Pastitsada

Instructions

1. 1
   Heat olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat.
2. 2
   Brown the beef cubes in batches until golden on all sides, about 8-10 minutes per batch. Remove and set aside.
3. 3
   In the same pot, sauté chopped onions until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. 4
   Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
5. 5
   Stir in tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes.
6. 6
   Deglaze with red wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
7. 7
   Return beef to the pot and add canned tomatoes, bay leaves, cinnamon, and cloves.
8. 8
   Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer covered for 1.5-2 hours until beef is very tender.
9. 9
   Season with salt and pepper to taste.
10. 10
    Serve the pastitsada over freshly cooked pasta or rice.