
28 ounces Crushed Tomatoes Diced tomatoes can be used as a substitute.
1 cup Water or Broth Helps loosen the sauce for perfect consistency.

For the Seasoning

1 Bay Leaf Imparts aromatic flavor; remember to remove before serving.
1 pinch Cinnamon A signature touch to the dish.
to taste Salt and Pepper Essential for enhancing flavors.

For the Pasta & Garnish

1 cup Orzo Absorbs delicious flavors; can substitute with small pasta.
to taste Fresh Parsley Optional garnish for freshness.

Equipment

large pot

Method

Step-by-Step Instructions

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat in a large pot. Add 1 pound of chopped beef or lamb, searing until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
Reduce the heat and add 1 finely chopped onion and 3 minced garlic cloves. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent.
Stir in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste for about 1 minute. Then add a 28-ounce can of crushed tomatoes and a splash of water or broth.
Introduce a bay leaf, a pinch of cinnamon, and salt and pepper. Simmer the mix, reducing to low heat. Cover and cook for 25-30 minutes.
Stir in 1 cup of orzo, ensuring enough liquid for even cooking. Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring regularly.
Remove from heat once the orzo is tender. Let sit for a few minutes, discard the bay leaf, and garnish with parsley.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 480kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 5gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 6mgIron: 20mg

Notes

For best texture, stir orzo frequently while cooking. Adjust sauce consistency with broth or water if needed. Vegetarian version available by omitting meat and using vegetable broth.

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