Name: Classic Beef Bourguignon
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 2 h 30 min
Total time: 3 h
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes; 4 slices bacon, diced; 1 cup pearl onions, peeled; 8 oz cremini mushrooms, sliced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups red wine (Burgundy or Pinot Noir); 2 cups low-sodium beef broth; 2 tbsp tomato paste; 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves; 2 bay leaves; Salt and pepper to taste

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Classic Beef Bourguignon is like a warm hug from your grandmother, if your grandmother were French and a culinary genius. Imagine tender chunks of beef lovingly simmered in a rich red wine sauce, accompanied by earthy mushrooms and sweet pearl onions. cozy lentil soup The aroma fills your kitchen, making you feel like you’ve been transported straight to a cozy Parisian bistro, where the only decision you need to make is whether to indulge in another glass of Bordeaux.

This dish isn’t just comfort food; it’s an experience! Whether you’re hosting a fancy dinner party or simply trying to impress yourself on a Tuesday night, Classic Beef Bourguignon sets the stage for culinary magic. With every bite, you’ll be enveloped in layers of flavor that dance on your palate, making you wonder why you ever settled for takeout.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

The ease of preparation allows even novice cooks to shine like culinary stars.
The flavor profile is so rich and satisfying that it will leave everyone begging for seconds.
Visually appealing with its vibrant colors and textures, it’s perfect for impressing guests at any gathering.
Versatile enough for both special occasions and cozy family dinners, it fits seamlessly into any meal plan.

Ingredients for Classic Beef Bourguignon

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Beef Chuck Roast: Choose a well-marbled cut for maximum tenderness after slow cooking. For more inspiration, check out this Slow Cooker Pot Roast recipe.
Red Wine: A good quality Burgundy or Pinot Noir enhances the dish’s depth of flavor.
Beef Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control salt levels while adding richness.
Mushrooms: Fresh cremini or button mushrooms provide an earthy flavor that complements the beef.
Pearl Onions: These little gems add sweetness and texture to the dish.
Bacon: Adds smokiness and richness; don’t skip this step unless you have strong feelings against pork!
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves elevate the savory notes in this dish.
Tomato Paste: A touch of tomato paste adds depth and complexity to the sauce.
Thyme and Bay Leaves: Fresh herbs work wonders in infusing aromatic flavors during cooking.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Classic Beef Bourguignon

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Sear the Beef

Start by cutting your beef chuck roast into bite-sized cubes. Heat a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat and add diced bacon until crispy. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon, leaving drippings behind. Sear beef cubes in batches until browned on all sides. Set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

In the same pot, add chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant about two minutes and then toss in sliced mushrooms. Cook until mushrooms are golden brown.

Step 3: Simmer with Wine

Return the beef (and bacon) to the pot. Stir in tomato paste, thyme, bay leaves, and pour in red wine along with beef broth until meat is submerged. Bring it all to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Cook Low and Slow

Cover the pot and transfer it to a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C). Let it cook for about two-and-a-half hours or until beef is fork-tender and sauce has thickened beautifully.

Step 5: Final Touches

Remove from oven and discard bay leaves before stirring in pearl onions. Taste test; adjust seasoning as needed with salt and pepper.

Step 6: Serve with Style

Transfer to plates or serve directly from the pot for rustic charm! Pair with crusty bread or creamy mashed potatoes for ultimate satisfaction. For more inspiration, check out this Creamy Scalloped Potatoes recipe.

With each spoonful of Classic Beef Bourguignon, you’ll relish those rich flavors while basking in your culinary triumphs! Enjoy this classic French dish with friends or family and don’t forget that extra glass of wine!

You Must Know

This classic beef bourguignon recipe is more than just a meal; it’s an experience.
Infused with rich flavors and tender meat, it brings a warm hug to your dinner table.
Perfect for cozy evenings or impressing guests with your culinary skills!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by searing the beef in batches to get that beautiful crust. While the meat rests, sauté your veggies and garlic. After that, combine everything in the pot, add wine, and let it simmer until perfection.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap the beef for lamb or add mushrooms for an earthy twist. Experiment with herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra depth of flavor. You can even toss in some pearl onions if you’re feeling fancy!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover beef bourguignon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it slowly on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of wine or broth if necessary.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For a more robust flavor, let your beef marinate overnight in red wine.
Use high-quality wine, as it greatly impacts the dish’s taste.
Always taste as you go to adjust seasonings for perfection.

Sometimes I whip up this classic beef bourguignon when I’m feeling nostalgic about family gatherings. It never fails to evoke smiles and compliments from friends who can’t believe I made it!

FAQs:

What is Classic Beef Bourguignon?

Classic Beef Bourguignon is a traditional French stew made primarily with beef braised in red wine, typically from the Burgundy region. This dish features tender chunks of meat simmered with aromatic vegetables, such as carrots, onions, and garlic. It is often enriched with herbs like thyme and bay leaves, creating a rich and flavorful sauce. The slow cooking process allows the beef to absorb the wine’s flavors while becoming incredibly tender. This hearty dish is perfect for special occasions or cozy family dinners.

How long does it take to prepare Classic Beef Bourguignon?

Preparing Classic Beef Bourguignon takes time, but the results are worth it. The active preparation time is about 30 minutes, including browning the beef and sautéing vegetables. However, the dish requires slow cooking for approximately 2 to 3 hours to ensure that the beef becomes tender and flavorful. You can also prepare it a day in advance; letting it sit overnight enhances the flavor even more. Simply reheat before serving for a comforting meal.

What wine should I use for Classic Beef Bourguignon?

When making Classic Beef Bourguignon, choose a good quality red wine that you would enjoy drinking. Burgundy wine is traditional, but other Pinot Noir varieties can work well too. It’s essential to select a wine that has rich flavors and good acidity to complement the beef and enhance the overall taste of the dish. Avoid using cooking wines; they may contain additives that can alter the flavor profile of your bourguignon.

Can I make Classic Beef Bourguignon in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can definitely make Classic Beef Bourguignon in a slow cooker! After browning the beef and sautéing the vegetables on the stovetop, transfer everything to your slow cooker along with the wine and broth. dairy-free Thai chickpea wraps Set it on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours until the beef is fork-tender. This method allows for even cooking and deep flavors while freeing you up for other tasks during cooking.

Conclusion for Classic Beef Bourguignon:

Classic Beef Bourguignon is a delightful French dish that showcases rich flavors through slow cooking techniques. The combination of tender beef, aromatic vegetables, and robust red wine creates a comforting meal perfect for any occasion. With careful preparation and quality ingredients, this recipe can become a family favorite. Salisbury steak with rich gravy Don’t forget that letting it sit overnight enhances its flavor even further! Enjoy this culinary classic with crusty bread or creamy mashed potatoes for an unforgettable dining experience.