Thessaloniki Sosé
Introduction
Thessaloniki Sosé, a fascinating dish from Greece, offers a unique blend of Mediterranean flavors. Named after Greece's second-largest city, Thessaloniki, this dish embodies the vibrant spirit and rich history of the region. Known for its diverse cultural influences, Thessaloniki was a thriving hub for trade and culture in the Byzantine era. This dish captures the essence of the city's historical melting pot by combining spices, fresh ingredients, and expertly cooked meat.
Ingredients
- Beef - 500g, cubed
- Onions - 2 large, finely chopped
- Bell Peppers - 2, sliced
- Tomatoes - 3, diced
- Garlic - 4 cloves, minced
- Red Wine - 200ml
- Olive Oil - 60ml
- Oregano - 1 teaspoon
- Thyme - 1 teaspoon
- Salt - to taste
- Pepper - freshly ground, to taste
- Bay Leaf - 1
- Pasta - 300g, preferably penne
- Fresh Parsley - for garnish, chopped
Preparation
Begin by preparing the beef. Trim the fat and cut it into evenly sized cubes to ensure even cooking. Season the beef lightly with salt and pepper. Allow it to sit for about 10 minutes to absorb the seasoning.
While the beef is resting, chop the onions and garlic, slice the bell peppers, and dice the tomatoes. Having all your ingredients prepped ahead of time makes the cooking process smoother.
Cooking Process
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the onions and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute, being careful not to burn it.
Add the beef cubes to the pot, searing each side until browned. This step is crucial for locking in flavors and ensuring tender meat.
Once the beef is browned, deglaze the pot with the red wine, scraping any bits stuck to the bottom of the pot. Let the wine reduce by half before adding the tomatoes and bell peppers.
Add the oregano, thyme, and bay leaf. Stir well and reduce the heat to low. Cover and let the mixture simmer gently for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the meat is tender. If the mixture becomes too thick, add a little water or beef stock to loosen it up.
About 15 minutes before the meat is done, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions, until al dente. Drain and set aside.
How to Enjoy
Once the Thessaloniki Sosé is cooked to perfection, remove the bay leaf and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary.
Serve the sosé over a bed of pasta, garnished with freshly chopped parsley. Pair this hearty dish with crusty bread and a glass of the same red wine used for cooking, to elevate the dining experience. Thessaloniki Sosé is perfect for sharing with family and friends, making any meal a delightful celebration of Greek cuisine.