Instant Pot Greek Beef Stifado: A Comforting Taste of Mediterranean Sunshine
Few dishes capture the soul of Greek comfort food quite like Beef Stifado. Deeply savory, gently spiced, and luxuriously tender, this classic stew is beloved for its simplicity and its ability to transform humble ingredients into something truly unforgettable. Traditionally simmered for hours, this Instant Pot Greek Beef Stifado delivers all the rich, slow-cooked flavor in a fraction of the time—making it perfect for modern home cooks who crave authenticity without the fuss.
What makes this dish irresistible is its balance: melt-in-your-mouth beef, sweet onions, tangy tomatoes, and a whisper of warming cinnamon that ties everything together. It’s hearty yet gentle, rustic yet elegant, and even better the next day. Whether you’re feeding family or hosting friends, this recipe brings the warmth of the Greek islands straight to your table.
Ingredients & Their Roles
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1.5 lbs boneless beef chuck roast (cut into 1-inch cubes)
Beef chuck is ideal for stews because it becomes incredibly tender under pressure. Leaner cuts like sirloin can also be used for a lighter version. -
2 tablespoons olive oil
A cornerstone of Mediterranean cooking, olive oil adds richness and helps develop deep flavor when browning the beef. -
2 large onions, thinly sliced
Onions are the heart of stifado, providing natural sweetness and body to the sauce as they soften and melt. -
3 cloves garlic, minced
Garlic adds aromatic depth and savory warmth without overpowering the dish. -
1 (15-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
Tomatoes create the stew’s rich, tangy base and balance the sweetness of the onions. -
1 cup beef broth (low sodium)
Beef broth enhances the meaty flavor while keeping the sauce silky and well-rounded. -
1 teaspoon dried oregano
A classic Greek herb that adds earthy, herbal notes. -
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
Thyme brings subtle floral warmth and complements the beef beautifully. -
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Just a pinch adds signature warmth and complexity—essential to authentic stifado. -
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
Essential for enhancing and balancing all flavors. -
Optional: Fresh parsley, chopped
A bright, fresh garnish that adds color and freshness at the end.
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Brown the Beef
Set your Instant Pot to Sauté mode and add the olive oil. Once hot, brown the beef cubes in batches, ensuring a deep golden crust on all sides. This step builds flavor. Remove beef and set aside. -
Sauté the Onions and Garlic
Add sliced onions to the pot and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until soft and lightly caramelized. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. -
Build the Sauce
Return the beef to the pot. Stir in crushed tomatoes, beef broth, oregano, thyme, and cinnamon. Season generously with salt and pepper. -
Pressure Cook
Secure the lid and set the valve to Sealing. Select Pressure Cook (High) for 40 minutes. -
Natural Release
Allow the pressure to release naturally for 10–15 minutes. This keeps the beef tender and juicy. -
Adjust the Sauce
If needed, switch back to Sauté mode and simmer for a few minutes to thicken the sauce. -
Serve and Garnish
Taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Why This Recipe Is Loved
- Authentic Greek flavors made accessible with the Instant Pot
- Minimal prep with maximum depth of flavor
- Comforting and nourishing, perfect for family meals
- Even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prep
Pro Tips for Perfect Beef Stifado
- Don’t skip browning—this step is key to a rich, savory stew.
- Use natural release to prevent tough meat.
- Adjust cinnamon carefully; a little goes a long way.
- Make it ahead—the flavors deepen overnight.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Greek Beef Stifado over fluffy white rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or buttery orzo. Pair it with crusty bread to soak up the sauce and a simple Greek salad for a complete Mediterranean meal.
Final Thoughts
This Instant Pot Greek Beef Stifado proves that incredible flavor doesn’t require complicated techniques or hours in the kitchen. With simple ingredients, clear steps, and bold Mediterranean character, it’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again. Comforting, wholesome, and deeply satisfying, this dish is a celebration of tradition made easy—and one that deserves a permanent place in your recipe collection.
