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 is beloved for its deep flavors and comforting nature, making it a standout choice for gatherings with family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The combination of beef, red wine, and herbs creates an unforgettable taste that warms the soul.
• Perfect for Gatherings: This dish can serve a crowd, making it ideal for family dinners or festive occasions.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Classic Beef Bourguignon tastes even better the next day, allowing you to prepare it in advance.
• One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required since everything cooks in one pot, letting you enjoy more time with your guests.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily adapt this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or side dishes.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather the necessary tools to simplify your experience in the kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 5 qt Dutch oven
• Slotted spoon
• Silicone spatula
• Skillet

Importance of Each Tool

• 5 qt Dutch oven: This versatile pot is perfect for slow cooking and can be used on both stovetop and oven.
• Slotted spoon: Ideal for transferring cooked ingredients without excess liquid, making your cooking process smoother.
• Silicone spatula: Great for scraping up browned bits from the bottom of the pot without damaging your cookware.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 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 temperature will help achieve tender meat throughout the cooking process.

Step 2: Render the Bacon

Add the chopped bacon to your Dutch oven. Turn the heat to medium-low and cook until it’s browned and has released fat. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon and set aside.

Step 3: Sear the Beef

Season beef cubes with kosher salt and freshly cracked pepper. Increase heat to medium-high and sear them on all sides until browned. You may need to do this in batches. Remove the beef from the pot once done.

Step 4: Sauté the Veggies

Reduce heat to medium; add two tablespoons of butter. Add chopped onions and carrots. Sauté for about 2–3 minutes while stirring often. Next, add minced garlic for another minute. Stir in tomato paste and cook until darkened (about 2–3 minutes). Sprinkle flour over veggies; stir well and cook for another few minutes.

Step 5: Add Wine, Stock, and Herbs

Pour in Burgundy wine while scraping browned bits from the pot’s bottom using a silicone spatula. Add beef stock and bouillon; bring to simmer. Return beef and bacon back into the pot along with thyme sprigs and bay leaves. Cover pot and transfer it to preheated oven; cook for about 2½ hours.

Step 6: Add Mushrooms and Pearl Onions

Around the two-and-a-half-hour mark, melt remaining butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add quartered cremini mushrooms; cook until browned. Add pearl onions; cook an additional five minutes until they are also browned. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 7: Final Cooking

Remove Dutch oven from oven; stir in mushrooms and pearl onions. Return pot to oven for another 45–60 minutes until beef is very tender. Allow it to sit covered for about thirty minutes before serving.

This Classic Beef Bourguignon will surely impress everyone at your table! Enjoy this luxurious dish that embodies comfort food at its finest!

How to Serve Classic Beef Bourguignon

Classic Beef Bourguignon is a hearty dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Serving it right enhances the flavors and makes the meal memorable for you and your guests.

With Crusty Bread

• Baguette slices – Serve with fresh baguette slices for dipping into the rich sauce.
• Garlic bread – A side of garlic bread adds an aromatic twist, perfect for soaking up the juices.

Over Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy mashed potatoes – The smooth texture of mashed potatoes pairs beautifully with the robust beef stew.
• Garlic mashed potatoes – For an added kick, try garlic-infused mashed potatoes that complement the dish’s flavors.

With Fresh Herbs

• Chopped parsley – Sprinkling fresh parsley on top adds brightness and color.
• Thyme sprigs – A few thyme sprigs can enhance the herbal notes of your classic beef bourguignon.

Accompanied by Salad

• Mixed greens salad – A light salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the beef.
• Caesar salad – The creamy dressing of a Caesar salad provides a nice contrast to the robust stew.

With Rice or Polenta

• Steamed rice – Simple white or brown rice absorbs the sauce well.
• Creamy polenta – For a more decadent touch, serve over creamy polenta for a comforting experience.

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How to Perfect Classic Beef Bourguignon

To elevate your Classic Beef Bourguignon, consider these essential tips:

• Use quality wine – A good-quality Burgundy wine enhances the overall flavor profile significantly.
• Marinate overnight – Letting the beef marinate in wine overnight can deepen flavors and tenderize the meat.
• Brown meat properly – Ensure you sear the beef until it’s well-browned; this adds depth to your stew.
• Don’t rush cooking time – Slow cooking allows flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a tender and flavorful dish.
• Adjust seasoning at the end – Taste before serving; adjusting salt and pepper enhances overall taste.
• Let it rest before serving – Allowing your classic beef bourguignon to rest helps develop flavors even more.

Best Side Dishes for Classic Beef Bourguignon

Pairing side dishes with your Classic Beef Bourguignon can enhance your meal. Here are some delightful options:

1. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized add sweetness and color to your plate.
2. Green Beans Almondine – Crisp-tender green beans sautéed with almonds offer a crunchy contrast.
3. Ratatouille – This traditional French vegetable medley complements the rich flavors of beef bourguignon.
4. Polenta Fries – Crispy polenta fries provide a fun twist, perfect for dipping into sauce.
5. Colcannon – A mix of mashed potatoes and cabbage brings warmth and comfort alongside your beef stew.
6. Crispy Brussels Sprouts – Roasted Brussels sprouts lend a nutty flavor that balances richness nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Classic Beef Bourguignon, it’s easy to go off track. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the browning step: Not browning the beef properly can lead to less flavor. Always sear the meat until it’s golden brown to enhance the taste.
• Using low-quality wine: The wine is a key ingredient; poor quality can ruin the dish. Choose a good Burgundy or bold red wine for the best results.
• Neglecting to season: Failing to season at different stages makes for a bland dish. Season the beef and vegetables well throughout the cooking process.
• Rushing the cooking time: Cooking too quickly can result in tough meat. Allow enough time for slow cooking to ensure tenderness and flavor development.
• Not letting it rest: Serving immediately can affect texture. Letting it rest after cooking improves flavor and allows the sauce to thicken.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Make sure it cools completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Classic Beef Bourguignon

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Leave space at the top of the container for expansion.

Reheating Classic Beef Bourguignon

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place in a covered dish, and heat until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat on medium-low in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Classic Beef Bourguignon.

What is Classic Beef Bourguignon?

Classic Beef Bourguignon is a traditional French stew made with beef braised in red wine, often served with vegetables.

Can I use other types of meat for this recipe?

While beef is classic, you can experiment with lamb or chicken, but adjust cooking times accordingly.

How do I make Classic Beef Bourguignon gluten-free?

Use gluten-free flour as a thickener instead of all-purpose flour for a suitable alternative.

What side dishes pair well with Classic Beef Bourguignon?

Serve it with crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Can I prepare Classic Beef Bourguignon ahead of time?

Yes! It can be made a day ahead and tastes even better after resting overnight in the fridge.

Final Thoughts

Classic Beef Bourguignon is not only delicious but also versatile. Perfect for cozy dinners or holiday gatherings, this dish invites customization—add your favorite root vegetables or herbs for a personal touch. Try making it today; you won’t regret it!