Stifado

Instructions

1. 1
   Heat olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat.
2. 2
   Season beef cubes with salt and pepper, then brown them in batches until golden on all sides. Remove and set aside.
3. 3
   Add pearl onions to the pot and sauté until lightly caramelized, about 5 minutes.
4. 4
   Stir in minced garlic and tomato paste, cooking for 2 minutes until fragrant.
5. 5
   Pour in red wine and red wine vinegar, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
6. 6
   Return beef to the pot and add beef stock, bay leaves, cinnamon, cloves, and oregano.
7. 7
   Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 2 to 2.5 hours until beef is very tender.
8. 8
   Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
9. 9
   Serve hot in deep bowls with crusty bread to soak up the rich sauce.