Welcome, dear friends! I’m so thrilled to share my recipe for beef bourguignon with you today. This classic French stew has a way of wrapping you in warmth and comfort, just like a cozy hug on a chilly evening. I remember the first time I tried making it; the aroma of red wine and tender beef simmering in the kitchen was simply irresistible! It took me back to family gatherings where we’d huddle around the dinner table, savoring every bite and sharing stories. The beauty of beef bourguignon is not just in its rich flavors but also in the love and care poured into it. Trust me, once you experience the magic of this dish, it’ll become a cherished part of your own kitchen adventures!

Ingredients List

• 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 2-inch pieces (Look for well-marbled meat for the best flavor!)
• 4 slices of bacon, diced (This adds a wonderful smokiness to the stew.)
• 1 onion, chopped (A medium-sized onion works perfectly here.)
• 2 carrots, sliced (Feel free to cut them into rounds or half-moons—whatever you prefer!)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced (Don’t skimp on the garlic; it adds depth to the flavor.)
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste (This helps to enrich the stew’s flavor.)
• 1 bottle (750 ml) red wine (A good quality wine makes a difference—choose one you enjoy drinking!)
• 2 cups beef broth (Low-sodium is a great choice for controlling the saltiness.)
• 1 bouquet garni (a bundle of thyme, bay leaf, and parsley, tied together for easy removal later)
• 8 ounces mushrooms, quartered (I love using cremini or button mushrooms for their earthy flavor.)
• 2 tablespoons flour (Use cornstarch for a gluten-free option—just be sure to mix it with a bit of water first.)
• Salt and pepper to taste (Always season throughout the cooking process for the best flavor.)

How to Prepare Beef Bourguignon

Now, let’s dive into the delightful process of making beef bourguignon! I promise, it’s easier than it sounds, and each step brings you closer to a heartwarming meal. So, grab your ingredients and let’s get cooking!

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is important because we want to create that cozy, slow-cooked flavor.
2. Cook the bacon: In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, place your diced bacon over medium heat. Cook it until it’s nice and crispy, about 5–7 minutes. Remove the bacon and set it aside on a paper towel to drain.
3. Brown the beef: In the same pot, add your beef chuck pieces. It’s important to brown them on all sides, which should take about 8–10 minutes. This step adds so much flavor to your stew! Once browned, remove the beef and set it aside with the bacon.
4. Sauté the vegetables: Add the chopped onion and sliced carrots to the pot. Cook them until they’re softened, about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring frequently.
5. Add the tomato paste: Stir in the tomato paste, letting it cook for about 2 minutes. This helps to deepen the flavors.
6. Pour in the liquids: Now it’s time to add the red wine and beef broth to the pot. Make sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom—those bits are packed with flavor!
7. Combine everything: Return the browned beef and crispy bacon to the pot. Toss in your bouquet garni, which will infuse the stew with lovely herbal notes. Give everything a good stir.
8. Bake it: Cover the pot with a lid and place it in your preheated oven. Bake for 2 to 3 hours, or until the beef is tender and falling apart. The longer, the better!
9. Sauté the mushrooms: About 30 minutes before the stew is done, heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sauté your quartered mushrooms until golden brown—this will take about 5 minutes. Add them to the stew.
10. Thicken the sauce: If you like a thicker sauce, mix the flour with a bit of water to create a slurry and stir it into the stew. Let it cook for another 10 minutes to thicken up.
11. Season: Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste. Remember, a little seasoning goes a long way!

And there you have it! You’ve just created a classic beef bourguignon that’ll fill your home with the most inviting aroma. Enjoy it with crusty bread or over creamy mashed potatoes for a truly comforting meal!

Why You’ll Love Beef Bourguignon

• Comforting Flavor: The rich, deep flavors of beef bourguignon warm your heart and soul, making it the perfect dish for chilly evenings.
• Easy Preparation: Once you gather your ingredients and follow the steps, it practically cooks itself in the oven while you relax!
• Perfect for Gatherings: This dish is ideal for family gatherings or dinner parties; it serves a crowd and is sure to impress your guests.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare it a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully overnight.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or adjust the seasonings to suit your taste.
• Leftovers Galore: If you happen to have any leftovers, they taste even better the next day!

Tips for Success

To make sure your beef bourguignon turns out absolutely perfect, here are some handy tips from my own kitchen adventures! First, when browning the meat, do it in batches if your pot is small. This helps achieve that lovely caramelization without steaming the beef. Trust me, the flavor is all in that browning!

Next, don’t rush the seasoning. Layer your salt and pepper throughout the cooking process to build depth in flavor. Also, remember that the key to a tender beef stew is the low and slow cooking method. Let it bake gently in the oven for those 2 to 3 hours—this is where the magic happens! Finally, if you have time, let the stew rest for a bit after cooking. It allows the flavors to meld even more, making each bite even more delicious!

Nutritional Information

Before we dig into how wonderful this beef bourguignon is, I want to remind you that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you choose. So, while I can’t provide exact numbers, here’s a general idea of what you can expect per serving:

• Calories: 450
• Fat: 20g
• Protein: 40g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fiber: 4g

These values will help you understand the dish better, but don’t forget to enjoy the meal and the company around your table! Cooking is about nourishment, so focus on the love and joy it brings to your heart and home.

FAQ Section

Common Questions About Beef Bourguignon

Can I use a different cut of beef? Absolutely! While beef chuck is my go-to for its tenderness, you can also use brisket or round if you prefer. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly based on the cut.

What if I don’t have red wine? No worries! You can substitute with beef broth for a non-alcoholic version, though the flavor will be less robust. You might miss that lovely depth that the wine provides, but it will still be delicious!

How should I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just remember to let it cool completely before sealing. It tastes even better the next day!

Can I freeze beef bourguignon? Yes, you can! It freezes wonderfully. Just make sure to let it cool, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It should last for about 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

How do I reheat it without losing flavor? The best way to reheat your beef bourguignon is on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. If it seems a bit thick, add a splash of beef broth or water to loosen it up. Enjoy the wonderful aroma as it warms up!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

After enjoying your delicious beef bourguignon, you might have some leftovers (if you’re lucky!). To store, simply let the stew cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to enjoy it later, you can freeze it too! Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container, and it should last for about 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge.

For reheating, I recommend warming it gently on the stove over low heat. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to ensure it heats evenly. If it feels too thick, just add a splash of beef broth or water to loosen it up. Trust me, the aroma will bring back all the cozy memories of that wonderful meal!

Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe: A Heartwarming Delight

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• Author: Julia marin
• Total Time: 3 hours 30 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

A classic French stew made with beef, red wine, and vegetables, perfect for a comforting meal.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 2-inch pieces
• 4 slices of bacon, diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 bottle (750 ml) red wine
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 bouquet garni (thyme, bay leaf, parsley)
• 8 ounces mushrooms, quartered
• 2 tablespoons flour
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside.
3. Add the beef to the pot and brown on all sides.
4. Remove the beef and set aside. Add onion and carrots to the pot and cook until softened.
5. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
6. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes.
7. Add the wine and beef broth, then return the beef and bacon to the pot.
8. Add the bouquet garni, cover, and transfer to the oven.
9. Bake for 2 to 3 hours, until the beef is tender.
10. In the last 30 minutes, sauté the mushrooms in a skillet and add them to the stew.
11. Thicken the sauce with flour if desired.
12. Season with salt and pepper before serving.

Notes

• For a gluten-free option, use cornstarch instead of flour.
• Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version with mushrooms or lentils.
• Substitute any root vegetables you enjoy.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 3 hours
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Braising
• Cuisine: French

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 40g
• Cholesterol: 120mg

Keywords: beef bourguignon, French stew, comfort food