Beef Bourguignon Recipe

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Beef Bourguignon Recipe

Beef Bourguignon, also known as Boeuf Bourguignon, is a classic French dish that combines tender beef, vegetables, and a rich red wine sauce, creating a deeply flavorful and comforting meal. This dish is perfect for special occasions or when you’re craving a hearty, luxurious stew.

Ingredients:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional) – For browning the beef and bacon.
  • 8 slices thick-cut bacon (chopped) – Adds richness and flavor to the dish.
  • 3 pounds stewing beef (lean, cut into 1-inch pieces) – The main protein, which becomes tender and flavorful as it simmers.
  • 1 large onion (chopped) – Adds sweetness and depth to the stew.
  • 1 large carrot (peeled and roughly chopped) – Provides a natural sweetness and texture.
  • 1 pound pearl onions (peeled) – Adds a delicate, slightly sweet flavor.
  • ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste) – For seasoning the beef and vegetables.
  • ½ teaspoon ground pepper (or to taste) – For seasoning the stew.
  • 4 cloves garlic (minced) – Adds aromatic depth.
  • 1 pound mushrooms (chopped) – Adds earthy flavor and texture.
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour – Helps thicken the sauce.
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste – Adds richness and depth to the sauce.
  • 1 bay leaf – Adds a subtle herbal note.
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme (chopped) – Adds an aromatic, earthy flavor.
  • 2 cups beef broth (low sodium or no sodium added) – Forms the base of the stew.
  • 3 cups red wine – A key ingredient for the rich, flavorful sauce (a Burgundy or Pinot Noir is recommended).

Instructions:

1. Cook the Bacon:

  • In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, heat the olive oil (if using) over medium heat.
  • Add the chopped bacon and cook until it becomes crispy and browned. Remove the bacon and set it aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.

2. Brown the Beef:

  • Add the stewing beef in batches to the pot, making sure not to overcrowd the meat. Brown the beef on all sides, then remove and set it aside with the bacon.

3. Sauté the Vegetables:

  • In the same pot, add the onion, carrot, and pearl onions. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables begin to soften.
  • Add the garlic and mushrooms and sauté for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms have released their moisture.

4. Make the Sauce:

  • Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir to coat. Cook for 2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
  • Stir in the tomato paste, cooking for another minute.
  • Gradually add the beef broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Then add the red wine, bay leaf, and thyme. Stir to combine.

5. Simmer the Stew:

  • Return the browned beef and bacon to the pot. Stir everything together, ensuring the meat is mostly covered by the liquid.
  • Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the stew simmer for about 2-3 hours, or until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded together. Stir occasionally and check if more liquid is needed (add more broth or wine if necessary).

6. Final Seasoning:

  • After simmering, taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Remove the bay leaf before serving.

7. Serve:

  • Serve the Beef Bourguignon hot, either by itself or with a side of mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Tips for the Best Beef Bourguignon:

  • Wine Choice: The quality of the wine can impact the flavor of the dish. Choose a wine that you enjoy drinking, preferably a dry red wine like Pinot Noir, Merlot, or Burgundy.
  • Slow Cooking: For even better flavor, this dish can be made a day ahead. The flavors deepen as it sits, and it can be reheated gently before serving.
  • Tender Meat: Stewing beef benefits from slow cooking. If you’re using a tougher cut, allow the stew to simmer for even longer to ensure the meat is tender.
  • Optional Garnish: You can garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color and freshness.

Conclusion:

Beef Bourguignon is a deeply satisfying dish that combines tender beef, vegetables, and a rich, savory wine sauce. Perfect for a special dinner or a cozy family meal, this classic French stew is sure to impress with its depth of flavor and comforting richness. Enjoy the process of making it, and delight in the delicious results!

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