- Cheese (for topping or serving as cheese-based stifado)
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Steps
### How to Make a Delicious Beef Stifado Cheese: A Step-by-Step Guide
#### Introduction
Beef Stifado is a traditional Greek dish that combines tender beef, vegetables, and a rich tomato sauce. Adding cheese makes it even more indulgent! This recipe will guide you through creating a hearty and flavorful beef stifado with cheese.
#### Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) of chuck roast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 can (14 oz/397g) diced tomatoes with their juice
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon sweet paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup grated feta cheese or a combination of mozzarella and parmesan
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
#### Equipment Needed
- Large pot or Dutch oven with lid
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Measuring spoons
- Wooden spoon
### Step-by-Step Instructions
1. **Preparation**
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the beef pieces in a large bowl and pour over 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Season with salt and pepper, then mix well.
2. **Cooking the Beef**
- Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Add the seasoned beef to the pot and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the cooked beef from the pot and set aside.
3. **Sauté Vegetables**
- In the same pot, add the chopped onion and sauté for 5 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. **Creating the Sauce**
- Add the sliced bell peppers to the pot along with the beef broth, diced tomatoes (including their juice), tomato paste, and sweet paprika.
- Return the cooked beef to the pot, bring to a simmer, then cover and reduce heat to low.
5. **Simmering the Dish**
- Allow the stifado to cook for about 1 hour until the beef is tender, stirring occasionally.
6. **Adding Cheese**
- Remove the lid from the pot and increase the heat slightly.
- Stir in the grated cheese and let it melt into the sauce, ensuring it’s well incorporated and creamy.
7. **Baking (Optional)**
- Transfer the stifado to a baking dish if desired for added richness. Cover loosely with foil or parchment paper and bake in the preheated oven for 20-30 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Alternatively, you can serve it directly from the pot.
8. **Final Steps**
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
9. **Serving Suggestions**
- Serve hot over a bed of steamed rice or pasta.
- Pair with a simple green salad for a complete meal.
#### Tips
- Ensure your beef is well-seasoned before cooking to enhance the flavor profile.
- Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best results in this dish.
### Conclusion
Enjoy your homemade beef stifado cheese, a perfect blend of comfort and flavor. This dish is not only delicious but also easy to prepare. Perfect for special occasions or a comforting weeknight meal!
By following these detailed steps, you can create a hearty and flavorful beef stifado that is sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy your cooking!