Classic Beef Bourguignon
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
A rich and hearty French stew, perfect for a cozy dinner.
This Classic Beef Bourguignon recipe brings the flavors of France to your kitchen. With tender beef, rich red wine, and aromatic vegetables, it's a dish that warms the soul.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Rich, deep flavors from slow cooking
- Tender, melt-in-your-mouth beef
- Perfect for impressing guests or family
The Heart of French Cuisine
Beef Bourguignon, a classic dish from the Burgundy region of France, brings together the rustic charm of French cooking with luxurious flavors. This dish is a celebration of slow cooking, allowing the ingredients to meld and develop a depth that is simply irresistible. Each bite is a testament to the time and care put into its preparation, making it a favorite for both casual dinners and special occasions.
The combination of tender beef, rich red wine, and a medley of vegetables creates a symphony of flavors that warms the heart and soul. Traditionally served with crusty bread or creamy mashed potatoes, this dish is perfect for soaking up the luscious sauce that results from the slow cooking process.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, Classic Beef Bourguignon is the ideal dish to impress. Its impressive presentation and rich flavors make it a standout choice for entertaining guests, while its comforting nature ensures it’s a hit with family. This recipe allows you to create a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen, making it a go-to for any home chef.
Moreover, the beauty of this dish lies in its versatility. You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your taste or dietary preferences. For instance, adding in seasonal vegetables or swapping the beef for a different protein can create new, exciting variations while maintaining the essence of this beloved classic.
Tips for Success
To achieve the best results, it's crucial to use high-quality ingredients. Opt for a good bottle of red wine, as this will greatly influence the dish's flavor. The beef should be well-marbled for optimal tenderness, and fresh herbs will elevate the taste profile. Don't rush the cooking process; the longer it simmers, the more the flavors will deepen and develop.
Additionally, consider making this dish a day in advance. Like many stews, Beef Bourguignon tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld together. Simply reheat on the stovetop before serving, and you’ll find it just as delicious, if not more so, than when it was first prepared.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients:
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 bottle red wine (Burgundy or Pinot Noir)
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 4 slices bacon, diced
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup pearl onions, peeled
- 1 cup mushrooms, quartered
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best results!
Instructions
Follow these steps for a perfect Beef Bourguignon:
Prepare the beef
In a large pot, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pot.
Sear the beef
In the same pot, add the beef cubes and brown on all sides. Remove and set aside.
Cook the vegetables
Add the chopped onion, carrots, and garlic to the pot. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
Combine ingredients
Stir in the flour, then return the beef and bacon to the pot. Add the red wine, beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
Slow cook
Cover and cook on low heat for about 2 hours, or until the beef is tender.
Add finishing touches
In the last 30 minutes, add the pearl onions and mushrooms. Cook until tender.
Serve
Remove the bay leaf and garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy!
Pair this dish with crusty bread for a complete meal!
Serving Suggestions
Beef Bourguignon is traditionally served with a side of crusty French bread, perfect for soaking up every drop of the rich sauce. Alternatively, creamy mashed potatoes or buttery noodles can complement the stew beautifully, adding a comforting touch to your meal. For a lighter option, serve it alongside a fresh green salad dressed with a simple vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish.
To enhance the dining experience, consider pairing your Beef Bourguignon with a glass of the same red wine used in the recipe. This creates a harmonious flavor profile and elevates the overall meal, making it a truly memorable experience for you and your guests.
Storing and Reheating
Leftover Beef Bourguignon can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. This dish actually improves with time, as the flavors continue to develop, making it a fantastic option for meal prep or make-ahead meals.
If you wish to freeze leftovers, place the cooled stew in a freezer-safe container, where it can last for up to three months. To defrost, transfer it to the refrigerator overnight before reheating. This allows you to enjoy the comforting flavors of Beef Bourguignon whenever the craving strikes!
Exploring Variations
While the classic recipe is undeniably delicious, feel free to explore variations to suit your taste. You can add root vegetables like turnips or parsnips for added sweetness and texture. For a touch of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of brandy during cooking to deepen the flavors even further.
Vegetarians can also enjoy a plant-based adaptation by substituting beef with hearty mushrooms or lentils, along with vegetable broth and a robust red wine. This way, you can savor the essence of Beef Bourguignon while catering to diverse dietary preferences.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes, you can use sirloin or brisket, but chuck is the traditional choice for its tenderness.
→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! It tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop.
→ What should I serve with Beef Bourguignon?
It's delicious with crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or egg noodles.
→ Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Classic Beef Bourguignon
A rich and hearty French stew, perfect for a cozy dinner.
Created by: Sophie Adams
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 bottle red wine (Burgundy or Pinot Noir)
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 4 slices bacon, diced
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup pearl onions, peeled
- 1 cup mushrooms, quartered
- Fresh parsley for garnish
How-To Steps
In a large pot, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pot.
In the same pot, add the beef cubes and brown on all sides. Remove and set aside.
Add the chopped onion, carrots, and garlic to the pot. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the flour, then return the beef and bacon to the pot. Add the red wine, beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
Cover and cook on low heat for about 2 hours, or until the beef is tender.
In the last 30 minutes, add the pearl onions and mushrooms. Cook until tender.
Remove the bay leaf and garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 6g