Classic Beef Bourguignon

As far as French cuisine goes, this Classic Beef Bourguignon is a must-make! Tender beef swimming in a rich wine sauce makes it perfect for the holidays or any special occasion. The deep flavors and aromatic ingredients create a dish that’s not only comforting but also impressive when served to guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The combination of beef chuck, red wine, and herbs creates an irresistible depth of flavor.
• Tender Meat: Slow-cooking ensures the beef becomes incredibly tender and flavorful.
• Perfect for Special Occasions: Impress your guests with this classic French dish that feels both elegant and homey.
• One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required since everything cooks in one pot, making it convenient for busy cooks.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it with crusty bread, over mashed potatoes, or alongside roasted vegetables.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make preparing Classic Beef Bourguignon easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you need to get started.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven: This heavy pot retains heat well, ensuring even cooking and perfect braising for your beef.
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula: Ideal for scraping up browned bits from the bottom of the pot, adding flavor to your dish.
• Sharp knife: A good knife makes chopping onions and vegetables quick and easy, saving you time in preparation.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 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 wine, or other bold red wine
– 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

How to Make Classic Beef Bourguignon

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 F.

Step 2: Render the Bacon

Add the chopped bacon to your 5 qt Dutch oven. Turn the heat to medium-low. Cook the bacon while stirring occasionally until it’s browned and has released some fat. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon from the pan and transfer it to a small bowl.

Step 3: Sear the Beef

Season the cubes of beef all over with kosher salt and freshly cracked pepper. Increase the heat on the Dutch oven to medium-high. Sear the beef on all sides until browned, which may require doing this in batches. Remove the beef from the pan.

Step 4: Sauté the Veggies

Decrease the heat to medium. Add 2 tablespoons of butter to the pot along with chopped onions and carrots. Sauté for about 2–3 minutes while stirring often. Next, add minced garlic and cook for another minute. Stir in tomato paste and cook for an additional 2–3 minutes until it darkens in color. Finally, sprinkle flour over this mixture, stirring well to combine, cooking for another few minutes.

Step 5: Add Wine, Stock, and Herbs

Pour Burgundy wine into the pot while using a silicone spatula to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom. Add in beef broth and bouillon; bring this mixture to a simmer. Return both beef and bacon back into the pot along with thyme sprigs and bay leaves. Cover and transfer to your preheated oven. Cook for about 2½ hours.

Step 6: Add Mushrooms and Pearl Onions

Around the two-and-a-half-hour mark, melt remaining butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add quartered mushrooms, cooking until browned. Then add pearl onions, cooking them for another five minutes until they are also browned. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 7: Final Cooking Steps

Remove Classic Beef Bourguignon from the oven after its time is up; add mushrooms and pearl onions into the pot. Return it back to oven until beef is very tender—this should take another 45–60 minutes. Once done, let it sit covered for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Enjoy this classic dish with friends or family during cozy gatherings!

How to Serve Classic Beef Bourguignon

Classic Beef Bourguignon is a dish that warms the heart and delights the palate. Serving it right enhances its rich flavors and makes for a memorable meal.

With Crusty Bread

• A fresh baguette is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
• Sourdough bread adds a tangy twist that complements the richness of the beef.

Over Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy mashed potatoes provide a smooth texture that balances the hearty stew.
• Garlic mashed potatoes bring an extra layer of flavor to your plate.

Accompanied by Green Beans

• Steamed green beans add a bright color and crunch to your meal.
• Garlic sautéed green beans elevate this side with aromatic garlic flavors.

With a Side Salad

• A simple green salad with vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the rich dish.
• A Caesar salad can add creaminess and a bit of crunch, making it a satisfying pairing.

Served with Polenta

• Creamy polenta provides a comforting base that pairs wonderfully with the beef stew.
• Grilled polenta cakes offer a crunchy texture for added variety.

Paired with Rice

• Coconut rice can introduce an exotic flavor profile to your meal.
• Herbed rice pilaf adds depth with fresh herbs and spices.

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How to Perfect Classic Beef Bourguignon

Perfecting Classic Beef Bourguignon ensures every bite is tender and flavorful. Here are some tips to elevate your cooking.

• Choose quality beef: The best cuts, like chuck roast, provide tenderness when cooked low and slow.
• Brown your meat well: Searing the beef properly develops rich flavors through caramelization.
• Use good wine: A bold Burgundy or similar red wine enhances the overall taste of the dish.
• Cook low and slow: Allowing sufficient time in the oven breaks down tough fibers in the meat, yielding fork-tender results.
• Let it rest: Allowing the stew to sit after cooking lets flavors meld beautifully before serving.
• Adjust seasoning last: Taste before serving and adjust salt, pepper, or herbs to achieve your desired flavor profile.

Best Side Dishes for Classic Beef Bourguignon

Pairing side dishes with Classic Beef Bourguignon enhances your dining experience. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery, these potatoes soak up the savory sauce beautifully.
2. Crusty French Baguette: Ideal for dipping into the rich sauce, adding texture and flavor.
3. Steamed Broccoli: This vibrant green vegetable adds color and nutrients while providing a light contrast.
4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized sprouts bring earthy flavors that complement the beef stew perfectly.
5. Herbed Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice mixed with herbs enhances flavor without overpowering the main dish.
6. Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing salad balances out the hearty nature of Beef Bourguignon, making for a well-rounded meal.
7. Creamy Polenta: Smooth polenta acts as a delightful base for soaking up all those savory juices.
8. Oven-Roasted Carrots: Sweet roasted carrots add natural sweetness that pairs well with robust flavors of the stew.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Classic Beef Bourguignon, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Not browning the beef properly: Searing the beef is crucial for flavor. Make sure to brown it on all sides to develop that rich taste.
• Skipping the bacon: Bacon adds a depth of flavor that enhances the dish. Don’t skip this step; it’s essential for a great broth.
• Using low-quality wine: The wine you choose greatly affects the sauce’s flavor. Opt for a good-quality Burgundy or bold red wine for the best results.
• Rushing the cooking time: This dish benefits from slow cooking. Allowing it to simmer longer makes the beef tender and infuses flavors deeply.
• Not letting it rest before serving: Letting the dish sit after cooking helps flavors meld together. Aim for at least 30 minutes before serving.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Best consumed within 3-4 days for optimal taste.

Freezing Classic Beef Bourguignon

• Freeze in a vacuum-sealed bag or airtight container.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Classic Beef Bourguignon

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat covered for about 30 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use microwave-safe containers and heat in intervals, stirring occasionally, until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Classic Beef Bourguignon that can help you perfect your dish.

Can I use different cuts of beef for Classic Beef Bourguignon?

Yes, while beef chuck is preferred, other cuts like brisket or round can work as well. Just ensure they have enough marbling for tenderness.

How do I make Classic Beef Bourguignon gluten-free?

Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to thicken the sauce without gluten.

What side dishes pair well with Classic Beef Bourguignon?

Serve it with mashed potatoes, crusty bread, or a fresh green salad to balance the richness of the dish.

Can I prepare Classic Beef Bourguignon in advance?

Absolutely! It tastes even better when made a day ahead as flavors deepen overnight. Just reheat before serving.

Final Thoughts

Classic Beef Bourguignon is not only delicious but also versatile enough for various occasions. This comforting dish brings warmth and joy to any table. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or herbs!