Beef Bourguignon Recipe

Winter fare doesn’t get much better than this beef bourguignon recipe! This classic French beef stew is perfect for cozy dinners, holiday gatherings, or a comforting family meal. With its rich flavors and tender meat, it’s a dish that impresses while being surprisingly simple to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The combination of apple vinegar and fresh herbs creates a deep, savory flavor that enhances the beef.
• Classic Comfort Food: Perfect for chilly nights, this stew warms you up and fills your home with delightful aromas.
• Great Leftovers: The flavors deepen over time, making the leftovers even more delicious for next-day meals.
• Versatile Pairing: Serve it over mashed potatoes, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
• Easy Preparation: Most of the cooking is hands-off once you’ve prepared the ingredients.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make preparation smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot
• Slotted spoon
• Large skillet
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot: Ideal for slow cooking; it retains heat well and evenly cooks the meat.
• Slotted spoon: Great for transferring cooked ingredients without excess fat or liquid.
• Large skillet: Perfect for browning vegetables separately to enhance their flavors before combining them with the stew.

Ingredients

For the Beef Stew

• 1 (3-pound) boneless chuck roast, patted dry and cut into 2-inch cubes
• 3 teaspoons kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
• 5 ounces thick-cut bacon, chopped (use turkey bacon as an alternative)
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
• 1 large carrot, diced
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 bay leaf
• 2 fresh sprigs of thyme
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 3 cups apple vinegar, such as Burgundy or Chianti (non-alcoholic)
• 4 teaspoons beef bouillon
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

For Garnish and Serving

• 8 ounces cremini mushrooms, halved
• 8 ounces pearl onions, peeled (or frozen, thawed)
• Mashed potatoes, for serving (optional)
• Chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley, for garnish

How to Make Beef Bourguignon Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) with a rack in the center position. This ensures even cooking throughout.

Step 2: Prepare the Beef

1. Season the cubed beef all over with 2½ teaspoons of salt and pepper.
2. In a Dutch oven set over medium-low heat, place the chopped turkey bacon. Cook until crispy, about 10 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the fat in the pan.

Step 3: Brown the Beef

1. Increase heat to medium-high.
2. Working in batches, add seasoned beef in a single layer to the pan.
3. Cook until browned on all sides for about 10 to 15 minutes. Transfer to a plate after browning.

Step 4: Sauté Vegetables

1. Reduce heat to medium-low; add yellow onion and carrot to the pot.
2. Cook until softened, about 10 minutes.
3. Stir in minced garlic, tomato paste, bay leaf, and one sprig of thyme; cook until fragrant for about one minute.
4. Add flour; stir constantly for about one minute until incorporated.

Step 5: Deglaze and Simmer

1. Pour in apple vinegar while scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
2. Bring to simmer over high heat; stir in three teaspoons of bouillon and one cup of water.
3. Return bacon and beef along with collected juices back to pot.

Step 6: Roast in Oven

Cover and roast in preheated oven until beef is tender—about 2½ hours.

Step 7: Sauté Mushrooms and Pearl Onions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add mushrooms and pearl onions; season with remaining salt.
3. Cook undisturbed until browned—approximately five minutes.
4. Add half a cup of water along with remaining thyme sprig and bouillon; bring to boil then reduce heat to simmer for about ten minutes.

Step 8: Final Touches

Uncover skillet; increase heat to high—cook until caramelized (about two to five minutes). Serve your beef bourguignon recipe over mashed potatoes if desired, garnished with fresh parsley.

Enjoy this hearty dish that’s sure to become a family favorite!

How to Serve Beef Bourguignon Recipe

Beef Bourguignon is a hearty dish that warms you up on cold days. It pairs beautifully with various sides and garnishes, making it a versatile option for dinner.

Over Mashed Potatoes

• Mashed potatoes create a creamy base that absorbs the rich flavors of the stew, ensuring every bite is delicious.

With Crusty Bread

• Serve with slices of crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce. This classic pairing enhances the meal’s comfort factor.

Topped with Fresh Parsley

• Garnish each serving with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness that balances the dish’s richness.

Alongside Roasted Vegetables

• Roasted vegetables add extra texture and flavor, providing a beautiful contrast to the tender beef.

Served in a Bread Bowl

• For an adventurous twist, serve the Beef Bourguignon in hollowed-out bread bowls. This makes for an impressive presentation.

How to Perfect Beef Bourguignon Recipe

To achieve the best flavor and texture in your beef bourguignon, consider these helpful tips:

• Choose Quality Meat: Select a good quality chuck roast for tenderness. The better the meat, the more flavorful your stew will be.
• Sear Properly: Ensure you brown the beef well before braising. This adds depth to the overall flavor profile of your dish.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh thyme and bay leaves elevate the taste. They provide aromatic qualities that dried herbs lack.
• Adjust Liquid Levels: Depending on your pot size, you may need to adjust liquid levels slightly. Ensure there’s enough to cover most of the meat without drowning it.
• Let It Rest: Allowing your stew to rest after cooking enhances its flavors. This gives time for all ingredients to meld together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Beef Bourguignon Recipe

Pairing side dishes with beef bourguignon can enhance your dining experience. Here are some delicious options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes
   Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic offer a comforting side that complements the stew perfectly.
2. Buttery Noodles
   Simple egg noodles tossed in butter provide a light yet satisfying base for soaking up the savory sauce.
3. Steamed Green Beans
   Crisp-tender green beans add freshness and color, balancing out the rich flavors of beef bourguignon.
4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
   Caramelized Brussels sprouts bring a nutty flavor and crispy texture, enhancing your meal’s complexity.
5. Simple Salad
   A mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast while adding crunch to your plate.
6. Herbed Rice
   Fluffy rice flavored with herbs can absorb excess sauce and provide an excellent base for this hearty dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Beef Bourguignon, it’s easy to make some common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Skipping the browning step: Not browning the beef properly can lead to a less flavorful stew. Make sure to sear the beef in batches until it’s nicely browned on all sides.
• Using low-quality meat: Poor-quality cuts can result in tough meat. Choose a good quality chuck roast for tender results.
• Overcooking vegetables: Adding vegetables too early or cooking them too long can cause them to become mushy. Add them at the right time for the best texture.
• Not seasoning adequately: Failing to season throughout the cooking process can lead to bland flavors. Season your beef and vegetables at different stages.
• Ignoring resting time: Cutting into the stew immediately after cooking can make it lose its juices. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving for better flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Beef Bourguignon in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• Allow it to cool down before sealing and refrigerating.

Freezing Beef Bourguignon Recipe

• Portion the stew into freezer-safe containers.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating Beef Bourguignon Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in intervals of 1 minute, stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Heat over low-medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through, adding a splash of broth if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Beef Bourguignon?

Beef Bourguignon is a classic French stew made with beef braised in red wine and flavored with garlic, onions, and herbs. It’s known for its rich taste and tender meat.

Can I use other types of meat?

Yes! While traditional recipes use beef, you can substitute chicken or turkey for a lighter version that still maintains great flavor.

How do I thicken my Beef Bourguignon?

You can thicken the sauce by mixing cornstarch with cold water or adding more flour during cooking. Simmering uncovered also helps reduce liquid.

Is this Beef Bourguignon recipe easy for beginners?

Absolutely! This recipe breaks down each step clearly, making it accessible even if you’re new to cooking. Just follow along carefully!

Can I customize this recipe?

Definitely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust herbs based on your taste preferences.

Final Thoughts

This Beef Bourguignon recipe is not only comforting but also versatile enough for any winter gathering. With its rich flavors and tender meat, it’s sure to impress family and friends alike. Don’t hesitate to customize it with extra veggies or herbs according to your liking!