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Instant Pot Greek Beef Stifado – tender beef stew in tomato-garlic sauce with red wine vinegar and Mediterranean herbs

đŸ„˜ Instant Pot Greek Beef Stifado Recipe

This Instant Pot Greek Beef Stifado is a deeply flavorful Mediterranean stew made with tender beef, onions, garlic, tomatoes, and aromatic herbs, all infused with a tangy red wine vinegar sauce. Traditionally slow-cooked for hours, this version achieves the same rich depth of flavor in a fraction of the time — thanks to the Instant Pot. Perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or impressing guests with a taste of Greece.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Main Course
Cuisine Greek / Mediterranean
Servings 4

Ingredients
  

For the Stifado:

  • 2 lbs 900 g beef stew meat, cut into chunks
  • 1 large onion diced
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 can 14.5 oz diced tomatoes
  • Âœ cup beef broth
  • ÂŒ cup red wine vinegar
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil for sautĂ©ing
  • Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

  • SautĂ© the Beef: Set the Instant Pot to SautĂ© Mode. Add olive oil and allow it to heat. Place the beef in batches, searing each side until golden brown to enhance flavor. Remove and set aside.
  • Cook the Aromatics: Add the diced onion to the pot and cook until soft and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and sautĂ© briefly until fragrant, ensuring it does not burn.
  • Build the Sauce: Pour in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, red wine vinegar, and tomato paste. Stir well to combine, scraping the bottom of the pot to release the flavorful browned bits. Add oregano, thyme, salt, and black pepper.
  • Combine and Pressure Cook: Return the seared beef to the pot, coating it evenly with the sauce. Secure the lid and set the Instant Pot to Pressure Cook on High for 35 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, allow a natural pressure release for 10 minutes before manually venting any remaining steam.
  • Serve and Garnish: Open the lid carefully and stir the stew gently. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Transfer the Instant Pot Greek Beef Stifado to serving bowls, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve warm with crusty bread, rice, or roasted potatoes.

🧊 Storage Tips

  • Allow the dish to cool completely before storing. Transfer the stifado to airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth to restore the sauce’s silky texture.

🧁 Chef’s Note

  • For a richer, more traditional flavor, add a small cinnamon stick or a splash of dry red wine before pressure cooking. This touch brings out the stew’s classic Greek depth and warmth.

Notes

  • Enhance the Flavor: For a more traditional Greek touch, add a small cinnamon stick or one bay leaf before sealing the Instant Pot. These subtle aromas elevate the depth of flavor and bring a hint of warmth to the dish.
  • Browning the Beef: Don’t skip this step — searing the beef locks in the juices and adds a beautiful caramelized flavor that makes the stifado rich and full-bodied.
  • Onion Options: While diced onions are convenient, small pearl onions (as in traditional stifado) can be used for a more authentic texture and mild sweetness.
  • Vinegar Balance: Red wine vinegar adds brightness and cuts through the richness of the sauce. If you prefer a milder tang, reduce the vinegar slightly or balance it with a pinch of sugar.
  • Thickening the Sauce: After pressure cooking, if you’d like a thicker sauce, set the Instant Pot to SautĂ© and simmer uncovered for 5–7 minutes until it reaches your desired consistency.
  • Serving Ideas: Serve over mashed potatoes, orzo, or warm pita bread. For a full Mediterranean experience, pair it with a crisp Greek salad and a glass of dry red wine.
  • Storage Tip: As with many stews, the flavor of Instant Pot Greek Beef Stifado deepens overnight. It’s an excellent make-ahead meal that tastes even better the next day.

đŸœïž Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – Approximately 1 of 4 servings)

Nutrient Amount
Calories 420 kcal
Total Fat 22 g
Saturated Fat 7 g
Cholesterol 110 mg
Sodium 540 mg
Total Carbohydrates 10 g
Dietary Fiber 2 g
Total Sugars 4 g
Protein 45 g
Calcium 60 mg
Iron 4 mg
💡 Nutritional values are estimates based on standard ingredients. Actual results may vary depending on brands and portion sizes used.
Keyword Greek Beef Stew, Instant Pot Greek Beef Stifado