Cretan Giouvetsi is a traditional Greek dish that combines tender lamb or beef with orzo pasta, tomatoes, and aromatic spices. It’s a flavorful and comforting dish that’s perfect for a hearty meal. Here’s a basic recipe for Cretan Giouvetsi:

Ingredients:

For the meat:

• 1 kg (2.2 lbs) lamb or beef, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the pasta:

• 300g (10.5 oz) orzo pasta

For the sauce:

• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2-3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 can (400g/14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 cups beef or vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup red wine (optional)

For the topping:

• 1/2 cup grated kefalotyri or Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. In a large oven-safe pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the meat pieces and brown them on all sides. Season with salt and pepper. Remove the meat from the pot and set it aside.
3. In the same pot, add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
4. Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, dried oregano, dried thyme, paprika, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir well to combine the spices and create the sauce base.
5. Return the browned meat to the pot. Pour in the red wine if using, and let it simmer for a few minutes to reduce slightly.
6. Add the orzo pasta to the pot, distributing it evenly among the meat and sauce.
7. Pour in the beef or vegetable broth. The liquid should cover the meat and pasta. If needed, add a bit more broth or water.
8. Give everything a gentle stir to combine the ingredients.
9. Cover the pot with a lid or aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Let it bake for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the meat is tender and the pasta is cooked.
10. Once done, remove the pot from the oven. Sprinkle the grated cheese over the top of the Giouvetsi.
11. Return the pot to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
12. Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
13. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Cretan Giouvetsi is traditionally served with a side of Greek salad and crusty bread. Enjoy this delicious and hearty Greek dish!