Manestra is mine.
Comfort food really is what you grow up eating, and my mom had lots of delicious, simple Greek recipes that I still make when I want something warm, comforting, and non-vegetable based (because what comfort food is made of vegetables?) :-) This recipe is simple, and I sometimes refer to it as “Greek Chop Suey” – Ground beef or turkey (or lamb, if you want to get fancy) is cooked with onions in a tomato-based broth with orzo, with mint and cinnamon added for a unique Greek flavor.
I know what you are thinking. Mint and cinnamon? Really? Trust me, it works.
Cinnamon is added to a lot of meat-based Greek recipes (have you ever had Cincinnati-style chili? Chili with cinnamon added to it, first made by Greek immigrants in the area). The mint is super unique but subtle and gives the whole thing a great flavor. You will just have to trust me and go make it for yourself :-) Start by browning 1 pound of ground beef or turkey with one large diced onion. I used ground turkey for this one- both are delicious!
Once the meat is cooked through, add 1 small can of tomato paste, 1 teaspoon salt and pepper to taste, and the spices. There isn’t a lot of cinnamon in this dish- only 1/8 teaspoon. For the mint, I use dried spearmintleaves (I have never tried fresh, but I have a mind to start an herb garden in the spring and will try it later for sure!).
Get a heaping teaspoon of the mint, and put it in the palm of your hand. Crush the dried leaves when you add it to the pot by rubbing it between your hands as you add it to maximize the flavor of the mint. This part is fun- it kind of feels like I’m making a potion and I actually live in Hogwarts, and I should be saying some kind of spell while adding it.
Serve with Romano or parmesan cheese on top. Get second helpings (and thirds) :-) Here’s the printable recipe for Manestra!
