Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup red wine (optional, but adds depth)
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
If you’re out of beef chuck, lamb or chicken thighs are great substitutes, offering a different yet equally delicious experience. The use of cinnamon might surprise you, but trust me, it adds a unique warmth reminiscent of my abuela’s secret spice blends.
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes, searing them until browned on all sides. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Remove the beef and set aside.
- In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about 3 minutes.
- Pour in the red wine, if using, and let it simmer for about 2 minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot for extra flavor.
- Return the beef to the pot and add the beef broth, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer gently for about 1 1/2 hours, or until the beef is tender.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the beef mixture to a large baking dish, stir in the orzo, and cover with foil.
- Bake in the oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy!
Remember, cooking is an art, and like my abuela taught me, it’s okay to follow your senses. If the aroma calls for a bit more oregano or a sprinkle of nutmeg, go for it!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International