Classic Beef Bourguignon

As far as French cuisine goes, this Classic Beef Bourguignon is a must-make! Tender beef swimming in a rich wine sauce makes it perfect for the holidays or any special occasion. This dish combines hearty flavors and cozy warmth, ensuring every bite is a delight. Its deep, savory profile and meltingly tender beef create an experience that brings friends and family together around the table.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The combination of red wine, beef stock, and herbs results in an unforgettable taste that elevates any meal.
• Hearty Comfort: This dish is the ultimate comfort food, warming you up on cold nights or during festive gatherings.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over mashed potatoes, with crusty bread, or alongside roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
• Impressive Presentation: Perfect for entertaining guests, this classic dish looks stunning and shows off your culinary skills.
• Make Ahead: Prepare it in advance! It tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect Classic Beef Bourguignon, having the right tools makes all the difference. These essential kitchen gadgets will help you achieve the best results while keeping your cooking experience enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 5 qt Dutch oven
• Silicone spoon
• Skillet
• Slotted spoon
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife

Importance of Each Tool

• 5 qt Dutch oven: Ideal for slow-cooking and braising, it retains heat well and allows for even cooking.
• Silicone spoon: Great for scraping up browned bits without damaging your cookware.
• Skillet: Perfect for sautéing vegetables separately before adding them to the main dish.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this Classic Beef Bourguignon:

• 5 strips bacon, cut into 1 pieces
• 3 1/2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 2 pieces
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
• 1 yellow onion, chopped
• 3 large carrots, peeled and chopped
• 5 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups Burgundy wine, or other bold red wine
• 2 cups beef stock
• 1 tablespoon Better than Bouillon beef bouillon
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme
• 2 bay leaves, dried or fresh
• 10 oz frozen pearl onions, defrosted and drained
• 16 oz cremini mushrooms, quartered
• kosher salt
• freshly cracked pepper

How to Make Classic Beef Bourguignon

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 F. This initial step ensures that your dish cooks evenly.

Step 2: Render the Bacon

Add the chopped bacon to your Dutch oven. Turn the heat to medium-low. Cook, stirring occasionally until browned. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Sear the Beef

Season cubes of beef with salt and pepper. Increase heat to medium-high and sear beef on all sides until nicely browned. You may need to do this in batches. Remove beef from pan.

Step 4: Sauté the Veggies

Lower heat back to medium, then add 2 tablespoons of butter. Add chopped onions and carrots; sauté for about 2–3 minutes while stirring frequently. Next, add minced garlic; cook for another minute. Stir in tomato paste; cook until darkened (about 2–3 minutes). Sprinkle flour over veggies; stir constantly for another few minutes.

Step 5: Add Wine, Stock, and Herbs

Pour wine into the pot. Use your silicone spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom. Add beef broth and bouillon; bring to a simmer. Return beef and bacon to pot along with thyme and bay leaves. Cover pot and transfer it to your preheated oven. Cook for about 2½ hours.

Step 6: Add Mushrooms and Pearl Onions

Around the last half hour of cooking time, melt remaining butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once foamy, add quartered mushrooms; cook until browned. Add pearl onions; season with salt and pepper while cooking another five minutes.

Step 7: Final Cooking

Remove Beef Bourguignon from oven at end of cooking time. Stir in mushrooms and onions. Return to oven for an additional 45–60 minutes until beef is very tender. Let it sit covered for about thirty minutes before serving.

With these easy-to-follow steps, you’ll create a Classic Beef Bourguignon that will impress everyone at your table! Enjoy!

How to Serve Classic Beef Bourguignon

Classic Beef Bourguignon is a hearty dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. Serving this rich stew can enhance the dining experience, making it not just a meal but a gathering of flavors and aromas.

With Crusty Bread

• Baguette – Serve slices of fresh baguette for dipping into the savory sauce.
• Sourdough – The tanginess of sourdough complements the richness of the beef.

Over Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy Mashed Potatoes – Place a generous scoop of beef bourguignon atop fluffy mashed potatoes for a comforting dish.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Infuse your mashed potatoes with garlic for an extra layer of flavor.

Accompanied by Rice

• White Rice – A simple side that soaks up the delicious sauce beautifully.
• Wild Rice – Offers a nutty flavor and chewy texture that pairs well with the stew.

With a Fresh Salad

• Mixed Greens Salad – A light salad with vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich beef.
• Caesar Salad – The creaminess of Caesar dressing balances the hearty stew perfectly.

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How to Perfect Classic Beef Bourguignon

Perfecting your Classic Beef Bourguignon takes practice but can lead to an exceptional meal. Here are some tips to enhance your dish.

• Use Quality Meat – Choose high-quality beef chuck for tenderness and flavor.
• Don’t Rush the Browning Process – Searing beef properly creates deep flavors and enhances the stew’s richness.
• Let It Rest – Allowing the dish to sit after cooking lets flavors meld and improves taste.
• Adjust Seasonings – Taste before serving; add salt or pepper as needed for perfect seasoning.
• Experiment with Wine – While Burgundy is traditional, other bold red wines like Cabernet Sauvignon can work well too.

Best Side Dishes for Classic Beef Bourguignon

Pairing side dishes with Classic Beef Bourguignon can elevate your meal. Here are some delightful options that complement this French classic.

1. Garlic Bread – Crunchy, buttery bread infused with garlic makes for perfect dipping.
2. Green Beans Almondine – Lightly sautéed green beans with almonds add freshness and crunch.
3. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal veggies drizzled in olive oil bring color and healthiness to your plate.
4. Polenta – Creamy polenta serves as a smooth base that pairs beautifully with the stew’s richness.
5. Ratatouille – This vegetable medley offers a taste of Provence, enhancing your French meal theme.
6. Buttered Noodles – Simple noodles tossed in butter provide a comforting side without overpowering the main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Classic Beef Bourguignon can be a rewarding experience, but it’s easy to stumble on certain details. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the browning step: Not searing the beef properly can lead to a bland flavor. Always brown your beef cubes well to develop rich flavors.
• Using low-quality wine: The wine significantly affects the dish’s taste. Choose a good-quality Burgundy or bold red wine for the best results.
• Overcooking the vegetables: If you cook vegetables too long before adding them to the stew, they may become mushy. Saute them just until they start to soften for optimal texture.
• Ignoring thyme and bay leaves: These herbs are crucial for depth of flavor. Don’t skip them and make sure to use fresh when possible.
• Not letting it rest: Serving immediately after cooking can affect tenderness. Allowing the dish to rest helps flavors meld and enhances tenderness.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Let it cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Classic Beef Bourguignon

• Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space in the container for expansion as it freezes.

Reheating Classic Beef Bourguignon

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and cover with foil, reheating for about 30 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (1-2 minutes), stirring in between until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Simmer gently over low heat, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Classic Beef Bourguignon that might help you perfect this recipe.

What is Classic Beef Bourguignon?

Classic Beef Bourguignon is a traditional French stew made with beef braised in red wine, often with carrots, onions, and mushrooms. It’s known for its rich flavor and tender meat.

Can I use different cuts of beef?

While beef chuck is recommended, you can also use brisket or round cuts. Just ensure they have enough marbling for flavor and tenderness.

How long does it take to make Classic Beef Bourguignon?

The total time is about 4 hours, including preparation and cooking. However, most of this time involves slow cooking, making it a great make-ahead option.

Can I customize my Classic Beef Bourguignon?

Absolutely! You can add other vegetables like potatoes or peas, or even substitute some ingredients based on what you have on hand.

Final Thoughts

Classic Beef Bourguignon is a delightful recipe that brings warmth and comfort to any table. Its deep flavors make it perfect for gatherings or cozy family dinners. Don’t hesitate to customize this stew with your favorite ingredients; it’s versatile enough to fit any palate!

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Classic Beef Bourguignon

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• Author: Tina
• Total Time: 3 hours 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

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Description

Classic Beef Bourguignon is a quintessential French dish that delivers an unforgettable dining experience. This hearty stew features tender chunks of beef braised in a rich red wine sauce, complemented by aromatic herbs, savory bacon, and a medley of vegetables. Perfect for cozy family dinners or festive gatherings, this recipe promises to envelop your taste buds with its deep flavors and comforting warmth. With its stunning presentation and make-ahead convenience, Classic Beef Bourguignon is sure to impress your guests while showcasing your culinary prowess.

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Ingredients

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• 5 strips bacon
• 3 1/2 lbs beef chuck
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 yellow onion
• 3 large carrots
• 5 garlic cloves
• 2 cups Burgundy wine
• 2 cups beef stock
• 1 tablespoon Better than Bouillon beef bouillon
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme
• 2 bay leaves
• 16 oz cremini mushrooms
• 10 oz frozen pearl onions
• kosher salt
• freshly cracked pepper

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a Dutch oven, cook chopped bacon over medium-low heat until browned; remove and set aside.
3. Season beef cubes with salt and pepper; sear in the same pot until browned on all sides; remove.
4. Sauté onion and carrots in remaining fat, then add garlic and tomato paste; stir in flour.
5. Pour in wine, scrape the bottom for flavor; add beef stock, bouillon, thyme, bay leaves, beef, and bacon back into the pot.
6. Cover and bake for about 2½ hours.
7. Sauté mushrooms in butter; add with pearl onions during the last half hour of cooking.
8. Let rest before serving.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 3 hours
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: French

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 460
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 920mg
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 35g
• Cholesterol: 100mg