STEFATHO (BEEF STEW WITH ONIONS)

2 pounds stew beef
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 cups water
1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste
3 tablespoons vinegar
Salt and pepper to taste
1 clove garlic, minced
1 cinnamon stick, optional
8 whole cloves
2 pounds small white onions, peeled

Trim fat from meat. In a large heavy kettle, heat oil and brown meat on all sides.

In a separate saucepan, mix water, tomato paste, vinegar, salt, pepper and garlic; bring to a boil. Pour over meat in kettle. Add cinnamon stick. Insert cloves into an onion and add to kettle. Cover and simmer 1 hour.

Add the remaining onions and simmer another hour or until onions are tender.

Makes 6 servings
Source: Treasured Greek Recipes by the Ladies Philoptochos Society of St. Sophia Greek Orthodox Church, Albany