Beef Bourguignon
Beef Bourguignon is a classic French stew made by slow-cooking tender beef in a rich red wine sauce with aromatic vegetables and herbs. This hearty dish is perfect for a cozy family meal and brings a taste of French tradition to your table.
Ingredients
- Beef: 2.5 lbs chuck roast or brisket cut into chunks
- Red Wine: 2 cups Burgundy or any full-bodied red wine
- Beef Broth: 2 cups
- Bacon: 4 slices chopped
- Carrots: 3 sliced
- Onions: 2 large chopped
- Garlic: 4 cloves minced
- Mushrooms optional: 8 oz, sliced
- Tomato Paste: 2 tablespoons
- Thyme: 2-3 sprigs fresh thyme or 1 teaspoon dried
- Bay Leaves: 2
- Flour: 2 tablespoons
- Butter: 2 tablespoons
- Salt and Pepper: to taste
- Pearl Onions optional: 8-10, peeled
Instructions
Marinate the Beef:
- Cut the beef into large chunks. In a large bowl, combine the beef, red wine, minced garlic, and thyme. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
Prepare the Vegetables:
- Slice the carrots, chop the onions, and mince the garlic. If using, slice the mushrooms.
Cook the Bacon:
- In a large pot, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving the fat in the pot.
Sauté Vegetables:
- In the same pot, add butter and sauté the carrots, onions, and garlic until lightly caramelized. Add the mushrooms and cook until soft. Remove the vegetables from the pot and set aside.
Brown the Beef:
- Dredge the marinated beef chunks in flour. In the same pot, brown the beef on all sides in the leftover bacon fat. This step locks in the juices and flavor.
Combine Ingredients:
- Return the sautéed vegetables and bacon to the pot with the browned beef. Add tomato paste, remaining wine from the marinade, and beef broth. Stir in the thyme, bay leaves, and pearl onions if using.
Simmer the Stew:
- Bring everything to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 2.5 to 3 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beef is tender and the sauce is rich and thick.
Serve:
- Serve the Beef Bourguignon hot, garnished with fresh parsley. Pair with creamy mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Notes
For the best flavor, use a wine that you enjoy drinking, as its quality will impact the dish. Preparing Beef Bourguignon a day ahead and reheating can enhance the flavors even further.