Description
Beef Bourguignon is a classic French beef stew featuring tender chunks of beef slowly braised in red wine with herbs, garlic, and hearty vegetables. This comforting, rich dish offers deep flavors and a silky, luxurious sauce that makes perfect comfort food, ideal for family dinners or impressing guests.
Ingredients
Meat and Fat
- 2 lbs / 900g beef chuck, cut into 1½-inch cubes
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Vegetables
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 cups mushrooms, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids and Seasonings
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 cups red wine (Burgundy preferred, or Pinot Noir, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon)
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tsp fresh thyme (or ½ tsp dried thyme)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Brown the Beef: Heat olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Pat the beef dry and sear in batches to avoid overcrowding, browning all sides deeply. Remove browned beef and set aside.
- Cook the Bacon and Vegetables: In the same pot, cook chopped bacon until crispy and golden. Add onions, garlic, carrots, and mushrooms; sauté for 5 minutes until onions soften and vegetables begin to brown.
- Add the Tomato Paste and Liquids: Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1–2 minutes to deepen flavor and color. Pour in red wine, scraping up browned bits from the pot bottom. Add beef broth and stir well to combine.
- Add the Beef and Herbs: Return the browned beef to the pot. Add thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Slow Cook to Perfection: Cover with a tight-fitting lid and reduce heat to low. Simmer gently for 2½ to 3 hours, stirring occasionally, until beef is tender and the sauce thickens into a rich gravy. Alternatively, transfer the covered pot to a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for the same duration.
Notes
- Use a dry, full-bodied red wine like Pinot Noir, Merlot, or Cabernet Sauvignon for best flavor.
- Patience is key—browning the beef deeply and cooking low and slow develops the rich umami taste.
- Taste and adjust seasonings before serving; a splash more wine or salt may enhance the sauce.
- Let the stew rest before serving; flavors deepen and meld wonderfully if made a day ahead.
- For authentic garnish, add fresh parsley just before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: French
