Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that warms the heart and fills the home with delightful aromas, then this Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe is just what you need! This recipe brings together tender beef and vibrant vegetables in a rich apple vinegar sauce that’s simply irresistible. It’s perfect for special occasions like family gatherings, but it’s also easy enough to whip up on a busy weeknight when you want to impress your loved ones without too much fuss.

What makes this dish extra special is how it transforms simple ingredients into a comforting meal that everyone will love. Imagine serving this hearty stew with some crusty bread or over creamy mashed potatoes—it’s pure comfort food at its best!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and satisfying: This meal is packed with flavors and textures that will leave everyone feeling full and happy.
• Easy preparation: With straightforward steps, making this beef bourguignon feels more like an enjoyable activity than a chore!
• Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a holiday feast or a cozy dinner at home, this dish fits right in.
• Family-friendly appeal: Everyone from kids to adults will enjoy digging into this delicious stew.
• Make-ahead friendly: You can prepare it ahead of time, letting the flavors deepen while you relax.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to make this delightful beef bourguignon. You might already have some of these in your kitchen! Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Stew

• 5 strips bacon, cut into 1 pieces
• 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 apple vinegar, or other bold apple vinegar
• 2 cups beef stock
• 1 tablespoon Better than Bouillon beef bouillon
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme
• 2 bay leaves, dried or fresh
• 10 oz frozen pearl onions, defrosted and drained
• 16 oz cremini mushrooms, quartered
• kosher salt
• freshly cracked pepper

Variations

This classic dish is quite flexible! Feel free to get creative with your ingredients. Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Swap the protein: Try using lamb or chicken for a different twist on traditional flavors.
• Add more veggies: Feel free to toss in potatoes, parsnips, or even green beans for added nutrition and color.
• Make it lighter: Use leaner cuts of meat or substitute half of the beef with mushrooms for a vegetarian option.
• Change up the seasoning: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or oregano to give it your unique touch.

How to Make Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350 F. This ensures that when you’re ready to bake your delicious stew, it’s hot enough to cook everything evenly.

Step 2: Render the Bacon

In your trusty Dutch oven, add the chopped bacon over medium-low heat. Stir occasionally until it’s browned and has released its lovely fat. This step adds wonderful flavor to our base. Remove the bacon using a slotted spoon and set it aside in a small bowl.

Step 3: Sear the Beef

Now it’s time for the beef! Season those lovely cubes with salt and pepper before increasing the heat to medium-high. Sear the beef on all sides until beautifully browned—this caramelization is key for deep flavor. If your pot isn’t big enough, don’t hesitate to do it in batches!

Step 4: Sauté the Veggies

Lower the heat back down to medium and add two tablespoons of butter. Toss in those chopped onions and carrots, sautéing them for about 2-3 minutes while stirring often. When they start softening, add minced garlic and cook for another minute. Then comes tomato paste—cook it until darkened (about 2-3 minutes). Finally, sprinkle flour over everything and stir well; this helps thicken our sauce later.

Step 5: Add Apple Vinegar, Stock, and Herbs

Pour in that bold apple vinegar next! Use your silicone spoon to scrape up any flavorful bits stuck at the bottom of your pot. Add in beef stock along with bouillon; let everything come to a simmer. Now return both the seared beef and crispy bacon back into the pot along with thyme and bay leaves. Cover it up before transferring to the oven—let it cook for about 2 ½ hours!

Step 6: Add Mushrooms and Pearl Onions

When you’re nearing that cooking time mark, melt remaining butter over medium-high heat in a skillet. Once bubbling away, add quartered mushrooms until they’re nicely browned. Toss in pearl onions too—cook them for about five more minutes till golden! Sprinkle with salt and pepper before adding them into your pot.

Step 7: Final Touches

Carefully remove your bourguignon from the oven after those hours of slow cooking magic! Gently fold in those beautiful mushrooms and onions before returning everything back to bake until super tender (another 45-60 minutes). Afterward, let it sit covered for about thirty minutes before serving—this helps all those flavors meld together perfectly.

And there you have it! A classic beef bourguignon recipe that promises warmth on cold nights—perfect for gathering around the table with friends or family! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe

Creating a stunning beef bourguignon is all about attention to detail and patience, so here are some pro tips to elevate your dish!

• Choose Quality Meat: Opt for high-quality beef chuck that has good marbling. This ensures your dish will be rich and tender after slow cooking.
• Don’t Rush the Browning: Take your time when searing the beef and bacon. Proper caramelization develops deep flavors that will enhance the overall taste of the dish.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh thyme and bay leaves can significantly improve flavor depth compared to dried herbs. They add brightness to the rich sauce.
• Let It Rest: Allowing your stew to sit covered for 30 minutes after it’s done cooking lets the flavors meld together beautifully, making each bite more delicious.
• Experiment with Vinegars: While Burgundy apple vinegar brings a robust flavor, feel free to experiment with different varieties of apple vinegar for a unique twist on this classic dish.

How to Serve Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe

Serving your beef bourguignon can be just as delightful as preparing it! With its rich flavors and beautiful presentation, you’ll want to make sure it shines on your table.

Garnishes

• Fresh Parsley: Finely chop some fresh parsley and sprinkle it over the dish just before serving. The vibrant green adds color and freshness, balancing the richness of the stew.
• Chopped Chives: A sprinkle of chives adds a subtle onion flavor that complements the dish perfectly while enhancing its visual appeal.

Side Dishes

• Crusty Bread: Serve with a warm, crusty baguette or sourdough bread. It’s perfect for soaking up that delicious sauce!
• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide a comforting base for the hearty stew, making each bite indulgent and satisfying.
• Steamed Green Beans: Lightly steamed green beans add a fresh crunch that contrasts nicely with the tender meat. Their bright color also adds vibrancy to your plate.
• Roasted Root Vegetables: Toss carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes in olive oil and roast until caramelized. These veggies bring sweetness that complements the savory elements of beef bourguignon.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re sure to impress everyone at your table with this classic French comfort dish! Enjoy every delicious moment.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe is not only a comfort food favorite, but it also makes for excellent meal prep! You can easily prepare this dish ahead of time, allowing the flavors to deepen and making weeknight dinners a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the beef bourguignon to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer it into an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, let the dish cool completely.
• Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through, adding a splash of beef stock if needed.
• Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe:

Can I make this Classic Beef Bourguignon recipe without bacon?

Absolutely! You can skip the bacon entirely or substitute it with a plant-based alternative for added flavor without using pork.

What is the best type of vinegar for Classic Beef Bourguignon?

Using a bold apple vinegar like Burgundy apple vinegar brings depth to the dish. It’s essential for achieving that rich flavor profile characteristic of beef bourguignon.

How long does Classic Beef Bourguignon last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, this delicious dish will last up to 3 days in your refrigerator.

Can I use other cuts of beef for this recipe?

While chuck roast is ideal due to its tenderness when slow-cooked, you could use brisket or round as alternatives. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe as much as I do! There’s something so special about preparing a dish that fills your home with warmth and delicious aromas. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, I’m certain it’ll bring joy to your table. Happy cooking!