Uvetsi
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About the dish:
Uvetsi, also known as Greek baked orzo, is a delicious and comforting Greek dish that features orzo pasta cooked with a flavorful tomato sauce and tender meat. The tomato-based sauce, infused with aromatic herbs and a touch of cinnamon, creates a rich and savory flavor profile. The orzo absorbs the delicious flavors of the sauce, resulting in a hearty and satisfying meal. Uvetsi is typically served as a main course, accompanied by a Greek salad, crusty bread, or some roasted vegetables. It's a comforting and crowd-pleasing dish that brings the flavors of Greece to your table. Here's a recipe to make Uvetsi:
Recipe:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C)
- Season the lamb or beef cubes with salt and pepper
- In a large oven-safe pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the meat cubes and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the meat from the pot and set aside.
- In the same pot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, dried oregano, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and ground cinnamon. Cook for a few minutes to let the flavors meld together.
- Return the cooked meat to the pot and stir to combine with the tomato mixture.
- Pour in the beef or vegetable broth and water. Bring the mixture to a simmer
- Stir in the orzo pasta, making sure it is submerged in the liquid. Cover the pot with a lid and transfer it to the preheated oven.
- Bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until the orzo is cooked al dente and the liquid is absorbed. Stir once or twice during the baking process to prevent sticking
- Once cooked, remove the pot from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes.
- Serve Uvetsi hot, garnished with fresh parsley.