Manestra (meat with orzo)

4 servings

Ingredients

QuantityIngredient
Karen Mintzias
1tablespoonOil
1poundsBeef or lamb stew meat
2Onions; chopped
1cupTomato sauce; -=OR=- Tomato paste instead
1teaspoonSalt
teaspoonPepper
teaspoonCinnamon
1teaspoonSpearmint flakes
4cupsBoiling water
1cupManestra (orzo)
1cupGrated cheese (Mizithra!)

Directions

Heat oil in large saucepan and brown meat and onions for 10 minutes over medium heat. Add tomato, seasonings, and 2 cups water. Cover and simmer for 1½ hours until meat is tender.

Add remaining water and bring to a boil. Add manestra. Stir once or twice. Simmer 20 minutes more. Serve hot with grated cheese.

From "The Complete Greek Cookbook" by Theresa Karas Yianilios, Avenel Books, New York.

Typed for you by Karen Mintzias