Beef Bourguignon (Beef Burgundy)

If you’re looking for a dish that warms both the heart and the home, then look no further than Beef Bourguignon (Beef Burgundy). This classic French stew is a comforting embrace on a chilly evening, perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners. The magic happens when tender chunks of beef slowly simmer in a rich sauce, creating an aroma that will have everyone asking what’s for dinner long before it’s served.

What makes this recipe truly special is not just the depth of flavor but also the love and time put into it. Preparing Beef Bourguignon is a labor of love that’s absolutely worth it. By starting the process two days in advance, you allow the flavors to develop beautifully, ensuring each bite is packed with deliciousness!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredible flavor: The slow cooking melds all the ingredients together, creating a deeply satisfying taste experience.
• Perfect for meal prep: Make it ahead of time and simply reheat when you’re ready to serve—ideal for busy weeknights!
• Family favorite: Even picky eaters will enjoy this hearty stew filled with tender beef and flavorful veggies.
• Impressive occasion dish: Serve this at your next gathering, and watch your guests rave about your culinary skills!
• Simple ingredients: You likely already have many of these wholesome ingredients in your pantry!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating Beef Bourguignon (Beef Burgundy) requires just a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients that come together in perfect harmony. Here’s what you’ll need to get started:

For the Stew

• 800g/1.6 lb chuck beef, cut into 4-5 cm / 2” cubes
• 2 large carrots, (~300g/10oz), cut on an angle into 4-5 cm / 2” pieces
• 16 pearl onions or small pickling onions
• 1 bay leaf, fresh (sub: dried)
• 3 sprigs thyme
• 750ml/25 oz apple vinegar
• 3 tbsp oil, olive, canola or vegetable
• 3/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp pepper
• 200g/7oz mushrooms, halved (quarters if large)
• 50g/3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 6 tbsp flour, plain/all-purpose
• 3 cups beef stock, low sodium
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 2 tbsp chopped parsley, for garnish

Variations

One of the best parts about Beef Bourguignon (Beef Burgundy) is how flexible it can be! Here are some fun ideas to mix things up:

• Swap the protein: Try using chicken thighs instead of beef for a lighter twist on this classic dish.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some diced potatoes or parsnips for added texture and flavor.
• Go gluten-free: Use cornstarch instead of flour to thicken without gluten.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for an extra kick of warmth.

How to Make Beef Bourguignon (Beef Burgundy)

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

First things first—let’s get everything prepped! Cut your chuck beef into even cubes so they cook uniformly. This ensures every piece is tender and delicious. Don’t forget to prep your veggies; slice those carrots and peel those pearl onions. Having everything ready makes cooking smoother and more enjoyable.

Step 2: Sear the Meat

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat your oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the beef in batches without overcrowding. Searing the meat creates a lovely crust that locks in flavors—a crucial step that elevates this stew from good to extraordinary! Set aside once browned.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pot, add your pearl onions and cook until they start to caramelize—about 5 minutes. Then toss in those beautiful mushrooms and let them soften too. Adding these aromatics builds layers of flavor right at the start!

Step 4: Build Your Stew Base

Next, stir in minced garlic and tomato paste, allowing them to cook briefly until fragrant. Sprinkle flour over everything to help thicken later, stirring well. Gradually pour in your apple vinegar while scraping up any flavorful brown bits from the bottom—this step is key for maximizing taste!

Step 5: Slow Cook Everything Together

Return your seared beef back into the pot along with carrots, thyme, bay leaf, salt, pepper, and beef stock. Bring everything to a gentle simmer before covering and reducing heat to low. Let it cook for about two hours—this slow-cooking magic transforms ordinary ingredients into something truly special.

Step 6: Final Touches

Once cooked through and tender, taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Remove bay leaf and thyme stems before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley just before diving in—you deserve every bit of this delightful dish!

Enjoy making this Beef Bourguignon (Beef Burgundy) at home! It’s bound to become one of your go-to recipes for gatherings or quiet nights in with loved ones.

Pro Tips for Making Beef Bourguignon (Beef Burgundy)

Creating the perfect Beef Bourguignon is a labor of love, and with these tips, you’ll ensure your stew is nothing short of spectacular!

• Use Quality Ingredients: The flavor of your dish relies heavily on the quality of your beef and vegetables. Opt for fresh, high-quality chuck beef and seasonal vegetables to enhance the overall taste.

• Let it Marinate: If time allows, marinate the beef in apple vinegar overnight. This will tenderize the meat and infuse it with depth and flavor, making each bite unforgettable.

• Sear in Batches: Don’t overcrowd your pan when searing the beef or bacon. This ensures a proper caramelization, which adds a rich layer of flavor to your stew.

• Thicken Gradually: After adding flour to the pot, make sure to cook it for a couple of minutes before adding liquids. This will prevent any raw flour taste in your finished dish while helping create a velvety texture.

• Rest Before Serving: Allowing the stew to rest for at least an hour before serving lets the flavors meld beautifully together, enhancing the overall taste experience.

How to Serve Beef Bourguignon (Beef Burgundy)

Presentation is key when serving this classic French dish. A rustic yet elegant display can make all the difference at your dinner table!

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of vibrant green parsley not only adds color but also a fresh herbal note that complements the rich flavors.
• Crusty Bread: Serve with slices of freshly baked baguette or rustic bread for soaking up that delicious sauce—it’s simply irresistible!
• Creamy Mashed Potatoes: A dollop of creamy mashed potatoes on top creates a comforting contrast to the robust stew underneath.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables such as carrots, parsnips, or Brussels sprouts provide a hearty side that complements the richness of the stew.
• Green Salad: A light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances out the heaviness of Beef Bourguignon, refreshing your palate.
• Herb Butter Noodles: Simple buttered egg noodles tossed with fresh herbs make an excellent base for serving your stew.
• Steamed Green Beans: Bright green beans lightly steamed add color and crunch to your plate while enhancing the meal’s nutritional value.

With these tips and serving suggestions in mind, you’re all set to impress family and friends with your delightful Beef Bourguignon. Enjoy every moment spent around the table!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Beef Bourguignon recipe is perfect for meal prep! The flavors deepen over time, making it an ideal dish to prepare in advance. Here’s how you can store and enjoy your delicious stew even longer.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will keep well for up to 3 days.
• For best taste, let it cool completely before sealing the container.

Freezing

• Allow the stew to cool before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
• Beef Bourguignon can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Label the container with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• You can also use a microwave, heating in short increments and stirring between each session.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe!

Can I make Beef Bourguignon ahead of time?

Absolutely! This dish tastes even better after a day or two as the flavors meld beautifully.

What is the best wine for Beef Bourguignon?

While traditionally red wine is used, you can substitute it with apple vinegar which enhances the rich flavors without using alcohol.

How long does Beef Bourguignon last in the fridge?

It lasts up to 3 days in the fridge when stored properly in an airtight container.

Can I use a different type of meat for Beef Bourguignon?

Yes! While beef is traditional, you could experiment with alternatives like chicken or even plant-based proteins for a unique twist.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this comforting Beef Bourguignon as much as I do! With its rich flavors and tender meat, it’s sure to warm your heart and satisfy your cravings. Don’t hesitate to invite friends or family over; this dish is perfect for sharing! Happy cooking, and remember—every great meal starts with love!