Name: Kokkinisto: An Incredible Ultimate Greek Stew Experience Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 2 h 30 min
Total time: 2 h 50 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 2 pounds beef chuck or lamb shoulder, cut into large chunks; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 1 large onion, finely chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 large carrots, sliced; 1 stick celery, diced; 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 cup red wine; 2 cups beef broth; 2 bay leaves; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/2 teaspoon allspice; 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper; 1 1/2 teaspoons salt; 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

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If you’re searching for the ultimate comfort food with a taste of the Mediterranean, look no further: Kokkinisto: An Incredible Ultimate Greek Stew Experience is the cozy, flavorsome dish that Greeks have cherished for generations. Imagine bite-sized chunks of tender beef or lamb, simmered in a tomato-rich sauce infused with cinnamon, allspice, and herbs, all coming together in a dish that is both heartwarming and unforgettable. Whether you’re longing for a nourishing family dinner or an impressive meal for friends, this stew delivers culinary magic in every spoonful.

Kokkinisto: An Incredible Ultimate Greek Stew Experience Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Kokkinisto: An Incredible Ultimate Greek Stew Experience lies in its carefully chosen ingredients. Each item brings something unique: rich protein, aromatic veggies, or the bold warmth of Mediterranean spices. Gather these kitchen staples and get ready to transform them into a symphony of deep flavors and tender textures.

Beef chuck or lamb shoulder (2 pounds): Opt for well-marbled cuts; slow simmering makes them irresistibly tender and juicy.
Olive oil (3 tablespoons): The backbone of Greek cooking that adds silkiness and brings the flavors together beautifully.
Large onion, finely chopped (1): Brings sweetness and depth to the base of your stew.
Garlic cloves, minced (4): Essential for building a rich, savory aroma.
Large carrots, sliced (2): Their natural sweetness balances the acidity of tomatoes and wine.
Celery stick, diced (1): Adds a subtle, earthy complexity and gentle texture.
Crushed tomatoes (1 can, 28 ounces): The foundation of the sauce that gives Kokkinisto its signature red hue—a true “kokkino” color!
Tomato paste (2 tablespoons): Deepens color and enhances the umami in your stew.
Red wine (1 cup): Lends body and a rich, slightly tangy taste to the sauce; choose a dry red for best results.
Beef broth (2 cups): Provides a savory backbone while ensuring the meat stays succulent.
Bay leaves (2): Add subtle herbal notes as the stew simmers away.
Ground cinnamon (1 teaspoon): Offers an unmistakable Greek flare—just a hint brings warmth and depth.
Dried oregano (1 teaspoon): Earthy, floral, and a true Mediterranean essential.
Allspice (1/2 teaspoon): Boosts the aromatic blend, marrying the sweet and savory spices seamlessly.
Ground black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Rounds out the flavors with just the right touch of heat.
Salt (1 1/2 teaspoons): To season and awaken all the other flavors.
Red wine vinegar (2 tablespoons): Brightens and balances, cutting through the richness perfectly at the end.
Fresh parsley, chopped (2 tablespoons): Sprinkled on before serving for a burst of color and freshness.

How to Make Kokkinisto: An Incredible Ultimate Greek Stew Experience

Step 1: Sear the Meat for Maximum Flavor

Begin by heating the olive oil in a large heavy pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef chuck or lamb shoulder pieces in batches, being careful not to crowd the pot. Let each piece develop a gorgeous golden crust before turning it. This step is a bit of extra work, but it builds a deep, meaty flavor that forms the hearty foundation of Kokkinisto: An Incredible Ultimate Greek Stew Experience. Remove the browned meat and set aside while you move on.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pot, toss in the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and diced celery. Cook these for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until they soften and their fragrances fill your kitchen. This aromatic base is the secret to that cozy, layered flavor profile you’ll taste in every bite.

Step 3: Build the Tomato Base

Next, stir in the tomato paste and let it cook for a minute or so. This helps to caramelize the paste slightly, intensifying its sweetness and richness. Deglaze the pot with a splash of red wine, scraping up those delightful brown bits—this is pure flavor! Pour in the crushed tomatoes and beef broth, and then add the bay leaves, ground cinnamon, oregano, allspice, salt, and pepper.

Step 4: Simmer to Perfection

Return the browned meat (and any juices) right into the pot. Give everything a gentle stir, bring to a simmer, and then cover with a lid. Reduce the heat to low and let your Kokkinisto: An Incredible Ultimate Greek Stew Experience bubble away for 2 to 2 1/2 hours. Stir occasionally and be patient; you want the beef or lamb to become melt-in-your-mouth tender and let the sauce thicken into a glossy, deep red blanket.

Step 5: Add the Finishing Touches

About five minutes before serving, remove the bay leaves and stir in the red wine vinegar. This little splash brightens the stew and balances the richness, making every spoonful lively and well-rounded. Garnish generously with chopped fresh parsley just before serving for that final pop of freshness and color. Your Kokkinisto: An Incredible Ultimate Greek Stew Experience is now ready—relish every bite!

How to Serve Kokkinisto: An Incredible Ultimate Greek Stew Experience

Garnishes

An eye-catching sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley does more than just look pretty—it brings a welcome burst of freshness, cutting through the hearty stew. A dusting of cracked black pepper or a drizzle of good olive oil right before serving elevates each bowl with a restaurant-worthy finish. If you’d like even more color, top with a few thin lemon zest strips for a gentle citrusy lift.

Side Dishes

Traditionally, Kokkinisto pairs beautifully with simple sides that soak up its luscious sauce. Think silky mashed potatoes, pillowy rice, or classic orzo pasta. Crusty, rustic bread is always a winner—perfect for mopping up every last bit of that beautiful tomato sauce. For a lighter touch, a crisp green salad tossed with lemon and olive oil brings balance and brightens the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party twist, serve individual portions of Kokkinisto in small cast iron crocks or wide-mouthed bowls over a nest of buttered noodles or creamy polenta. Try making miniature savory pies using puff pastry or pair your stew with feta cheese and olives for a mezze-style spread. However you present it, you’ll find plenty of ways for Kokkinisto: An Incredible Ultimate Greek Stew Experience to impress both eyes and appetites!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. The best part? Kokkinisto: An Incredible Ultimate Greek Stew Experience actually tastes even better the next day, as the flavors mingle and deepen! Simply chill, then reheat whenever you need a quick, comforting meal.

Freezing

Kokkinisto freezes wonderfully. Once completely cooled, transfer portions into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags, leaving a bit of space for expansion. It keeps well for up to three months. Defrost overnight in the fridge for best texture and flavor, then reheat and enjoy whenever the Greek food craving strikes!

Reheating

To reheat, place the stew in a pot over low heat and let it warm gently, stirring now and then to keep the sauce from sticking. If needed, add a splash of water or broth to loosen up the sauce. For single servings, the microwave works too—just use a covered dish and heat in short bursts, stirring in between until piping hot. Kokkinisto: An Incredible Ultimate Greek Stew Experience tastes as amazing reheated as it does fresh!

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of meat?

Absolutely! While beef chuck and lamb shoulder are traditional and become wonderfully tender, you could try pork shoulder or even chicken thighs for a lighter, quicker variation. The stew’s flavor profile is adaptable, but heartier cuts really shine here.

Is it possible to make Kokkinisto in a slow cooker?

Yes, it’s a fantastic option. Simply brown the meat and sauté the aromatics as usual, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours, or until the meat falls apart. The slow cooking really intensifies the flavors—including the signature elements of Kokkinisto: An Incredible Ultimate Greek Stew Experience!

What type Main Course, Stew

A dry, medium-bodied Greek red (like Agiorgitiko) is fabulous, but any dry red wine will do. Avoid sweet wines, as the stew is perfectly balanced with the natural sweetness of veggies and tomato already.

Can this stew be made vegetarian?

It sure can! Simply substitute the meat with a medley of mushrooms, white beans, or eggplant and adjust the simmering time. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth, and you’ll still get to savor a rich, satisfying Kokkinisto: An Incredible Ultimate Greek Stew Experience—no meat required.

How do I prevent my stew from being too thin or too thick?

If your stew looks thin after simmering, remove the lid and let it cook uncovered until it thickens to your liking. If it’s too thick, just stir in a little extra broth or water. The texture should be rich and spoon-coating, but never stodgy.

Final Thoughts

I hope you feel inspired to gather your ingredients and treat yourself to Kokkinisto: An Incredible Ultimate Greek Stew Experience. Each simmering pot is a portal to Greek kitchens, where flavors are bold and hospitality is everything. Don’t hesitate—this is a dish you’ll cherish and want to share, again and again!

Kokkinisto: An Incredible Ultimate Greek Stew Experience Recipe

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4.8 from 8 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 2 hours 50 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Kokkinisto is a traditional Greek stew that offers a rich and hearty dining experience. This flavorful dish features tender beef or lamb cooked in a savory tomato-based sauce with a hint of cinnamon and oregano, creating a truly comforting meal that pairs perfectly with pasta, rice, or crusty bread.

Ingredients

Scale

Beef Stew:

2 pounds beef chuck or lamb shoulder, cut into large chunks
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 large onion, finely chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 large carrots, sliced
1 stick celery, diced

Sauce:

1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 cup red wine
2 cups beef broth
2 bay leaves
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon allspice
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

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Instructions

Brown the Meat: Heat olive oil in a large pot, brown beef/lamb, set aside.
Sauté Vegetables: In the same pot, cook onion, garlic, carrots, and celery.
Add Flavor: Stir in tomato paste, then deglaze with red wine.
Cook the Stew: Add crushed tomatoes, broth, spices, and return meat to pot. Simmer for 2-2.5 hours.
Finish and Serve: Stir in red wine vinegar, garnish with parsley, and serve hot.