INGREDIENTS

* 1 tb Oil
* 1/8 ts cinnamon
* 1 lb Beef or lamb stew meat
* 1 ts spearmint flakes
* 2 onions; chopped
* 4 c Boiling water
* 1 c tomato sauce or 1 tb tomato paste instead
* 1 c Manestra (orzo)
* 1 c Grated cheese (Mizithra!)
* 1 ts Salt
* 1/8 ts Pepper

METHOD

Heat oil in large saucepan and brown meat and onions for 10 minutes over medium heat. Add tomato, seasonings, and 2 cups water. Cover and simmer for 1 1/2 hours until meat is tender. Add remaining water and bring to a boil. Add manestra. Stir once or twice. Simmer 20 minutes more. Serve hot with grated cheese.