Beef Bourguignon

Tender fall apart chunks of beef simmered in a rich red apple vinegar gravy makes Beef Bourguignon an incredible family dinner. This classic French dish is perfect for cozy gatherings, festive celebrations, or a comforting weeknight meal. With its deep flavors and hearty ingredients, it’s sure to impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The combination of red apple vinegar and beef creates a depth of flavor that is truly satisfying.
• Versatile Cooking Methods: Whether you prefer using a slow cooker, Instant Pot, or the stovetop, this recipe adapts easily to your kitchen setup.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for family dinners, entertaining friends, or even meal prep for the week ahead.
• Easy to Follow: Step-by-step instructions ensure that even novice cooks can create a delicious Beef Bourguignon.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With its hearty ingredients and savory aroma, this dish is sure to delight everyone at the table.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare Beef Bourguignon, you’ll need some essential tools that make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven or heavy pot
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven or heavy pot: This tool retains heat well, ensuring even cooking of the beef and helping to develop rich flavors.
• Sharp knife: A good knife makes chopping vegetables easy and safe, allowing for precise cuts in your preparation.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for balancing flavors in this recipe.

Ingredients

For the Base

• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
• 6 ounces Turkey Bacon (roughly chopped)
• 3 pounds beef brisket (trimmed of fat, chuck steak or stewing beef cut into 2-inch chunks)

Vegetables & Aromatics

• 1 carrot (large, sliced 1/2-inch thick)
• 1 white onion (large, diced)
• 6 cloves garlic (minced)

Seasonings & Liquids

• 1 pinch coarse salt
• 1 pinch ground pepper
• 2 tablespoons flour

Optional Ingredients

• 12 pearl onions (small, optional)

Main Ingredients

• 3 cups red apple vinegar (like Merlot, Pinot Noir, or Chianti – use only 2 cups for a milder sauce)
• 2-3 cups beef stock (if using 2 cups of apple vinegar, use 3 cups beef stock)

Final Touches

• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 beef bouillon cube (crushed)
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (finely chopped)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (finely chopped, divided)
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 pound white mushrooms (fresh, small or brown mushrooms, quartered)
• 2 tablespoons butter

How to Make Beef Bourguignon

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients. Chop the vegetables and measure out liquids to streamline your cooking process.

Step 2: Sauté Bacon and Beef

In a Dutch oven over medium heat:
1. Add olive oil and chopped bacon. Cook until crispy.
2. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon; set aside.
3. In the same pot, add chunks of beef. Brown them on all sides.

Step 3: Add Vegetables

Once the beef is browned:
1. Add carrots and onions to the pot. Sauté until softened.
2. Stir in minced garlic for an additional minute.

Step 4: Incorporate Flour and Liquids

Sprinkle flour over meat and vegetables:
1. Stir well to coat evenly.
2. Gradually pour in red apple vinegar while stirring; then add beef stock.

Step 5: Season the Dish

Add remaining seasonings:
1. Stir in tomato paste and crushed bouillon cube.
2. Toss in thyme, parsley (reserve some for garnish), bay leaves, salt, and pepper.

Step 6: Simmer

Bring to a gentle simmer:
1. Cover tightly with lid.
2. Cook on low heat for about 180 minutes until beef is tender.

Step 7: Serve

Once cooked:
1. Discard bay leaves.
2. Serve hot with crusty bread or mashed potatoes garnished with fresh parsley.

Enjoy your homemade Beef Bourguignon!

How to Serve Beef Bourguignon

Beef Bourguignon is a comforting and hearty dish that is perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Whether you choose to serve it with traditional sides or with a twist, here are some great serving suggestions.

Classic French Bread

• Freshly baked baguette is perfect for soaking up the rich gravy of Beef Bourguignon.
• Serve with butter on the side for an extra touch of indulgence.

Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy mashed potatoes complement the flavors of the beef and provide a smooth texture contrast.
• Add garlic or herbs for an additional flavor boost.

Egg Noodles

• Tender egg noodles are a classic pairing that can absorb the sauce beautifully.
• Drizzle with a bit of olive oil after cooking to enhance flavor.

Roasted Vegetables

• A mix of seasonal roasted vegetables adds color and nutrition to your meal.
• Consider using carrots, Brussels sprouts, and parsnips for variety.

Green Salad

• A fresh green salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the beef.
• Include ingredients like arugula, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers for freshness.

Red Wine

• A glass of good red wine, like a Pinot Noir, pairs perfectly with Beef Bourguignon.
• Serve it slightly chilled to enhance its flavors alongside your dish.

How to Perfect Beef Bourguignon

Making Beef Bourguignon requires attention to detail but can be easily mastered. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

• Choose Quality Meat: Use high-quality beef brisket or chuck steak for tender results. This will ensure the meat breaks down beautifully during cooking.

• Sear Properly: Always sear the meat well before simmering. This adds depth and richness to the sauce through caramelization.

• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh thyme and parsley enhance the dish’s flavor. Dried herbs won’t provide as vibrant a taste.

• Adjust Vinegar Amount: If you prefer a milder sauce, reduce the red apple vinegar from 3 cups to 2 cups. This modification can balance acidity depending on personal preference.

Best Side Dishes for Beef Bourguignon

To complement your Beef Bourguignon, consider these delicious side dishes that enhance its hearty flavors while providing variety.

1. Garlic Bread – Crunchy bread infused with garlic butter makes for a delightful accompaniment that’s great for dipping.
2. Polenta – Creamy polenta offers a different texture and absorbs the flavorful sauce wonderfully.
3. Ratatouille – A colorful vegetable medley not only looks appealing but also adds fresh flavors against the rich stew.
4. Gratin Dauphinois – This creamy potato dish brings another level of comfort to your dinner table.
5. Steamed Asparagus – Lightly steamed asparagus adds brightness and freshness to balance out the meal’s richness.
6. Rice Pilaf – A fluffy rice pilaf seasoned with herbs provides a neutral base that complements Beef Bourguignon well.
7. Couscous – Quick-cooking couscous is an excellent option that soaks up all those delicious juices beautifully.
8. Brussels Sprouts – Roasted Brussels sprouts add crunchiness and pair well with beef dishes due to their nutty flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Beef Bourguignon, it’s easy to make a few missteps. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the browning step: Not browning the beef properly can lead to a lack of flavor. Make sure to sear the beef chunks until they are nicely browned for depth of flavor.
• Using low-quality wine: The quality of the wine affects the dish significantly. Use a good quality red wine that you would enjoy drinking; it will enhance the overall taste.
• Ignoring seasoning: Under-seasoning can lead to bland Beef Bourguignon. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed throughout the cooking process.
• Not allowing enough time for simmering: Rushing the cooking process can result in tough meat. Allow plenty of time for the beef to become tender by simmering at low heat.
• Overcrowding the pot: Adding too many ingredients at once can cause steaming instead of browning. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow it to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Beef Bourguignon

• Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
• Leave space at the top of containers for expansion.

Reheating Beef Bourguignon

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil until heated through, about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe dish, covered, for 3-5 minutes or until hot, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Gently reheat over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Beef Bourguignon that may help you as you prepare this delicious dish.

What is Beef Bourguignon?

Beef Bourguignon is a classic French stew made with tender beef slow-cooked in red wine and flavored with garlic, onions, and herbs.

Can I use other meats for Beef Bourguignon?

While traditional recipes use beef, you can experiment with lamb or pork for different flavors, though it may alter the classic taste.

How long does it take to make Beef Bourguignon?

The total time is around 195 minutes, including prep and cook time. Patience is key for tender results!

What sides pair well with Beef Bourguignon?

Serve with crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. These sides complement the rich flavors wonderfully!

Final Thoughts

Beef Bourguignon is an incredible family dinner option that warms both heart and home. Its versatility allows you to make adjustments based on your preferences or what you have on hand! Whether using a slow cooker or traditional methods, this recipe will surely delight your taste buds. Don’t hesitate to try it out!