Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that warms the heart and fills the belly, you’ve come to the right place! This classic beef bourguignon recipe is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that brings friends and family together. The aroma of tender beef simmering in a rich apple vinegar sauce will have everyone gathering around the table, eager for a taste. Whether it’s a chilly weeknight or a festive holiday gathering, this dish is sure to impress.

What makes this recipe extra special? It’s all about the layers of flavor and the love you put into each step. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to prepare! Let’s dive in and discover why this classic beef bourguignon recipe should be on your dinner rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting flavors: The combination of tender beef, hearty vegetables, and a savory sauce makes every bite feel like a warm hug.
• Perfect for gatherings: Whether it’s a family dinner or a cozy gathering with friends, this dish is sure to impress your guests.
• Make-ahead friendly: You can prepare it in advance and let it sit until you’re ready to serve, making your life easier!
• Flexibility: With simple ingredients, you can adjust the recipe based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This classic beef bourguignon recipe uses simple and wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. They come together beautifully to create that rich flavor we all love. Here’s what you’ll need:

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 touch:

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

Variations

One of the best things about this classic beef bourguignon recipe is its versatility! Feel free to get creative based on your taste preferences or what you have in your pantry.

• Swap the protein: Try using chicken thighs or even hearty vegetables like jackfruit for a vegetarian twist.
• Change up the veggies: Add potatoes or parsnips for extra heartiness.
• Spice it up: Include some red pepper flakes for an added kick if you enjoy some heat!
• Experiment with herbs: Fresh rosemary or oregano can bring new flavors to this classic dish.

How to Make Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures that when we’re ready to transfer our pot, it will already be hot and ready for slow cooking.

Step 2: Render the Bacon

In your trusty 5 qt Dutch oven, add the chopped bacon over medium-low heat. Cook until it’s browned and has released its delicious fat. This step not only adds flavor but also creates a base for sautéing our vegetables later on. Once done, use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a small bowl.

Step 3: Sear the Beef

Season those lovely cubes of beef with salt and pepper. Increase the heat to medium-high and sear them in batches until they are nicely browned on all sides. This browning creates depth of flavor through caramelization—don’t skip this step!

Step 4: Sauté the Veggies

Lower the heat back down to medium and melt two tablespoons of butter in the same pot. Add in your chopped onions and carrots, sautéing them for about 2-3 minutes until they begin softening. Then toss in minced garlic followed by tomato paste—cook until everything darkens slightly. Finally, sprinkle flour over this mix and stir constantly for another few minutes; this helps thicken our sauce later!

Step 5: Add Vinegar, Stock, and Herbs

Pour in that fragrant Burgundy apple vinegar while scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of your pot. Next, add in your beef stock along with Better than Bouillon—this will intensify our flavors! Return the seared beef and bacon back into the pot along with thyme sprigs and bay leaves. Cover it up tightly and pop it into your preheated oven.

Step 6: Incorporate Mushrooms and Onions

After about 2 ½ hours of slow cooking, melt remaining butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once bubbly, toss in quartered mushrooms until they turn golden brown; then add pearl onions for an additional five minutes of cooking time. Season these with salt and pepper before adding them back into our pot!

Step 7: Final Bake Time

Remove your Dutch oven from the oven carefully (it will be hot!). Stir in those beautifully browned mushrooms and pearl onions before covering again and returning it back into the oven for another 45-60 minutes until everything is fork-tender. Once done, let it rest covered for about half an hour before serving.

Enjoy every comforting bite of this classic beef bourguignon recipe—with good company around your table!

Pro Tips for Making Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe

Making this classic beef bourguignon recipe is a delightful journey into French cooking, and with a few pro tips, you can ensure it turns out perfectly every time!

• Choose the right cut of beef: Using beef chuck is essential as it becomes tender and flavorful when slow-cooked. Avoid lean cuts, as they may dry out during the long cooking process.

• Don’t rush the browning: Searing the beef and vegetables properly develops deep flavors through caramelization. Take your time with this step to enhance the overall taste of your dish.

• Use quality apple vinegar: The flavor of your apple vinegar will significantly impact the final dish. Opt for a bold variety that complements the richness of the beef.

• Let it rest before serving: Allowing your beef bourguignon to rest after cooking helps the flavors meld together beautifully. This step also makes it easier to serve, as it thickens slightly.

• Make it ahead of time: Beef bourguignon often tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop overnight. Consider preparing it in advance for a special occasion or cozy gathering.

How to Serve Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe

When serving your classic beef bourguignon, presentation can elevate this hearty dish from simple to spectacular. Here are some ideas to make your meal shine!

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: Chopped fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness that balances the rich flavors of the stew.
• Crusty baguette: Serve with slices of crusty baguette for soaking up all that delicious sauce; it’s a comforting addition that everyone will love.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes are a classic pairing that complements the richness of beef bourguignon perfectly.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their slight bitterness balances out the savory stew while adding a wonderful crunch.
• Green Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the hearty stew and enhances your meal’s overall balance.
• Steamed Green Beans: Bright green beans add vibrant color and a satisfying crunch. Lightly seasoned, they provide an excellent textural contrast to the tender beef and sauce.

Enjoy crafting this comforting dish, and let its warm flavors bring joy to your table!

Make Ahead and Storage

This classic beef bourguignon recipe is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy delicious home-cooked meals throughout the week. Plus, the flavors deepen and improve after sitting, so you can look forward to even tastier leftovers!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Cool the beef bourguignon completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags and portion out for easier thawing.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Heat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat until warmed through.
• You can also reheat in a microwave-safe dish, covered loosely with a lid or microwave-safe wrap.

FAQs

If you have questions about this classic beef bourguignon recipe, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries:

Can I use other types of vinegar in this Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe?

Yes! While apple vinegar gives a wonderful flavor, you can also experiment with red wine vinegar or balsamic vinegar for a different twist.

How do I achieve tender beef in my Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe?

The key is slow cooking. Allowing the beef to simmer for several hours helps break down tough fibers, resulting in melt-in-your-mouth tenderness.

What should I serve with my Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe?

Traditionally, it pairs beautifully with crusty baguettes, mashed potatoes, or even a side of buttery noodles.

Can I make this dish without alcohol?

Absolutely! This recipe uses apple vinegar instead of wine, making it suitable for everyone while still maintaining rich flavors.

How long will my leftovers last?

Stored properly in an airtight container, your beef bourguignon leftovers will last about 3 days in the fridge and up to 3 months if frozen.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’ve enjoyed exploring this classic beef bourguignon recipe as much as I love sharing it! With its warm flavors and comforting aroma, it’s truly a dish that brings people together. I can’t wait for you to try making it at home—I’m sure you’ll savor every delicious bite. Happy cooking!

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