Manestra (Greek Orzo with Tomato Sauce) Recipe
Manestra is a comforting Greek dish featuring orzo pasta simmered in a rich tomato sauce infused with garlic, red onion, herbs, and a splash of red wine. This savory and hearty one-pot meal is simple to prepare and perfect for a satisfying family dinner, embodying the rustic flavors of Greek cuisine.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Greek
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium red onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon red chilli flakes
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 75 ml (1/3 cup) dry red wine
- 250 g (8.8 oz) orzo
- 1 x 400 g (14 oz) can chopped tomatoes
- 1/2 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 litre (4 cups) vegetable stock
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Sauté Onion: Heat the olive oil in a large, deep pan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped red onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent.
- Add Garlic and Chilli: Stir in the chopped garlic and red chilli flakes and cook for another minute, allowing the flavors to meld without burning the garlic.
- Incorporate Tomato Paste and Wine: Add the tomato paste to the pan and cook for one minute, then pour in the dry red wine. Let it simmer for 1-2 minutes, allowing the alcohol to evaporate and the flavors to deepen.
- Toast the Orzo: Stir in the orzo pasta and toast it in the mixture for 1-2 minutes, stirring often to prevent sticking and enhance the nutty flavor of the orzo.
- Add Tomatoes and Seasonings: Pour in the canned chopped tomatoes, dried oregano, sugar, and vegetable stock. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low for simmering.
- Simmer and Cook: Allow the orzo to cook gently for about 15 minutes or until tender. Stir occasionally, and if the mixture seems too thick, add more vegetable stock or water.
- Season and Serve: Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve immediately, optionally topped with crumbled feta cheese for added creaminess and traditional flavor.
Notes
- You can adjust the red chilli flakes quantity for more or less heat.
- If you prefer a richer flavor, substitute vegetable stock with chicken stock (if not vegetarian).
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free orzo or rice.
- Adding crumbled feta cheese on top enhances the authentic Greek taste.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated gently on the stove.
