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Easy Slow Cooker Stifado: Authentic Greek Beef Stew Recipe

As a seasoned home cook who loves harnessing the slow cooker's magic for flavorful meals, I've adapted this Stifado recipe inspired by Moniek Gjaltema from Eetspiratie. This Greek beef stew simmers to perfection with tender beef, sweet shallots, and aromatic spices—ideal for effortless weeknight dinners.

Table of contents

What is Stifado?

Stifado is a classic Greek beef stew featuring tender beef, pearl onions (or shallots), tomatoes, and a medley of herbs and spices. Its one-pot nature makes it perfect for the slow cooker, yielding rich, melt-in-your-mouth results with minimal effort. I've tested countless slow cooker recipes, and this one delivers authentic flavor. Try it and share your thoughts!

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Stifado

This recipe draws from Eetspiratie's version by Moniek Gjaltema. Visit her site for her original method. I'll soon share my personal twist after preparing it myself.

Want to master cooking? Explore the Cooking University course for expert tips.

  • 1500 grams stewing beef (approximately)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 heaping tablespoons flour
  • 2-3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 500 grams shallots
  • 1 large teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 tablespoon coriander seeds (whole)
  • 3 bay leaves
  • 2 large cloves garlic
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • A pinch of ground cinnamon
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 100 ml red wine
  • 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 can (400 g) diced tomatoes
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable stock powder (or half a chicken stock cube)
  • 500 ml water
  • 2 sprigs rosemary

Step-by-Step Instructions

Slow cooking Stifado couldn't be simpler. Season and flour the beef, then sear in olive oil if desired (optional for deeper flavor). Add whole or halved shallots and all remaining ingredients to the slow cooker. Cook on high for 2 hours, then low for 3.5 hours. The result? A hearty, aromatic stew ready to serve.

Craving variety? Try our delicious hash recipe.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this Stifado with creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy rice, roasted potatoes, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.