Kritharaki

Kritharaki with meat and tomato sauce – a delicious and comforting recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Servings: 4

Who doesn’t love a warm and hearty meal that brings a smile to the faces of loved ones? Kritharaki, also known as "orzo pasta," is an excellent choice for a light yet flavorful dinner. These pasta resemble basmati rice but have a slightly thicker texture, perfect for absorbing rich and tasty sauces.

The history of this dish is fascinating; kritharaki has become popular in Mediterranean kitchens, blending tradition with culinary innovation. It is a versatile recipe, perfect for both children and adults. Moreover, the secret of this recipe lies in one special ingredient: cinnamon. This adds a warm and surprising note to the tomato sauces, transforming an ordinary meal into an unforgettable culinary experience.

Ingredients

- 500 g beef (preferably tender and lean cuts)
- 500 g kritharaki (or orzo pasta)
- 50 g concentrated tomato sauce
- 50 g tomato paste
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Oregano, to taste
- 2 bay leaves
- 100 ml olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Preparation instructions

1. Prepare the ingredients
Start by cutting the beef into larger pieces, about 3-4 cm. This will help retain the juices and texture of the meat during cooking. Finely chop the onion and have all the ingredients ready as you prepare to start cooking in the pressure cooker.

2. Sauté the onion
In a pressure cooker, add the olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent and soft, about 3-4 minutes. This will form the delicious base of the sauce.

3. Brown the meat
Add the pieces of beef to the pot with the onion and let them brown on all sides. It is essential to achieve a nice crust to enhance the flavor of the dish. This process will take about 5-7 minutes.

4. Add the ingredients
Once the meat is browned, add the concentrated tomato sauce, tomato paste, salt, pepper, oregano, bay leaves, and ground cinnamon. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.

5. Cook under pressure
Add water to the pot until it covers the meat by about 2 fingers. Close the pressure cooker lid and, once the valve starts to boil, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 45 minutes.

6. Finish the sauce
After 45 minutes, turn off the heat and wait for the pressure to release. Carefully open the lid, being cautious of the hot steam. Let the sauce simmer on low heat for 5-10 minutes, uncovered, to thicken slightly.

7. Cook the kritharaki
In a separate pot, boil salted water and add the kritharaki. Cook according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain and add to the meat sauce, stirring gently to combine.

8. Optional: Bake
If you want to add a crispy note and a more intense flavor, transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake at 180°C for 15-20 minutes. This step is optional but can turn the dish into a true feast.

9. Serve
Kritharaki with meat and tomato sauce can be served simply or with creamy mashed potatoes, which will perfectly complement the flavors. You can also add grated parmesan or freshly chopped parsley for an extra touch of freshness.

Practical tips

- Choosing the meat: Use quality beef, preferably from the upper thigh, as it is more tender and will cook evenly.
- Cinnamon: Don’t skip this ingredient! Even though it may seem unusual, cinnamon will add a depth of flavor that will pleasantly surprise everyone.
- Variations: You can substitute beef with chicken or turkey, adjusting the cooking time accordingly. Additionally, adding vegetables such as carrots or zucchini can enrich the dish.

Nutritional benefits

This recipe is rich in protein due to the beef, and kritharaki provides essential carbohydrates for energy. Onions and tomatoes bring antioxidants and vitamins, while cinnamon has anti-inflammatory properties. Although it is a hearty meal, portions can be adjusted to fit the nutritional needs of each person.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use whole wheat pasta?
Yes, you can use whole wheat pasta for a healthier option. Cooking time may vary, so follow the instructions on the package.

2. What drinks pair well with this dish?
A dry red wine or fresh lemonade will perfectly complement the rich flavors of this dish.

3. Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, kritharaki with meat can be frozen. Make sure to store them in an airtight container to avoid drying out.

This kritharaki with meat and tomato sauce recipe is not only tasty but also simple to prepare, making it ideal for a family evening. Whether you choose to enjoy it with loved ones or treat yourself, each bite will bring warmth and joy. Bon appétit!

 Ingredients: 500 g beef (the tender, lean cut) 500 g pasta concentrated tomato sauce about 50 g tomato paste about 50 g salt pepper oregano 2 bay leaves 100 ml olive oil 1 onion 1 teaspoon cinnamon powder (adds great flavor to all red sauces with meat!)

 Tags:  kritharaki paste basmati rice