Classic Beef Bourguignon: A Timeless French Dish

Introduction

Classic Beef Bourguignon is a rich and hearty stew that embodies the essence of French cuisine. With tender chunks of beef slow-cooked in red wine, aromatic vegetables, and herbs, this dish is perfect for special occasions or a cozy dinner at home.

Ingredients

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
10 oz frozen pearl onions, defrosted and drained
16 oz cremini mushrooms, quartered
Kosher salt and freshly cracked pepper

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Sear the Beef: In a large Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Season the beef with salt and pepper and sear on all sides in batches until browned. Remove the beef and set aside.
3. Sauté Vegetables: Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the pot. Sauté the chopped onion and carrots until softened, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and stir in the tomato paste, cooking until the paste darkens, about 1-2 minutes.
4. Thicken with Flour: Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Pour in the wine, beef stock, and bouillon, scraping the bottom of the pot to deglaze.
5. Combine and Braise: Return the seared beef to the pot along with thyme sprigs and bay leaves. Cover the Dutch oven and transfer it to the preheated oven. Braise for 2 1/2 hours.
6. Sauté Mushrooms and Pearl Onions: In a skillet, melt the remaining butter and sauté the mushrooms until browned, about 5 minutes. Add the pearl onions and cook until caramelized.
7. Final Bake: After 2 1/2 hours, add the sautéed mushrooms and onions to the stew. Return to the oven uncovered and continue baking for another 45-60 minutes, until the beef is tender and the sauce has thickened.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves approximately 6-8 people and takes about 4 hours from start to finish, including preparation and cooking time.

Variations

• Add Herbs: Fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley can enhance the flavor.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute beef with hearty vegetables such as mushrooms and root vegetables for a vegetarian stew.
• Different Wines: While Burgundy is traditional, any bold red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot works well.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. The flavors often improve after a day in the fridge!

10 FAQs

1. Can I use a different cut of beef? Yes, you can use other cuts like brisket or chuck roast, but chuck is recommended for tenderness.
2. What type of wine should I use? A bold red wine, such as Burgundy, Merlot, or Cabernet Sauvignon, is best.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, it can be made a day in advance; the flavors will deepen overnight.
4. Is there a substitute for pearl onions? You can use chopped shallots or regular onions if needed.
5. Can I freeze this dish? Yes, Beef Bourguignon freezes well. Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
6. How do I thicken the sauce if it’s too thin? Simmer the stew uncovered for a bit longer or mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and add it to the pot.
7. What can I serve with Beef Bourguignon? It pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, crusty bread, or egg noodles.
8. How do I know when the beef is tender? The beef should easily shred with a fork when properly cooked.
9. Can I use red wine vinegar instead of red wine? Red wine vinegar is too acidic; stick with a good-quality red wine for the best results.
10. What’s the best way to reheat the stew? Reheat it slowly on the stove over low heat to prevent the meat from toughening.

Conclusion

Classic Beef Bourguignon is a delightful dish that brings the warmth of French home cooking to your table. With its rich flavors and tender meat, it’s perfect for sharing with family and friends. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just a comforting family dinner, this classic recipe is sure to impress! Enjoy the delightful blend of flavors and aromas that will fill your kitchen.

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