There’s something truly magical about a steaming bowl of beef bourguignon. This classic French dish is like a warm hug on a chilly evening, with its rich flavors and tender beef that practically melts in your mouth. I first discovered this recipe while traveling through France, and I fell in love with the way it combines simple ingredients to create something so wonderfully comforting. Trust me, there’s nothing quite like the aroma of beef simmering in red wine, filling your kitchen with a savory scent that draws everyone in. Whenever I make it, I’m reminded of cozy family dinners and the joy of sharing good food with loved ones. It’s a timeless recipe that never fails to impress!

Ingredients for Beef Bourguignon

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making a delicious beef bourguignon that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes – This is the star of the show! Choose a nice cut for tender results.
• 1 bottle red wine (750 ml) – A good quality wine will elevate the flavor, so pick one you’d enjoy sipping! Learn more about choosing the right wine for cooking.
• 2 cups beef broth – This adds richness to the stew, enhancing the beefy goodness.
• 4 slices bacon, chopped – Bacon brings that smoky flavor we all love; it’s a must!
• 1 onion, diced – A little sweetness from the onion is perfect for balancing the savory flavors.
• 2 carrots, sliced – These add a nice texture and a hint of sweetness as they cook down.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – Garlic is essential for that aromatic base; it’s a flavor powerhouse!
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste – This deepens the color and flavor of the stew.
• 1 teaspoon thyme – Fresh or dried, thyme adds a lovely herbaceous note.
• 2 bay leaves – These will infuse the dish with a subtle depth of flavor.
• 1 pound mushrooms, quartered – Mushrooms bring an earthy taste that complements the beef beautifully.
• 2 tablespoons flour – This helps thicken the sauce, giving it that luxurious feel.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Simple but essential for seasoning the dish just right.
• Fresh parsley for garnish – A sprinkle of parsley adds a pop of color and freshness at the end.

With these ingredients, you’re on your way to creating a comforting beef bourguignon that will warm your heart and fill your belly!

How to Prepare Beef Bourguignon

Preparing beef bourguignon might seem like a big task, but I promise it’s worth every minute. Follow these steps, and you’ll create a dish that’s both comforting and delicious!

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

First things first, we need to cook the bacon! In a large pot over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until it’s nice and crispy, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Be sure to stir it occasionally to get it evenly browned. Once it’s done, remove it from the pot and set it aside, but don’t toss that glorious bacon grease! We’ll use it to add incredible flavor to our stew.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Now, let’s brown the beef cubes! In the same pot, add the beef in batches (don’t crowd the pot, or it won’t brown properly). Cook each batch for about 3-4 minutes until nicely browned on all sides. This step is crucial because browning the meat develops a deep, rich flavor that’s essential for a great beef bourguignon. Once browned, remove the beef and set it aside with the bacon.

Step 3: Prepare the Vegetables

Next up, it’s time for the veggies! Add the diced onion and sliced carrots to the pot, and sauté them for about 5 minutes until they’re softened and fragrant. You want the onions to be translucent and the carrots to lose their raw edge. This builds a lovely base for your stew!

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Now, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it’s aromatic. Then, add the tomato paste, thyme, bay leaves, and flour. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed, and the flour is incorporated. This will help thicken your stew later on.

Step 5: Simmering Process

Here comes the fun part! Pour in the bottle of red wine and the beef broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. It’s important to let it simmer so the flavors marry beautifully and the alcohol cooks off, which usually takes about 5 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when you see small bubbles forming on the surface.

Step 6: Final Cooking Steps

Finally, add the browned beef and crispy bacon back into the pot. Give it a good stir, then cover the pot and let it simmer on low heat for 2 hours. This slow cooking allows the beef to become tender and soak up all those amazing flavors. After 2 hours, toss in the quartered mushrooms and let it cook for an additional 30 minutes. Don’t forget to check the seasoning and adjust with salt and pepper to taste before serving!

Tips for Making Perfect Beef Bourguignon

Making the perfect beef bourguignon is all about taking your time and enjoying the process. Here are some of my top tips to help you avoid common pitfalls and elevate your dish:

• Don’t Rush the Browning: This step is crucial for developing deep flavor, so take your time. Browning the beef and bacon properly adds a rich, savory base to your stew. It’s worth the wait!
• Use Good Quality Wine: Since wine is a key ingredient, choose one that you enjoy drinking. A good-quality red wine will enhance the flavor of your dish immensely. Remember, if it’s not good enough to drink, it’s not good enough for cooking!
• Season as You Go: Tasting and adjusting the seasoning at various stages is essential. Don’t be shy about adding salt and pepper throughout the cooking process to build layers of flavor.
• Let It Sit: If you have leftovers (and you probably will!), let them sit in the fridge overnight. The flavors will develop even more, making the dish taste even better the next day!
• Experiment with Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like potatoes or peas. Just ensure they’re cut into appropriate sizes so they cook evenly. It’s a great way to make the dish your own!

With these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to creating a beef bourguignon that not only tastes incredible but also impresses everyone at the table!

Nutritional Information

While I always recommend focusing on the joy of cooking and sharing, it’s good to be aware of the nutritional aspects of the meals we prepare. Keep in mind that nutrition can vary based on the specific brands and ingredients you use, so these values are approximate:

• Serving Size: 1 bowl
• Calories: 550
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 120mg
• Sodium: 800mg
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 4g
• Protein: 45g

So as you prepare your beef bourguignon, enjoy each bite knowing you’re indulging in a hearty meal that brings people together around the table!

FAQ About Beef Bourguignon

Got questions about making beef bourguignon? I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries that might pop up while you’re cooking this delightful French dish.

Can I use a different cut of beef?

Absolutely! While beef chuck is my go-to for its tenderness and flavor, you can also use brisket or round. Just choose a cut that’s suitable for slow cooking to ensure it becomes tender.

What type of red wine should I use?

Stick with a dry red wine like Pinot Noir or Merlot. These varieties complement the beef beautifully. Remember, if it’s not good enough to drink, it’s not good enough to cook with!

Can I make this dish in advance?

Yes! In fact, it’s one of those dishes that tastes even better the next day. Just let it cool, store it in the fridge, and reheat gently when you’re ready to serve. The flavors will meld together beautifully!

Is beef bourguignon gluten-free?

Yes, it can be! Just make sure you use a gluten-free flour or skip the flour entirely if you need it to be gluten-free. The dish will still be delicious!

What should I serve with beef bourguignon?

Crusty bread is a classic choice for soaking up that rich sauce, but mashed potatoes or a creamy polenta are fantastic options too! Just think about something that can carry all that delicious flavor!

Why You’ll Love This Beef Bourguignon Recipe

• Comforting and Hearty: This dish is like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for chilly nights or cozy gatherings.
• Rich, Deep Flavors: The combination of tender beef, aromatic herbs, and a robust red wine creates an unforgettable taste experience.
• Perfect for Entertaining: Impress your guests with this classic French dish that looks and tastes gourmet but is totally achievable at home.
• Great for Leftovers: It tastes even better the next day, making it an ideal make-ahead meal for busy weeks.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or tweak the recipe to suit your taste—make it your own!
• Simple Cooking Method: With a straightforward braising technique, you’ll find that it’s easier than it sounds and requires minimal active time.

Serving Suggestions for Beef Bourguignon

When it comes to serving beef bourguignon, I love to keep it simple yet satisfying! Here are a few ideas that pair perfectly with this rich and flavorful dish:

• Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty baguette is perfect for soaking up that delicious sauce. You’ll want to have plenty on hand for dipping!
• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes make a fabulous base for the bourguignon, allowing you to enjoy every last drop of that savory gravy.
• Egg Noodles: Serve it over buttered egg noodles for a comforting combination that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
• Polenta: Creamy polenta adds a delightful texture and complements the richness of the beef perfectly.
• Steamed Green Beans: For a pop of color and freshness, serve some lightly steamed green beans or sautéed spinach on the side. They add a nice balance to the meal!

No matter what you choose to serve alongside your beef bourguignon, the key is to enjoy every bite and share the warmth of this delightful dish with family and friends!

Beef Bourguignon: 7 Steps to Perfectly Comforting Delight

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• Author: Julia marin
• Total Time: 2 hours 50 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

A classic French beef stew with rich flavors.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 bottle red wine (750 ml)
• 2 cups beef broth
• 4 slices bacon, chopped
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon thyme
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 pound mushrooms, quartered
• 2 tablespoons flour
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

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Instructions

1. In a large pot, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside.
2. In the bacon grease, brown the beef cubes in batches. Remove the beef and set aside.
3. Add the onion and carrots to the pot. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.
5. Add the tomato paste, thyme, bay leaves, and flour. Stir well.
6. Pour in the wine and beef broth. Bring to a simmer.
7. Add the beef and bacon back into the pot. Cover and simmer for 2 hours.
8. Add the mushrooms and cook for an additional 30 minutes.
9. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
10. Serve hot, garnished with parsley.

Notes

• Use a good quality wine for better flavor.
• Don’t rush the browning of the beef; it adds depth to the dish.
• Feel free to add other vegetables like potatoes or peas.
• Leftovers taste even better the next day.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Braising
• Cuisine: French

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl
• Calories: 550
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 45g
• Cholesterol: 120mg

Keywords: beef bourguignon, French beef stew, easy beef recipe