If you're in the mood for a comforting, savory Greek dish that feels like a warm hug, then Kounelaki Stifado (Rabbit Stew) is the perfect choice. This traditional dish combines tender rabbit meat, slow-cooked with aromatic onions, spices, and a rich tomato sauce, making it a perfect meal for sharing with friends and family.
Ingredients
(Serves 4–6)
- 1 rabbit (cut into pieces)
- 2 large onions, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cups red wine (a good dry one)
- 1 can (400g) chopped tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 2 bay leaves
- 5–6 whole cloves
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- 1/2 cup water or stock (as needed)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
How to Make It
Brown the Rabbit:
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the rabbit pieces and brown them on all sides. Once browned, remove the rabbit from the pot and set it aside.
Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
- In the same pot, add the chopped onions and cook until softened and golden, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
Add the Wine and Tomato Paste:
- Pour in the red wine to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let the wine cook off for about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the tomato paste and chopped tomatoes, mixing everything well.
Add the Spices:
- Add the cinnamon stick, bay leaves, cloves, thyme, and oregano. Stir and season with salt, pepper, and a tablespoon of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
Simmer the Stew:
- Return the rabbit to the pot and cover the meat with the sauce. Add enough water or stock to just cover the rabbit. Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat and cover the pot. Let it cook slowly for about 1.5 to 2 hours, until the rabbit is tender and the sauce has thickened.
Final Adjustments:
- Check the seasoning and adjust salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce is too thick, add a little more water or stock to reach your desired consistency.
Serve:
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Serving Suggestions
This rich, comforting dish is perfect for cozy dinners. The rabbit becomes incredibly tender and absorbs all the aromatic flavors of the sauce. It pairs beautifully with a crisp, green salad or some roasted vegetables to complete the meal.
Enjoy this Kounelaki Stifado—a dish that’s full of flavor and history, made with love for those you care about! 🐰🍷🍅
