Introduction
Greek Beef Stifado is one of those timeless dishes that wraps you in warmth with every bite. Traditionally slow-cooked for hours, this version uses the Instant Pot to create that same deep, rich flavor in a fraction of the time. The beef is fall-apart tender, the pearl onions are sweet and caramelized, and the sauce is spiced with cinnamon, allspice, and oreganofor a distinctly Mediterranean flair.
Perfect for chilly evenings or when you’re craving something soulful but short on time, this stew is made for serving over rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread.
Why I Love This Recipe
This stifado hits every note of cozy, hearty, and flavorful comfort food. And the Instant Pot makes it weeknight-accessible without compromising taste.
- Beef is melt-in-your-mouth tender
- Pearl onions add subtle sweetness
- Tomato and spice-rich sauce tastes like it simmered all day
- Hands-off cooking—just sauté, seal, and walk away
It’s also a perfect recipe for meal prep or feeding a crowd.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 lbs (900g) beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 1 lb pearl onions or small shallots, peeled
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup red wine vinegar
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp allspice
- 1 bay leaf
- 2 cups beef broth
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Swaps & Notes
- No pearl onions? Use small whole shallots or quartered regular onions.
- Want it thicker? Let the stew simmer on Sauté mode after cooking to reduce the sauce.
- No red wine vinegar? Try balsamic for a sweeter depth.
- Low-carb serving idea: Spoon over cauliflower mash or roasted vegetables.
Step-by-Step Instructions
✅ 1. Sear the Beef
Turn your Instant Pot to Sauté mode. Add olive oil, then sear the beef cubes in batches until browned. Set beef aside.
✅ 2. Sauté the Onions
Add the chopped onion and pearl onions to the pot. Cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.
Add garlic and sauté for another 1 minute.
✅ 3. Add Sauce Ingredients
Stir in:
- Tomato paste
- Crushed tomatoes
- Red wine vinegar
- Cinnamon, oregano, allspice
- Bay leaf
Mix well to combine.
✅ 4. Return the Beef & Add Broth
Add the browned beef back to the pot. Pour in beef broth.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
✅ 5. Pressure Cook
Seal the lid and set valve to Sealing.
Pressure cook on High for 35 minutes. Let pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then do a quick release.
✅ 6. Finish and Serve
Discard the bay leaf. Stir well and taste for seasoning.
Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.
Tips for Success
- Brown the beef well—this boosts flavor in the finished dish.
- Peeling pearl onions is easier after a quick blanch in hot water.
- If serving with bread, toast it lightly to soak up the sauce.
- Make ahead—flavors deepen after a day in the fridge.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
Serve this Greek classic with:
- Fluffy rice, mashed potatoes, or orzo pasta
- A refreshing side like Blueberry Lemonade
- Comfort classics like Easy Turkey Wings for a multi-course meal
- A game-day starter like Beer Cheese Dip
- Sweet finish with Chocolate Chip Cookie Bites
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze in portions for up to 2 months.
- Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.
This dish tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.
More Recipes You’ll Love
- Instant Pot Lasagna – another pressure cooker hit
- Easy Turkey Wings
- Beer Cheese Dip
- Blueberry Lemonade
- Chocolate Chip Cookie Bites
Final Thoughts
This Instant Pot Greek Beef Stifado is the kind of dish that tastes like it’s been simmering all day, but comes together with modern ease. Rich, spiced, and utterly satisfying, it’s the perfect fusion of tradition and convenience.
Tried it? Tag @chefmaniac with your stifado creations or leave a comment with your twist. And don’t forget to follow for more globally inspired Instant Pot recipes!
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