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Youvetsi Recipe (Greek Lamb Stew with Orzo) Recipe

Youvetsi Recipe (Greek Lamb Stew with Orzo) Recipe
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5.1 from 24 reviews

This hearty Greek lamb stew with orzo, known as Youvetsi, is a comforting dish perfect for the colder months. Tender lamb is simmered in a rich tomato-red wine sauce, then mixed with orzo pasta and topped with crumbled feta cheese.

Ingredients

Lamb Stew:

  • 2 1/2 lbs (1.1 kg) lamb shoulder or leg, cut into chunks
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1/2 cup dry red wine
  • 1 (28 oz / 800g) can San Marzano tomatoes, crushed
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste (optional)
  • 1 tsp sugar (optional)
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 1/2 cups hot water or beef broth (more as needed)

Orzo:

  • 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta (kritharaki)
  • Additional broth or water as needed

Garnish:

  • Feta cheese, crumbled
  • Extra virgin olive oil
  • Fresh parsley (optional)

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high. Brown lamb on all sides, 6–8 minutes. Remove and set aside.
  2. Add onion and sauté until soft, about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic, cinnamon stick, and bay leaf.
  3. Pour in red wine to deglaze; simmer 2 minutes. Add tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, and 2½ cups broth or water. Return lamb to the pot.
  4. Bring to a boil, then lower heat. Cover and simmer for 1.5–2 hours until the lamb is very tender.
  5. Remove lid. Stir in orzo and a bit more hot water if needed to just cover pasta. Cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, 15–18 minutes until orzo is tender.
  6. Discard cinnamon and bay leaf. Let rest for 5–10 minutes.
  7. Serve warm, garnished with feta, olive oil, and parsley.

Notes

  • Orzo absorbs liquid fast—add extra hot broth if it thickens too much.
  • Let stew rest before serving for better texture and flavor.
  • For oven-baked variation, transfer to baking dish after step 4 and bake at 375°F for 30–40 minutes.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://bitezly.com/youvetsi-recipe-greek-lamb-stew-with-orzo-recipe/