From Greece to Your Table: Greek Goat Meat Stew (Katsikaki Stifado)
Katsikaki Stifado is a traditional Greek stew made with tender goat meat simmered slowly in a rich tomato-based sauce flavored with onions, garlic, and aromatic spices. This hearty dish is a perfect showcase of rustic Greek cooking, emphasizing bold flavors and wholesome ingredients.
The use of pearl onions gives the dish a slightly sweet undertone, balancing the tangy tomatoes and red wine. Perfect for family gatherings or a special dinner, this dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, rice, or pasta to soak up the flavorful sauce. It’s a comforting and satisfying meal, especially during cooler months.
Enjoy your hearty and flavorful Katsikaki Stifado!
Related
ground meat
Ingredients
2.5lbs (1.2 kg) goat meat, cut into chunks
2lbs (900 g) pearl onions, peeled
4 garlic cloves, minced
3 medium tomatoes, grated or finely chopped
2tablespoons tomato paste
1cup (240 ml) dry red wine
1/4cup (60 ml) red wine vinegar
1/2cup (120 ml) olive oil
2 bay leaves
1 cinnamon stick
5 whole cloves
1teaspoon allspice
1teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
2cups (480 ml) water or stock
Instructions
Prepare the Goat Meat: Rinse the goat meat under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper.
Sear the Meat: Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the goat meat in batches and sear until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
Sauté the Onions: In the same pot, add the pearl onions and sauté until lightly caramelized. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
Deglaze the Pot: Add the red wine and red wine vinegar, stirring thoroughly to deglaze the pot and lift the flavorful browned bits from the bottom.
Add Tomatoes and Spices: Stir in the grated tomatoes, tomato paste, bay leaves, cinnamon stick, cloves, allspice, and oregano. Return the goat meat to the pot.
Simmer the Stew: Add water or stock, ensuring the meat is just covered. Raise the heat to bring the mixture to a boil, then lower it to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot and cook for about 2 hours, stirring now and then.
Adjust Seasoning: After 2 hours, check the meat for tenderness. Adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Simmer uncovered for an additional 20-30 minutes to thicken the sauce.
Serve: Remove the cinnamon stick and bay leaves. Serve hot with crusty bread, rice, or pasta.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
Amount Per Serving
Calories420kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat22g34%
Saturated Fat6g30%
Cholesterol120mg40%
Sodium400mg17%
Total Carbohydrate18g6%
Dietary Fiber3g12%
Sugars8g
Protein38g76%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
If goat meat is unavailable, you can substitute with lamb or beef.
For a more intense flavor, marinate the goat meat in wine and spices overnight.
Use fresh, ripe tomatoes for the best flavor, or canned tomatoes if out of season.
Pearl onions are traditional, but regular onions cut into wedges can work as a substitute.