Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe

If you’re looking for a comforting dish that feels like a warm hug, then you’ve come to the right place! This classic beef bourguignon recipe has become a cherished favorite in my home. Imagine tender pieces of beef lovingly simmered in a rich apple vinegar sauce, infused with the flavors of herbs, vegetables, and just a hint of sweetness from the onions and carrots. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings family and friends together.

Perfect for cozy weeknights or festive gatherings, this dish is sure to impress anyone lucky enough to share it with you. The best part? It’s easier to prepare than you might think! Let’s dive into why this classic beef bourguignon recipe deserves a spot on your dinner table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich flavors: The combination of apple vinegar and fresh herbs creates a depth of flavor that’s irresistible.
• Tender meat: Slow cooking ensures that the beef becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender.
• Family-friendly: Everyone loves a hearty stew, making it perfect for family dinners.
• Make-ahead magic: This dish gets even better the next day, so it’s great for meal prep.
• Versatile side options: Pair it with crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients! You won’t need anything fancy here—just good quality items that will work together beautifully in this delicious dish.

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

What I love about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your personal taste.

• Swap the protein: Try using chicken thighs or even hearty vegetables for a vegetarian twist!
• Add different veggies: Incorporate potatoes, parsnips, or green beans for extra flavor and texture.
• Use white wine vinegar: If you’re out of apple vinegar, white wine vinegar offers a different yet delightful tang.
• Experiment with spices: Add some smoked paprika or a dash of cayenne pepper if you like a little heat!

How to Make Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first—let’s get our oven preheated to 350°F. This is an important step because we want our stew to cook evenly and develop those fantastic flavors as it bakes.

Step 2: Render the Bacon

Next up, let’s start by adding the chopped bacon to your 5 qt dutch oven over medium-low heat. The goal here is to cook the bacon until it’s crispy and has released its flavorful fat. This fat will serve as the base for our stew. Once done, use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon and set it aside.

Step 3: Sear the Beef

Now it’s time for the star of our show—our beef! Season those lovely cubes generously with salt and pepper. Increase your heat to medium-high and sear them until they are browned all over. This step locks in those juices and adds amazing flavor. Remember not to overcrowd the pot; sear in batches if needed!

Step 4: Sauté the Veggies

Turn down your heat to medium again and add 2 tablespoons of butter. Toss in your chopped onions and carrots, sautéing them for about 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften. Then add garlic and cook for another minute before stirring in tomato paste. The paste should darken slightly as it cooks—that’s when you know it’s ready! Finally, sprinkle flour over everything; this will help thicken our stew as it cooks.

Step 5: Add Apple Vinegar and Stock

Now it’s time to bring everything together! Pour in your apple vinegar while scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pot (those bits are pure flavor!). Next, add in your beef stock along with Better than Bouillon and give everything a good stir. Bring it all to a simmer before adding back in your seared beef and crispy bacon along with thyme and bay leaves. Cover up that pot and pop it into the oven!

Step 6: Add Mushrooms and Pearl Onions

After about 2 1/2 hours, it’s time for our mushrooms and pearl onions! In a skillet over medium-high heat, melt the remaining butter until hot and foamy. Toss in those mushrooms until browned, followed by pearl onions for another five minutes. Season them well with salt and pepper before adding them back into the dutch oven.

Step 7: Final Cook Time

Return your pot back into the oven! Let it cook for another 45-60 minutes until everything is perfectly tender. When done, allow it to rest covered for at least 30 minutes before serving—it helps enhance those rich flavors even more!

Enjoy sharing this delightful classic beef bourguignon recipe with family or friends; I guarantee they’ll be asking for seconds!

Pro Tips for Making Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe

Making this classic beef bourguignon is a rewarding experience that brings the warmth of French cooking into your kitchen!

• Use high-quality beef: Choosing a good cut of beef chuck is crucial as it becomes wonderfully tender during the slow cooking process, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.
• Don’t rush the browning: Take your time when searing the beef and vegetables. Proper browning develops rich flavors that make your bourguignon truly exceptional.
• Let it rest: Allowing the finished dish to sit covered for 30 minutes before serving lets the flavors meld together, resulting in a more harmonious taste experience.
• Taste as you go: Adjusting seasoning throughout the cooking process ensures that every bite is flavorful. Don’t hesitate to tweak with salt and pepper as needed!
• Pair with good bread: Serving this dish with a crusty baguette not only complements the flavors but also provides a perfect vehicle for soaking up that delicious sauce.

How to Serve Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe

Presenting your beef bourguignon beautifully can elevate the dining experience, making it feel even more special. Here are some ideas to enhance your meal.

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that contrasts beautifully with the rich, deep flavors of the dish.
• Thyme sprigs: Placing a few fresh thyme sprigs on top not only looks lovely but also reinforces the herbaceous notes in your beef bourguignon.

Side Dishes

• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes serve as a perfect base, soaking up all that luscious sauce while providing comfort in every bite.
• Roasted Root Vegetables: A medley of seasonal root vegetables roasted until caramelized offers natural sweetness and a delightful texture contrast with the tender beef.
• Steamed Green Beans: Bright green beans add a lovely crunch and color to your plate, balancing out the richness of the bourguignon.
• Crusty Baguette: A freshly baked baguette is ideal for sopping up every drop of that rich sauce, making each bite even more indulgent.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to impress your guests (or treat yourself) with an unforgettable meal! Enjoy every delicious moment of your classic beef bourguignon.

Make Ahead and Storage

This classic beef bourguignon recipe is not only a delight to prepare but also perfect for meal prep! It tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together, making it an excellent choice for those busy weeknights or cozy weekends.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the beef bourguignon to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Ensure the beef bourguignon is cooled before freezing.
• 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 in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals, stirring between each to ensure even heating.

FAQs

If you have questions about this delicious dish, you’re in the right place!

Can I use red wine instead of apple vinegar in the Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe?

While traditional recipes often use red wine, this version utilizes bold apple vinegar for a delightful twist. It provides acidity and depth without alcohol, making it suitable for everyone.

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

The total cooking time is about 4 hours including both stovetop and oven cooking. This allows the meat to become tender and infused with rich flavors.

Can I make this Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe in a slow cooker?

Yes! After searing the beef and sautéing the vegetables, transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours until the beef is tender.

What side dishes pair well with Classic Beef Bourguignon?

Some great sides include creamy mashed potatoes, crusty bread, or a fresh green salad. These complement the rich flavors of the dish beautifully!

Final Thoughts

This classic beef bourguignon recipe is sure to warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds! With its tender chunks of beef swimming in a rich sauce, it’s perfect for gatherings or cozy nights at home. I hope you enjoy making this dish as much as I do—don’t hesitate to get creative with your own twists! Happy cooking!

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