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 stands out with its deep flavors and comforting appeal, making it a favorite among family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The combination of beef, wine, and herbs creates a deep, savory flavor that’s hard to resist.
• Perfect for Gatherings: This dish serves six, making it ideal for family dinners or holiday celebrations.
• One-Pot Wonder: With everything cooked in one pot, cleanup is simple after enjoying a delightful meal.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily adjust the vegetables or add your favorites for a personal touch.
• Impressive Presentation: Serve this dish in its cooking pot for an elegant look that will wow your guests.

Tools and Preparation

To make Classic Beef Bourguignon, having the right tools will make the process smoother and more enjoyable. Below are some essential items you’ll need.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven
• Silicone spoon
• Slotted spoon
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven: Perfect for slow-cooking and retaining heat, ensuring even cooking of the beef.
• Silicone spoon: Ideal for scraping up browned bits without damaging your cookware.
• Slotted spoon: Useful for removing cooked bacon and transferring ingredients without excess fat.

Ingredients

For the Base

• 5 strips bacon, cut into 1 pieces
• 3 1/2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 2 pieces
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided

Vegetables and Aromatics

• 1 yellow onion, chopped
• 3 large carrots, peeled and chopped
• 5 garlic cloves, minced

Flavor Enhancers

• 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

Herbs and Extras

• 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 (175°C) to prepare for slow cooking.

Step 2: Render the Bacon

• Add the chopped bacon to your 5 qt Dutch oven.
• Turn the heat to medium-low and cook until browned, stirring occasionally.
• Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon from the pan and transfer it to a small bowl.

Step 3: Sear the Beef

• Season the cubes of beef with kosher salt and freshly cracked pepper.
• Increase heat to medium-high; sear the beef on all sides until browned.
• Remove the beef from the pan once it’s nicely browned.

Step 4: Sauté the Veggies

• Decrease heat to medium; add 2 tablespoons of butter.
• Add chopped onions and carrots; sauté for 2–3 minutes while stirring frequently.
• Add minced garlic; cook for another minute.
• Stir in tomato paste; cook until darkened (about 2–3 minutes).
• Sprinkle flour over vegetables; stir well to incorporate. Cook for another 2–3 minutes while stirring constantly.

Step 5: Add Wine, Stock, and Herbs

• Pour Burgundy wine into the pot; scrape up any browned bits from the bottom using a silicone spoon.
• Add beef stock and bouillon; bring mixture to a simmer.
• Return seared beef and rendered bacon back into the pot along with thyme and bay leaves.
• Cover with a lid; transfer to preheated oven. Cook for about 2.5 hours.

Step 6: Add Mushrooms and Pearl Onions

• Around 2.5 hours in:
  Melt remaining butter in a skillet over medium-high heat.
  Once hot, add quartered mushrooms; cook until browned.
  Add pearl onions; cook until browned (about another 5 minutes). Season with salt and pepper.

Step 7: Final Cooking Phase

• Remove the Dutch oven from oven:
  Stir in mushrooms and pearl onions into the beef mixture.
  Return covered pot back to oven; bake until beef is very tender (about another 45–60 minutes).
  Allow to rest covered for about 30 minutes before serving.

This recipe serves six people, making it perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners with friends! Enjoy your delicious Classic Beef Bourguignon!

How to Serve Classic Beef Bourguignon

Classic Beef Bourguignon is a dish that speaks for itself, yet how you serve it can enhance the overall experience. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

With Crusty Bread

• Pair slices of warm, crusty baguette with the stew to soak up the rich sauce. This adds a comforting texture and flavor.

Over Mashed Potatoes

• Serve the beef bourguignon over creamy mashed potatoes. The smooth potatoes complement the hearty meat and sauce perfectly.

Accompanied by Egg Noodles

• Egg noodles provide a soft and silky base for the beef bourguignon. Toss them lightly in butter to enhance their flavor.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or thyme on top for a pop of color and brightness. It adds freshness to each serving.

With a Side Salad

• A light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can balance the richness of the dish. Consider using arugula or mixed greens.

Served with Red Wine

• Complement your meal with a glass of Burgundy or another bold red wine. It enhances the flavors of the beef bourguignon beautifully.

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How to Perfect Classic Beef Bourguignon

To make your Classic Beef Bourguignon truly exceptional, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Quality Ingredients: The better your beef and wine, the more flavorful your stew will be.
• Sear Properly: Take time when searing the beef; this caramelization adds depth to your dish.
• Simmer Slowly: Allowing the stew to simmer gently ensures that all flavors meld together beautifully.
• Let It Rest: Letting the dish sit before serving allows flavors to develop further and makes it even tastier.
• Adjust Seasoning: Always taste before serving; adjusting salt and pepper can elevate the final dish.
• Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to add herbs like rosemary or oregano for a unique twist on traditional flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Classic Beef Bourguignon

When enjoying Classic Beef Bourguignon, pairing it with side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal vegetables roasted until tender add color and nutrition.
2. Green Beans Almondine – Crisp-tender green beans sautéed with almonds provide a crunchy contrast.
3. Ratatouille – This medley of vegetables adds freshness and vibrant flavors that complement the stew.
4. Polenta – Creamy polenta offers a comforting base that soaks up all the delicious sauce.
5. Herbed Rice – Fluffy rice seasoned with fresh herbs is an excellent way to enjoy every drop of sauce.
6. Garlic Mashed Cauliflower – A lighter alternative to potatoes, this dish retains creaminess while adding garlic flavor.
7. Crusty Rolls – Soft rolls are perfect for dipping into the rich gravy, making every bite satisfying.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Classic Beef Bourguignon can be a rewarding experience, but there are common pitfalls that can affect the outcome.

• Skipping the browning step: Not searing the beef properly can lead to a lack of flavor. Always brown the meat well to develop a rich taste.
• Overcooking vegetables: Cooking vegetables too long before adding liquids can make them mushy. Sauté them just enough to soften, then add other ingredients.
• Using low-quality wine: The wine you use significantly impacts the dish’s flavor. Choose a good quality Burgundy or bold red wine for the best results.
• Neglecting seasoning: Under-seasoning can result in blandness. Season each layer of your dish, from the beef to the final product, with salt and pepper.
• Not letting it rest: Serving immediately after cooking can reduce flavor intensity. Letting your Classic Beef Bourguignon rest allows flavors to meld beautifully.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Classic Beef Bourguignon

• Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
• Portion into smaller containers for easy defrosting.

Reheating Classic Beef Bourguignon

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat covered for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish and heat on medium power for 5-7 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Classic Beef Bourguignon.

What cut of beef is best for Classic Beef Bourguignon?

Chuck roast is ideal due to its marbling and tenderness when slow-cooked. It absorbs flavors well and becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender.

Can I make Classic Beef Bourguignon in advance?

Yes! This dish actually tastes better the next day as the flavors continue to develop, making it perfect for meal prep or entertaining.

Is there a vegetarian version of Classic Beef Bourguignon?

Absolutely! You can substitute beef with hearty vegetables like mushrooms and seitan, using vegetable stock instead of beef stock for a plant-based twist.

How do I thicken Classic Beef Bourguignon?

If your sauce is too thin, you can simmer it uncovered until it reduces. Alternatively, mix a bit of cornstarch with water and stir it into the sauce while it simmers.

Final Thoughts

Classic Beef Bourguignon is not only a comforting dish but also versatile enough for any occasion. With its rich flavors and tender meat, it’s sure to impress your guests or bring warmth during chilly evenings. Feel free to customize by adding your favorite vegetables or herbs!