Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then this Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe is just what you need! This dish is all about comfort, featuring tender chunks of beef that melt in your mouth, simmered in a rich apple vinegar sauce that’s bursting with flavor. It’s perfect for cozy family dinners or special occasions when you want to impress your loved ones without too much hassle.

What I love most about this recipe is how it combines simple ingredients to create something truly magical. The slow cooking brings out the best flavors, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or festive gatherings alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: With a few easy steps, you can create an impressive meal without spending all day in the kitchen.
• Family-Friendly Delight: Everyone loves hearty beef stew, and this recipe is sure to please even the pickiest eaters!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: It tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers.
• Rich Flavor Profile: The combination of apple vinegar and fresh herbs delivers a depth of flavor that’s simply irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! You’ll find that these are simple, wholesome items that come together beautifully. No fancy techniques required—just good food made with love.

For the Beef Bourguignon

• 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 recipe is quite flexible, allowing you to customize it based on what you have on hand or personal preferences. Here are some fun ideas to switch things up:

• Swap the protein: If you’re not in the mood for beef, try using chicken thighs for a lighter version.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some diced potatoes or parsnips for added texture and nutrition.
• Go gluten-free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend without sacrificing taste.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat that complements the rich flavors.

How to Make Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). A hot oven will help cook everything evenly and allow those lovely flavors to meld together perfectly.

Step 2: Render the Bacon

In your trusty 5 qt Dutch oven, add the chopped bacon over medium-low heat. Cook until it’s browned and has released its fat. The rendered fat adds flavor to your dish. Once done, use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a bowl—it’ll be added back later!

Step 3: Sear the Beef

Season those beautiful cubes of beef with salt and pepper. Now crank up the heat to medium-high! Searing gives your meat that gorgeous brown crust which locks in juices and enhances flavor. Depending on your pot size, do this in batches if needed. Remove the browned beef from the pot when finished.

Step 4: Sauté the Veggies

Lower the heat back down to medium and toss in 2 tablespoons of butter. Add in your chopped onions and carrots; sauté them for about 2-3 minutes until they start to soften. Stir in minced garlic and let it cook for another minute until fragrant. Then mix in tomato paste; cook until it darkens slightly—this step deepens its flavor! Finally, sprinkle flour over top and stir well; this helps thicken your sauce later.

Step 5: Add Apple Vinegar, Stock, and Herbs

Pour in that tangy apple vinegar next! Use a silicone spoon to scrape any delicious browned bits off the bottom of your pot—these bits are packed with flavor! Next, add beef stock and bouillon; bring everything to a gentle simmer before reintroducing both bacon and beef along with thyme and bay leaves. Cover it up and pop it into the oven!

Step 6: Add Mushrooms and Pearl Onions

After about 2½ hours (your kitchen should smell heavenly), heat remaining butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add quartered mushrooms until they’re beautifully browned—this caramelization adds depth! Then stir in pearl onions until they’re golden as well; season with salt and pepper.

Step 7: Final Touches

Take out your Dutch oven from the oven—careful! It’s hot! Fold in those sautéed mushrooms and onions gently into your bourguignon mixture. Pop it back into the oven for another 45-60 minutes until everything is tender as can be. Let it rest covered for about half an hour before serving; this wait allows flavors to settle beautifully!

Serve this Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe warm with fresh bread or over creamy mashed potatoes for an unforgettable meal that everyone will adore! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe

Creating a comforting and delicious beef bourguignon can be a delightful experience! Here are some pro tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time:

• Choose the right cut of beef: Using beef chuck is recommended as it becomes wonderfully tender during the slow cooking process, soaking up all the flavors.

• Don’t rush the browning: Searing the beef and vegetables properly enhances the dish’s depth of flavor by creating those lovely browned bits at the bottom of the pot, which add richness to the sauce.

• Use quality vinegar: Opting for a good-quality apple vinegar will elevate your dish with its tangy notes. It balances perfectly with the richness of the beef and adds a unique twist.

• Let it rest: After cooking, allowing your beef bourguignon to rest covered for 30 minutes helps the flavors meld together, making each bite even more delicious.

• Experiment with herbs: Feel free to add or substitute herbs like rosemary or parsley to customize your dish according to your taste preferences!

How to Serve Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe

Serving classic beef bourguignon is about enhancing its rich flavors and creating an inviting dining experience. Here are some creative ideas on how to present this delightful dish:

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: Chopped fresh parsley brings a pop of color and fresh flavor that brightens up this hearty dish.
• A sprinkle of cracked black pepper: This adds a little extra heat and aromatic fragrance right before serving, making it visually appealing too.

Side Dishes

• Creamy mashed potatoes: Smooth and buttery mashed potatoes are perfect for soaking up that rich bourguignon sauce, creating a comforting combination.
• Crusty bread: A warm loaf of crusty bread is essential for dipping into the sauce. It complements the dish beautifully and adds texture.
• Steamed green beans: Bright green beans add a crisp contrast to the richness of beef bourguignon, providing balance in both flavor and nutrition.
• Garlic roasted asparagus: The nutty flavor from roasting asparagus pairs nicely with the savory notes of the dish while adding vibrant color to your plate.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your classic beef bourguignon will not only taste divine but also look stunning on your dining table! Enjoy every moment as you share this culinary masterpiece with family and friends.

Make Ahead and Storage

This classic beef bourguignon recipe is not just delightful when served fresh; it’s also perfect for meal prep! Making it in advance allows the flavors to deepen, making each bite even more delicious. Here’s how you can store and enjoy your leftovers.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely at room temperature.
• Transfer the beef bourguignon to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Cool the beef bourguignon completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer 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, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• Alternatively, reheat in a microwave-safe dish, covering it loosely, for about 5-7 minutes on medium power.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this classic dish that might help you as you prepare your meal!

What is a Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe?

The classic beef bourguignon recipe is a traditional French stew featuring tender beef simmered in a rich sauce made predominantly with apple vinegar and flavored with vegetables and herbs. It’s a comforting dish perfect for any occasion!

Can I make a vegetarian version of Beef Bourguignon?

Absolutely! To create a vegetarian version, substitute the beef with hearty vegetables like mushrooms and add vegetable stock instead of beef stock. You can also use plant-based protein options for added texture.

How long does it take to cook a Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe?

This classic beef bourguignon recipe typically takes about 4 hours from start to finish, including prep time and cooking time. The slow cooking helps achieve that tender, flavorful meat everyone loves!

What sides pair well with Beef Bourguignon?

Some great side dishes include mashed potatoes, crusty bread, or a simple green salad. These complement the rich flavors of the stew wonderfully!

Final Thoughts

I hope this classic beef bourguignon recipe brings warmth and joy to your kitchen! Its rich flavors and comforting aroma make it a special dish that can turn any meal into a celebration. Enjoy making this hearty stew, and don’t hesitate to share it with loved ones. Happy cooking!