Beef Bourguignon, also known as Beef Burgundy, is a timeless French dish that epitomizes comfort and elegance. Originating from the Burgundy region of France, this hearty stew features tender beef simmered in a rich red wine sauce, flavored with aromatic herbs and vegetables. Perfect for cozy gatherings or special occasions, here’s how to prepare this iconic dish in your own kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 1 kg beef chuck or stewing beef, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 200g bacon, diced
- 200g pearl onions, peeled
- 200g carrots, peeled and sliced
- 200g button mushrooms, halved
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 500ml red wine (preferably Burgundy or Pinot Noir)
- 500ml beef broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 bay leaves
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, season the beef cubes with salt, pepper, and flour, tossing to coat evenly.
- Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add the diced bacon and cook until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside.
- In the same pot, add the seasoned beef cubes in batches, searing them on all sides until browned. Transfer the browned beef to a plate and set aside.
- Add the pearl onions, carrots, and mushrooms to the pot, cooking until they begin to soften and caramelize, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Return the browned beef and cooked bacon to the pot. Pour in the red wine and beef broth, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits. Add the tomato paste, bay leaves, and fresh thyme sprigs.
- Bring the stew to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it gently simmer for 2-3 hours, or until the beef is tender and the sauce has thickened, stirring occasionally.
- Once the beef is fork-tender, taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Remove the bay leaves and thyme sprigs before serving.
- Serve the Beef Bourguignon hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or buttered noodles to soak up the savory sauce.
- Enjoy the rich flavors and comforting aromas of this classic French dish with family and friends. Bon appétit!
Beef Bourguignon is a labor of love that rewards patience with layers of flavor and tender, melt-in-your-mouth beef. Whether enjoyed on a chilly evening or served at a festive gathering, this timeless dish is sure to impress and delight everyone at the table.
