Youvetsi Greek Beef Lamb Orzo Stew

Name: Youvetsi Greek Beef Lamb Orzo Stew – Easy Meal Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Yield: 6
Ingredients: Before we roll up our sleeves, let’s take a look at what you will need:; A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil; 1 pound of boneless lamb shoulder; Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste; 2 large yellow onions, finely diced; 4 garlic cloves, crushed and minced; 1 cup of dry red wine; 28 ounces canned whole San Marzano tomatoes, crushed by hand; 1 teaspoon of dried oregano; 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon of freshly grated nutmeg; 1 bay leaf; 1 cup of uncooked orzo pasta; 1 teaspoon of lemon zest; 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes; 1/2 cup of fresh flat-leaf parsley, chopped; Crumbled feta cheese

Last Updated on September 1, 2025

Youvetsi Greek Beef Lamb Orzo Stew is hearty and comforting, making it an excellent dish for a cozy dinner. To complete your meal, consider serving it with:

Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty loaf is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce. Sourdough or a rustic wholegrain bread will work wonderfully.
Greek Salad: A refreshing Greek salad, with tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta dressed in olive oil and lemon, adds a bright contrast.
Roasted Vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables, like zucchini, bell peppers, and Brussels sprouts, bring extra flavor and nutrients to your plate.

Let’s dive deeper into the irresistible Youvetsi stew!

Every culture has its comfort food, and for many Greeks, Youvetsi is at the top of the list. Imagine a dish that warms the soul, filled with tender meat, perfectly cooked orzo, and rich, aromatic spices. This dish is much more than just a meal; it’s an experience, and I can assure you, every bite transports you straight to the sun-kissed shores of Greece. Having tried this dish countless times, I can confidently say it’s a recipe you want to add to your rotation.

What is Youvetsi Greek Beef Lamb Orzo Stew?

Youvetsi is a traditional Greek dish that combines beef or lamb with orzo pasta. The meat is slowly cooked until it becomes tender, while the orzo cooks in the same pot, soaking up all those delicious flavors. It’s an all-in-one meal that feels both luxurious and homey at the same time. This dish is typically seasoned with aromatic herbs and spices, which not only enhance the meat but also create a savory sauce that’s simply irresistible.

Why This Recipe Works?

There are countless recipes out there, but here’s why this Youvetsi Greek Beef Lamb Orzo Stew stands out:

1. Rich Flavor Profile: The combination of red wine, tomatoes, and warm spices brings a depth of flavor that is both comforting and satisfying. This dish is a testament to how simple ingredients can create something extraordinary.

2. One-Pot Wonder: Cooking everything in one pot means less cleanup—a win-win for any busy home cook. You can focus more on enjoying the meal and less on scrubbing pots later.

3. Versatile Ingredients: The versatility in this recipe allows you to personalize it according to your taste. Whether you prefer lamb or beef, you can adjust the flavors with spices depending on your preferences.

4. Perfect for Meal Prep: Youvetsi tastes even better the next day. Making it in bulk and storing leftovers means you have a delicious meal ready to go at any time.

Ingredients You’ll Need to Make This Dish

Before we roll up our sleeves, let’s take a look at what you will need:

A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil
1 pound of boneless lamb shoulder (or lamb leg), trimmed and cut into small 1-inch pieces
Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
2 large yellow onions, finely diced
4 garlic cloves, crushed and minced
1 cup of dry red wine
28 ounces canned whole San Marzano tomatoes, crushed by hand
1 teaspoon of dried oregano
1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon of freshly grated nutmeg
1 bay leaf
1 cup of uncooked orzo pasta
1 teaspoon of lemon zest
1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (for subtle heat, optional)
1/2 cup of fresh flat-leaf parsley, chopped
Crumbled feta cheese (optional, for garnish)

How to Make Youvetsi Greek Beef Lamb Orzo Stew?

Let’s jump into the cooking part! The process is straightforward, and before you know it, you’ll have a delightful meal.

Step 1: Prepare the Meat

In a large pot, heat a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the lamb pieces generously with salt and pepper. Once the oil is hot, add the meat in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. Sear them until they’re nicely browned on all sides, which should take about 5-7 minutes. This step locks in the flavors.

Step 2: Add Aromatics

Remove the lamb from the pot and set it aside. In the same pot, add the diced onions and cook until they’re translucent. This usually takes about 5 minutes. Toss in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes. You want those aromatic flavors to fill your kitchen!

Step 3: Incorporate Liquids

Pour in the dry red wine, scraping up any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom of the pot. Let it simmer for about 3-4 minutes until it reduces slightly. This step enhances the overall flavor of the stew.

Step 4: Simmer with Tomatoes and Spices

Add the crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, smoked paprika, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and bay leaf. Stir everything well, and add back the browned lamb. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer for about 1.5 hours. This slow cooking allows the meat to become tender and absorb the rich spices.

Step 5: Add Orzo

Once the meat is tender, stir in the uncooked orzo. Ensure it’s evenly distributed throughout the stew. Cover and let it simmer for an additional 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the orzo to cook perfectly and absorb the delicious sauce.

Step 6: Finish Off

After the orzo is cooked, remove the pot from heat. Stir in the lemon zest and red pepper flakes for a pop of brightness and warmth. Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper, if needed.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Ladle the stew into bowls, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and if you fancy, add crumbled feta cheese on top for an extra layer of flavor.

How to make Youvetsi Greek Beef Lamb Orzo Stew

Tips & Tricks

Here are some handy tips to enhance your Youvetsi experience:

Quality Ingredients Matter: Opt for high-quality meat and good canned tomatoes. This can significantly impact the flavor.
Don’t Skip the Browning Step: Searing the meat adds a delicious depth of flavor. It’s a crucial step for a savory stew.
Adjust Spice Levels: If you like heat, don’t hesitate to up the amount of red pepper flakes! Taste as you go to ensure you hit your sweet spot.
Use Fresh Herbs for Garnish: Fresh herbs not only make your plate look appealing but also elevate the flavors.
Make it Ahead: This dish can be made a day in advance. The flavors continue to develop, and it’s perfect for a cozy dinner the next day.

Nutrition Information

This dish provides a well-rounded nutrition profile. Each serving is packed with protein from the lamb, carbohydrates from the orzo, and a variety of vitamins from the tomatoes and herbs.

Calories: Approximately 520 per serving
Protein: 35g
Fat: 18g
Carbohydrates: 50g
Fiber: 3g

Youvetsi Greek Beef Lamb Orzo Stew Recipe

How Do You Store the Leftovers?

Storing leftovers is easy. Allow the stew to cool down before transferring it into an airtight container. It can last in the fridge for about 3-4 days. If you need a longer shelf life, consider freezing it. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

What Sides Would Complement Youvetsi Greek Beef Lamb Orzo Stew?

Aside from the options already mentioned, here are additional sides that would go beautifully with your meal:

Tzatziki: This refreshing yogurt and cucumber dip pairs perfectly. It cools the palate and adds a tangy twist.
Lemon Roasted Potatoes: These potatoes are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. Their zesty flavor compliments the rich stew.
Spanakopita: These flaky spinach pies provide a delightful crunch and pack a veggie punch. They also make the meal more traditional.

What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients If They Are Not Present in Your Kitchen?

Sometimes you might not have every ingredient on hand. No worries! Here are alternatives to keep the dish intact:

For Lamb: You can substitute boneless beef chuck or even chicken thighs as they will still yield tender, flavorful meat.
For Red Wine: If you don’t have red wine, use beef broth with a tablespoon of balsamic vinegar to achieve the depth without the alcohol.
For Orzo: If orzo isn’t available, you can use any small pasta like ditalini or even rice—just adjust cooking time as needed.
For Italian Seasonings: If you’re out of dried oregano, thyme or Italian seasoning can be great substitutes, bringing a similar flavor profile.

Conclusion

Youvetsi Greek Beef Lamb Orzo Stew is a sensational dish that warms both the body and soul. With its rich flavors, hearty ingredients, and simple preparation, it’s a recipe worth trying. Whether you whip it up for a family dinner or a cozy gathering, I guarantee hearts will be full and plates will be clean. Give this recipe a try and embrace the flavors of Greece right in your kitchen. Happy cooking!

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Youvetsi Greek Beef Lamb Orzo Stew – Easy Meal Recipe

Author: Mary Siegel Cuisine: Greek Courses: Main Course

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 30 mins Cook Time 1 hr Total Time 1 hr 30 mins

Servings: 6 Calories: 520

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

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