Greek Beef Stew (Kokkinisto) with Bone Broth | Rich & Slow-Cooked

Greek Beef Stew (Kokkinisto) with Bone Broth | Rich & Slow-Cooked

Greek Beef Stew in Tomato Sauce (Kokkinisto) – Slow-Cooked Comfort Food

 

 

Greek Beef Stew in Tomato Sauce (Kokkinisto)

This Greek beef stew in tomato sauce, known as Kokkinisto, is classic comfort food—slow-cooked, deeply flavoured, and incredibly satisfying.  

Made with tender beef, aromatic spices, and a rich tomato base, this dish becomes even more nourishing with the addition of bone broth, bringing extra depth and nutritional value.

It’s the kind of meal that tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for batch cooking and leftovers.

👉 Learn more about the benefits of bone broth:
The Ultimate Gut Health Guide

Why This Stew Is So Flavourful

Kokkinisto is built on simple ingredients layered over time:

  • Beef → rich, slow-cooked protein
  • Tomato paste → concentrated depth and sweetness
  • Spices (cinnamon, cloves, bay leaves) → warm, aromatic complexity
  • Bone broth → adds richness, minerals, and umami

👉 Learn more about functional proteins

How to Serve Kokkinisto

Traditionally served with:

  • Rice
  • Spaghetti
  • Mashed potatoes
  • Crusty bread

Lower-carb options:

  • Cauliflower mash
  • Quinoa
  • Steamed greens

Ingredients

  • ¼ cup olive oil
  • 500 g beef chunks
  • 500 ml beef bone broth 
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 large garlic cloves, chopped
  • 60 ml red wine
  • 3 tbsp tomato paste
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 5 whole cloves
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 500 g vegetables (cut similar size to beef – e.g. carrots, zucchini, eggplant)
  • Sea salt and black pepper to taste

👉 Use a quality option like:
Broth & Co Beef Bone Broth

Method

1. Sear the beef

  • Heat olive oil in a large pot
  • Brown beef chunks on all sides
  • Remove and set aside

2. Build the base

  • In the same pot, cook onion and garlic until soft and lightly golden

3. Add wine

  • Pour in red wine and allow it to reduce slightly, cooking off the alcohol

4. Add tomato and spices

  • Stir in tomato paste, bay leaves, cloves, and cinnamon stick

5. Combine and simmer

  • Return beef to the pot
  • Add bone broth and vegetables
  • Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer

6. Slow cook

  • Cook on medium-low heat for 1.5–2 hours, until beef is tender and sauce thickens

Tips for Best Results

  • Use tougher cuts like chuck or blade for best texture
  • Allow time for slow cooking—this develops flavour
  • Let the stew rest before serving for even better taste

Variations

  • Add olives for a more traditional Mediterranean flavour
  • Include fresh herbs like oregano or thyme
  • Use lamb instead of beef for a different profile

👉 Such as :
mediterranean-beef-stew-spinach

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Kokkinisto mean?

“Kokkinisto” means “reddened” in Greek, referring to dishes cooked in a rich tomato-based sauce.

What cut of beef works best?

Cuts like chuck, blade, or brisket are ideal because they become tender when slow cooked.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes. After searing and building the base, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours.

Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Yes. It tastes even better the next day and stores well.

Can I freeze Kokkinisto?

Yes. Freeze in portions for up to 3 months.

Is this recipe good for gut health?

Yes. Bone broth provides amino acids that support digestion and overall gut function.

👉 Learn more:
Gut Brain Axis and the Gut Health

How can I make this lower in carbs?

Serve with cauliflower mash or vegetables instead of rice or pasta.

Final Thoughts

This Greek beef stew (Kokkinisto) is a simple way to create a deeply satisfying, nourishing meal using traditional ingredients and slow cooking.

It’s rich, versatile, and perfect for sharing.

👉 Explore more recipes and products:
Shop Broth & Co

 

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