Hey y’all! If you’re looking for a dish that’s both hearty and elegant, look no further than Classic Beef Bourguignon. This savory, slow-cooked stew is full of rich flavors and tender beef that will have everyone at your table asking for seconds. Perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion, this dish is a true crowd-pleaser. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This
- Rich Flavor: The slow cooking process allows the beef and vegetables to absorb the flavorful wine sauce.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family dinner or a celebration, this dish fits the bill.
- Comfort Food at Its Best: The tender beef and aromatic herbs make it the ultimate comfort meal.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Tastes even better the next day, so it’s great for meal prep.
Ingredients for Classic Beef Bourguignon
- 2 lbs (900g) beef chuck, cut into 2-inch cubes
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 3 cups red wine
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 bouquet garni (parsley, thyme, and bay leaf)
- 1 pound (450g) pearl onions
- 1/2 pound (225g) mushrooms, quartered
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Beef
Season the beef cubes with salt and pepper. In a large Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Brown the beef in batches, removing to a plate as each batch is done.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot, add onion, carrots, and garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent. Stir in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, until it forms a paste.
Step 3: Simmer the Stew
Pour in the wine and beef broth, scraping the bottom of the pot to loosen any brown bits. Add the tomato paste and bouquet garni. Return the beef to the pot. Cover and simmer for 2.5 to 3 hours, until the beef is tender.
Step 4: Final Touches
In a separate pan, sauté pearl onions and mushrooms until golden. Add them to the stew for the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Notes
- You can substitute beef chuck with brisket or round for different textures. For more beef cut options, check out Beef It’s What’s For Dinner.
- To enhance the flavor, use a wine that you would enjoy drinking. Need help choosing? Visit Wine Folly.
Variations
- Vegetarian: Swap beef with hearty vegetables like eggplant and potatoes, and use vegetable broth.
- Poultry: Substitute beef with chicken thighs for a lighter version.
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for some heat.
Required Equipment
- Dutch oven or heavy pot
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Wooden spoon
Storage Instructions
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop.
Suggested Pairings
Serve your Classic Beef Bourguignon with crusty French bread, creamy mashed potatoes, or a side of buttered noodles.
Pro Tips
- Always brown the beef in batches to avoid overcrowding the pot, ensuring even browning.
- Let the stew rest for a day in the fridge to enhance the flavors. Learn more about flavor melding here.
- Use fresh herbs for the bouquet garni to impart a more vibrant aroma.
FAQ
- Can I make Beef Bourguignon in a slow cooker? Yes, after browning the beef and sautéing the vegetables, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 8 hours.
- What type of red wine is best? A full-bodied red wine like Burgundy or Pinot Noir works well for this dish.
- How can I thicken the sauce? If needed, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with water and stir into the stew during the last 10 minutes of cooking.