Search for:



Beef Bourguignon

Discover the rich and savory flavors of traditional heartwarming French stew: Beef Bourguignon. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners–combines tender beef, red wine, and aromatic vegetables.

(Serves 6 –1.5 to 2 cups each)

Ingredients:
2 lbs beef chuck (cut into 2-inch cubes; pork shoulder or chicken thighs can also be used)
Salt and pepper, to taste
3 tbsp olive oil
1 large yellow onion, chopped
3 large carrots, peeled and sliced
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups red wine (Burgundy is traditional, but a good Pinot Noir works well)
2 cups beef broth
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 bay leaf
4 sprigs fresh thyme (or 1 tsp dried thyme)
1 cup mushrooms (optional, sliced or left whole for a meatier bite)
1 cup pearl onions (optional, peeled)
2 tbsp unsalted butter (optional for extra richness)
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

Prepare the Beef:
Pat the beef cubes dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper.
Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
In batches, brown the beef on all sides (about 4-5 minutes per batch). Transfer to a plate.

Sauté Vegetables:
In the same pot, add 1 tbsp olive oil if needed. Sauté the onions and carrots for 5-6 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Combine and Coat:
Return the browned beef to the pot. Sprinkle with flour and stir well to coat everything.

Deglaze and Simmer:
Slowly pour in the red wine while scraping up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pot.
Add the beef broth, tomato paste, bay leaf, and thyme. Stir to combine.

Slow Cook:
Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low.
Cover and let it cook for 2.5 to 3 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beef is very tender.

Add Optional Ingredients:
If using, sauté mushrooms or pearl onions in butter until browned, then add them to the stew during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Finishing Touches:
Once the beef is tender, taste and adjust seasonings. Remove the thyme sprigs and bay leaf. Garnish with fresh parsley.

Serving Suggestions:
With Crusty Bread: Serve with slices of fresh baguette to soak up the sauce.
Over Mashed Potatoes: Spoon the stew over creamy mashed potatoes.
Rice Option: Serve it over steamed white rice or buttered egg noodles.
Wine Pairing:
Enjoy with the same red wine used in cooking, like a Pinot Noir, Burgundy, or a full-bodied Merlot.

Troubleshooting Tips:
Too Thin? Remove the lid for the last 30 minutes of cooking to reduce, or mix 1 tbsp cornstarch with 1 tbsp water and stir it in.
Too Thick? Add more beef broth or wine to loosen.
Meat Not Tender? Let it cook longer for the best texture.

Substitutions:
Meat Options: Try pork shoulder, chicken thighs, or tofu for a vegetarian twist.
Wine Substitute: Use extra beef broth and add 1 tbsp of balsamic vinegar or grape juice for sweetness and acidity.

Table Service:
Setting the Table: Use a neutral tablecloth with a dark runner. Serve in shallow bowls or rimmed plates to hold the sauce.
Flatware: Include a knife, fork, and a spoon for the sauce.
Glassware: Wine glasses should be at each setting, alongside a water glass.
Serving the Dish: Present the Beef Bourguignon family-style in the pot or pre-portion servings with a sprinkle of parsley.

Complementary Foods:
Sides: Crusty bread, mashed potatoes, buttered egg noodles, steamed rice, roasted vegetables, and green beans almondine.
Salads: A simple green salad with vinaigrette or an endive and walnut salad adds freshness.
Cheese Course: Serve a selection of French cheeses with fruit and crackers.

Complementary Beverages:
Wine: Red wines like Burgundy, Pinot Noir, or Côtes du Rhône.
Non-Alcoholic: Sparkling water cleanses the palate.

Meal Culture & Philosophy:
Beef Bourguignon embodies a French culinary philosophy that values slow cooking, simple ingredients, and shared meals. This dish reflects a respect for time as an ingredient and an appreciation for communal dining, inviting connection and conversation around the table.

Brief History:
Once humble peasant food, Beef Bourguignon has become a classic of French cuisine, celebrated for its rich flavors and comforting qualities. Originating in Burgundy, it represents a culinary tradition that elevates simple ingredients through careful technique and slow cooking.

Culinary Notes:
Beef Bourguignon originated in Burgundy, France, and was once considered peasant food, utilizing tough cuts of beef that become tender through slow cooking. Today, it symbolizes comfort and tradition, perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in with friends.

#BeefBourguignon #FrenchCuisine #ComfortFood #SlowCooked #HomeCooking #Foodie #RecipeOfTheDay #CulinaryAdventure #WineAndDine #CozyMeals #HeartyStew #GourmetCooking #FoodLovers #FrenchRecipe #DinnerParty #ClassicDishes #CookingWithWine #SavoryEats #DeliciousMeals #FromScratchCooking #FoodCulture #CookingAtHome #ChefMode

1 Comment

Write A Comment