Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that wraps you in warmth and comfort, this Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe is the one! Imagine tender chunks of beef simmered in a rich, fragrant apple vinegar sauce; it’s the kind of meal that feels like a hug on a chilly day. Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner or impressing friends at a gathering, this dish is sure to be a hit.

What makes this recipe so special? It combines simple ingredients with traditional cooking techniques to create something truly delicious. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and Satisfying: This dish is pure comfort food, perfect for those days when you need a little extra coziness.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it in advance! The flavors deepen beautifully when made ahead of time.
• Family Favorite: Everyone will love the tender beef and rich sauce—it’s sure to please even picky eaters!
• Impressive Presentation: Serve it up in a beautiful bowl, and you’ll feel like a gourmet chef without all the fuss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these wholesome ingredients is half the fun! Each one plays an important role in building layers of flavor. Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe:

For the Base

• 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

For the Sauce

• 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

For the Finishing Touches

• 10 oz frozen pearl onions, defrosted and drained
• 16 oz cremini mushrooms, quartered
• kosher salt
• freshly cracked pepper

Variations

This Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe is quite flexible! Here are some fun variations to consider if you want to mix things up:

• Swap the protein: Try using chicken thighs instead of beef for a lighter version. They will soak up all that delicious sauce!
• Add root veggies: Toss in potatoes or parsnips along with your carrots for added heartiness.
• Go plant-based: Substitute the beef with hearty mushrooms or lentils for a vegetarian twist. Just adjust your cooking times accordingly!
• Experiment with herbs: If thyme isn’t your favorite, feel free to use rosemary or oregano for a different flavor profile.

How to Make Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). A warm oven gets things started right as we prepare our flavorful stew.

Step 2: Render the Bacon

Start by adding the chopped bacon to your 5-quart Dutch oven over medium-low heat. The gentle cooking will allow the fat to render out slowly, giving you crispy bacon bits while adding incredible flavor to your dish.

Step 3: Sear the Beef

Once your bacon is nice and crispy, remove it from the pot with a slotted spoon and set aside. Season your cubes of beef generously with salt and pepper. Increase the heat on your Dutch oven to medium-high and sear each piece until browned on all sides. This step is crucial as browning enhances depth of flavor!

Step 4: Sauté Your Veggies

Lower the heat back down to medium and melt two tablespoons of butter in the same pot. Add in your onions and carrots, stirring frequently for about 2-3 minutes until they soften. Adding garlic next allows its aroma to fill your kitchen—cook just long enough until fragrant before adding tomato paste. This helps deepen its flavor; cook until it darkens slightly.

Step 5: Add Liquids and Herbs

With everything sautéed nicely, sprinkle flour over the mixture and stir well for about 2-3 minutes. Then pour in that tangy apple vinegar while scraping any tasty brown bits from the bottom—a technique called deglazing! Next, add both beef stock and bouillon before returning your beautifully browned beef and crispy bacon along with thyme and bay leaves back into the pot.

Step 6: Cook Low & Slow

Cover your pot tightly and transfer it into your preheated oven. Let it cook undisturbed for about 2½ hours. This slow cooking ensures that every bite of beef becomes incredibly tender!

Step 7: Finish with Mushrooms & Pearl Onions

As your bourguignon nears completion, melt remaining butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add mushrooms first; they should cook until golden brown before tossing in pearl onions for an additional five minutes—season them well!

Finally, after removing your bourguignon from the oven, stir these delicious additions right into it. Cover again—allowing flavors to meld beautifully—before serving up this comforting delight!

Enjoy making this Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe! It’s sure to become a cherished part of your culinary repertoire.

Pro Tips for Making Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe

Making this classic beef bourguignon is a delightful journey into French cuisine, and with these pro tips, you’ll ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time!

• Choose the Right Cut of Beef: Using beef chuck is essential for achieving that melt-in-your-mouth texture. The marbling in chuck provides flavor and tenderness as it cooks low and slow.

• Don’t Rush the Searing: Take your time to sear the beef properly. This step builds a deep, rich flavor that forms the base of your sauce. A well-browned surface adds complexity to your dish.

• Use Fresh Herbs: Incorporating fresh thyme and bay leaves enhances the aroma and depth of flavor. Fresh herbs impart a brightness that balances the richness of the beef.

• Let It Rest: After removing from the oven, let your beef bourguignon rest for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully and makes serving easier.

• Adjust Seasoning Before Serving: Just before you serve, taste your bourguignon. A little extra salt or freshly cracked pepper can elevate the overall flavor profile beautifully.

How to Serve Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe

When it comes to serving your classic beef bourguignon, presentation is key! This hearty dish deserves a warm welcome on your dining table, and here are some ideas for how to do just that.

Garnishes

• Fresh Parsley: Chopped fresh parsley sprinkled over the top adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness that brightens up this rich dish.
• Zest of Lemon: A small amount of lemon zest can provide a refreshing contrast to the savory flavors of the beef bourguignon.

Side Dishes

• Creamy Mashed Potatoes: These buttery mashed potatoes are perfect for soaking up all that delicious sauce. They add a comforting element to your meal.

• Crusty Baguette: Serve slices of warm baguette on the side for dipping into the sauce. The crunchy exterior and soft interior make it an ideal companion.

• Steamed Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans add a lovely color contrast and a fresh crunch that pairs well with the richness of the beef.

• Roasted Root Vegetables: A medley of roasted carrots, parsnips, and potatoes not only complements your main dish but also adds seasonal warmth to your meal.

With these serving suggestions and tips in hand, you’re ready to impress family and friends with your culinary skills! Enjoy this classic French dish that’s sure to become a cherished favorite around your table.

Make Ahead and Storage

This classic beef bourguignon recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and enjoy a hearty, delicious meal throughout the week. The flavors deepen as it sits, making it even more delightful when reheated.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Let the dish cool down before freezing.
• Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
• For best results, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

• For stovetop reheating, place the beef bourguignon in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• If using a microwave, transfer to a microwave-safe bowl and cover loosely; heat on medium power until warm, stirring halfway through.
• Ensure it’s heated thoroughly before serving.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this classic dish!

What is the focus of the Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe?

The focus of this recipe is on tender beef simmered in a rich apple vinegar sauce, complemented by hearty vegetables and fresh herbs. This dish captures the essence of French comfort food.

Can I substitute the apple vinegar in my Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe?

Yes! If you don’t have apple vinegar, feel free to use a bold red wine vinegar or another type of flavorful vinegar that suits your taste. Just keep in mind that it may slightly change the flavor profile.

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

The total cooking time for this recipe is approximately 240 minutes (4 hours), including both oven cooking times and preparation. It’s worth every minute for that deep flavor!

Is there a vegetarian version of Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute mushrooms for beef and use vegetable stock instead. Add extra carrots and peas to create a similar depth of flavor while keeping it plant-based.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating this classic beef bourguignon recipe! It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with rich flavors and warmth that brings family together. Enjoy each bite as you savor the love poured into this dish. Happy cooking!