Manestra (simple Greek orzo comfort food)
If you’re in search of a dish that envelops you in warmth and comfort, look no further than Manestra, a simple Greek orzo comfort food. This delightful one-pot meal is not only quick to prepare but also bursts with rich flavors that evoke the nostalgia of family gatherings. With its tender orzo, savory meat, and aromatic spices, Manestra is like a warm hug on a plate—ideal for busy weeknights or impressing guests without breaking a sweat.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: One-pot cooking
- Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion (diced)
- 1 lb. ground beef (or lamb or turkey)
- 6 oz. tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- black pepper (to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 heaping teaspoon dried spearmint (or 1 tablespoon fresh chopped mint)
- 4 cups water
- 1 cup orzo (whole wheat or regular is fine)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat and sauté diced onion until softened.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
- Stir in tomato paste, salt, black pepper, cinnamon, and spearmint; cook until the paste darkens.
- Pour in water and bring to a boil.
- Add orzo, stir well, cover, and simmer on low heat until the orzo is cooked through.
- Serve hot with optional garnishes like grated cheese and fresh herbs.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 75mg