If you’re looking for a hearty and flavorful meal, beef stifado is a great option.
This traditional Greek meat stew is packed with tender beef and loads of little onions, all cooked in a rich and aromatic tomato sauce.
But what should you serve with it to make it a complete meal? There are plenty of delicious options to choose from, including creamy mashed potatoes, lemon rice, orzo pasta, roasted veggies, and even fried feta.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the best side dishes to pair with beef stifado and provide you with tried and tested recipes to recreate at home.
So grab a fork and let’s dig in!
What To Serve With Beef Stifado?
When it comes to serving beef stifado, there are a variety of options to choose from. Traditionally, this dish is served with orzo pasta, rice, hilopittes (egg pasta), or fries.
For a comforting and hearty meal, consider pairing your beef stifado with creamy mashed potatoes. This classic side dish is the perfect complement to the rich and flavorful stew. You can try a traditional version with butter or mix things up with a Greek yogurt mashed potato recipe.
If you’re looking for something a little lighter, lemon rice is a great option. This fragrant and zesty rice dish adds a refreshing contrast to the savory beef stifado. You can also serve it plainly with rice or even noodles for a simple yet satisfying meal.
For those who love roasted vegetables, consider adding some to your plate alongside your beef stifado. Roasting veggies like carrots, potatoes, and bell peppers can add some color and texture to your meal while also providing some extra nutrients.
If you’re feeling adventurous, try serving your beef stifado with fried feta. This crispy and salty cheese is a popular Greek appetizer that pairs well with the rich flavors of the stew.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes
Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with beef stifado. The smooth and velvety texture of the mashed potatoes complements the tender and flavorful beef stew.
To make creamy mashed potatoes, start by boiling peeled and diced potatoes in salted water until they are tender. Drain the water and mash the potatoes with a potato masher or a fork. Add some butter, milk, and salt to taste, and continue mashing until the potatoes are smooth and creamy.
For a Greek twist on the classic mashed potatoes, try adding some Greek yogurt to the mix. This adds a tangy flavor and a creamy texture to the potatoes. You can also add some garlic or herbs like rosemary or thyme for extra flavor.
If you’re feeling indulgent, consider adding some grated cheese to your mashed potatoes. Cheddar or Parmesan cheese can add a rich and savory flavor to the dish.
When serving your beef stifado with creamy mashed potatoes, make sure to spoon some of the stew’s sauce over the potatoes for extra flavor. You can also garnish with some chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color.
Lemon Rice
For a flavorful and aromatic side dish, lemon rice is an excellent choice to serve with beef stifado. This traditional Greek dish is made by cooking rice with lemon juice, lemon zest, and a variety of herbs and spices. The result is a bright and tangy rice that perfectly complements the rich and savory flavors of the beef stifado.
To make lemon rice, start by cooking your rice as you normally would. Once the rice is cooked, add some fresh lemon juice and zest to the pot along with some chopped herbs like parsley or dill. You can also add some garlic or onion for extra flavor. Mix everything together well and let it cook for a few more minutes until the flavors have melded together.
Lemon rice can be served hot or cold, making it a versatile side dish that can be enjoyed year-round. It pairs particularly well with beef stifado because the lemon adds a refreshing contrast to the hearty and savory stew. Plus, the bright yellow color of the rice adds some visual interest to your plate.
Orzo Pasta
One of the most popular options for serving with beef stifado is orzo pasta. This small, rice-shaped pasta is a staple in Greek cuisine and is often used in soups, stews, and salads.
To prepare orzo pasta to serve with beef stifado, simply cook it according to the package instructions until it is al dente. Then, drain the pasta and toss it with a little bit of olive oil to prevent it from sticking together.
When serving the orzo pasta with beef stifado, you can either mix it into the stew or serve it on the side. Mixing the orzo into the stew will create a thicker and heartier dish, while serving it on the side will allow you to enjoy the flavors of both separately.
For an extra burst of flavor, try adding some fresh herbs like parsley or dill to your orzo pasta before serving. You can also sprinkle some crumbled feta cheese on top for a delicious finishing touch.
Roasted Veggies
Roasted vegetables are a great option to serve with beef stifado. Not only do they add a pop of color to your plate, but they also provide a healthy and flavorful side dish. Some great vegetables to roast include carrots, potatoes, bell peppers, and onions.
To prepare roasted vegetables, simply chop your desired veggies into bite-sized pieces and toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them out on a baking sheet and roast in the oven at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are tender and slightly caramelized.
If you want to add some extra flavor to your roasted veggies, consider adding some herbs like rosemary or thyme. You can also sprinkle some Parmesan cheese over the top for a cheesy twist.
Roasted veggies are a versatile side dish that can be customized to your liking. They are also a great way to add some extra nutrients to your meal. So next time you’re serving beef stifado, consider adding some roasted veggies to your plate for a delicious and healthy side dish.
Fried Feta
Fried feta is a delicious and unique addition to any meal, and it’s especially great when paired with beef stifado. To make this appetizer, simply cut a block of feta cheese into small cubes and coat them in flour, egg wash, and breadcrumbs. Then, fry the cubes in hot oil until they’re golden brown and crispy.
The result is a warm and gooey center surrounded by a crispy outer layer. The salty and tangy flavor of the feta pairs perfectly with the rich tomato sauce of the beef stifado. You can also add some herbs like oregano or thyme to the breadcrumbs for an extra burst of flavor.
Fried feta is a great option for those who want to add some variety to their meal or impress their guests with something unique. It’s also a great option for vegetarians who want to enjoy the flavors of Greek cuisine without the meat. So next time you’re serving beef stifado, consider adding some fried feta on the side for an extra special touch.
