Description
A hearty and comforting Greek dish featuring tender lamb and orzo pasta simmered in a rich tomato broth, perfect for sharing with loved ones.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb lamb, cut into small pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 3 cups beef or vegetable broth
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan or Kefalotyri cheese
Instructions
- Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. As the oil warms, you’ll notice that familiar Mediterranean aroma beginning to form—the foundation of so many comforting dishes.
- Add the lamb pieces and sear them until browned on all sides. This step is where the flavor begins to build, and it reminds me of how my grandmother would always insist on patience here—“Let it brown properly,” she’d say, “that’s where the taste lives.”
- Once browned, remove the lamb and set it aside. In the same pot, add the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent. Stir in the garlic and let it cook just until fragrant.
- Return the lamb to the pot, then add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, broth, cinnamon, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together, letting the sauce come to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for about 30 minutes, allowing the meat to become tender and the flavors to deepen.
- Now comes the heart of Greek Manestra—the orzo. Stir it directly into the pot and continue cooking uncovered, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The orzo will absorb the rich tomato broth, becoming soft and infused with flavor.
- After about 10–12 minutes, when the orzo is tender and the sauce has thickened, remove the pot from heat. Sprinkle generously with grated cheese and let it melt into the dish.
- Serve warm, preferably gathered around the table with people you love.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, let the dish sit for a few minutes before serving to enhance the taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Greek
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 600
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 65g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 90mg