Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe: Cozy French Comfort in a Bowl

Nestled in the heart of french culinary tradition, this classic beef bourguignon recipe promises a symphony of rich, comforting flavors that dance across your palate.

Burgundy wine infuses each tender morsel with deep, complex notes that tell a story of rustic countryside cooking.

Generations of home chefs have perfected this iconic dish, transforming humble ingredients into a luxurious masterpiece.

Robust beef chunks slowly simmer alongside earthy mushrooms, creating an aroma that fills your kitchen with warmth and anticipation.

Crisp bacon and pearl onions add layers of delectable texture and depth to this beloved stew.

Careful techniques ensure each bite melts with incredible tenderness and sophistication.

Let your taste buds embark on a delicious journey through classic french cuisine that will make you feel like a true culinary artist.

Storing Beef Bourguignon the Right Way

• Store leftovers in airtight containers within 2 hours of cooking to prevent bacterial growth.
• Refrigerate beef bourguignon for up to 3-4 days in sealed glass or plastic containers.
• Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for maximum 3 months.
• Label containers with date and contents to track storage time.

FAQs

• What's the secret to perfectly browned beef?

Pat the beef dry before searing to ensure a nice, deep brown crust. Use high heat and avoid overcrowding the pan, which prevents steaming and promotes proper caramelization.

• Can I use a different type of meat?

While beef is traditional, you can substitute with lamb or chicken for a different flavor profile. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure the meat is tender and fully cooked.

• Why do we sear the meat before slow cooking?

Searing creates a rich, caramelized exterior that locks in flavor and adds depth to the overall dish. This technique, called the Maillard reaction, develops complex taste and improves the final texture of the meat.

Classic Beef Bourguignon That Impresses

• Savor Rustic Comfort: Dive into a hearty French classic that wraps you in warmth and rich, deep flavors perfect for a satisfying meal.
• Master Culinary Techniques: Learn professional cooking methods like searing meat and creating a complex, layered sauce that elevates your kitchen skills.
• Crowd-Pleasing Dinner Champion: A one-pot wonder that impresses family and guests with minimal fuss, making it ideal for weekend gatherings or special occasions.
• Nutritious Protein-Packed Meal: Packed with tender beef, vegetables, and robust nutrients, this dish delivers a balanced and filling dining experience that keeps everyone satisfied.

Key Ingredients in Classic Beef Bourguignon

• Beef Cubes: Tender and flavorful cuts of beef that form the heart of this classic French stew.
• Beef Stock: A rich liquid base that enhances the deep, savory flavor of the dish.
• Grape Juice: Adds a subtle sweetness and helps tenderize the meat during slow cooking.

• Onions, Carrots, Celery: A classic mirepoix that provides a foundational flavor profile for the stew.
• Garlic: Adds a robust and aromatic depth to the overall taste.
• Tomato Paste: Contributes a concentrated tomato flavor and helps thicken the sauce.
• Bay Leaves, Thyme: Herbs that infuse the dish with traditional French countryside flavors.

• Baby Potatoes: Soft and creamy potatoes that absorb the rich sauce and add heartiness to the dish.
• Fresh Parsley: A bright, fresh garnish that adds color and a light herbal note.
• Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the natural flavors of the ingredients.
• Olive Oil: Used for searing the beef and sautéing the vegetables, adding a subtle richness.
• Water: Helps create the right consistency for the stew.

How to Cook Classic Beef Bourguignon

Step 1: Sizzle the Beef

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sprinkle salt and pepper over beef cubes.

Brown the beef in batches, creating a delicious golden crust on all sides. Transfer the seared meat to a plate and set aside.

Step 2: Saute Aromatic Vegetables

• Onions
• Carrots
• Celery

Cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to release their delightful flavors.

Step 3: Build Flavor Layers

Add garlic and tomato paste to the vegetable mixture.

Stir and cook for 1 minute until the aroma fills your kitchen.

Step 4: Combine and Simmer

Return the seared beef to the pot.

• Beef stock
• Grape juice
• Water

Drop in bay leaves and thyme for extra depth of flavor. Bring the liquid to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer.

Cover the pot and let it cook slowly for 1.5-2 hours, stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Add Potatoes

Introduce baby potatoes to the pot.

Continue cooking for an additional 30 minutes or until the potatoes become tender and soft.

Step 6: Final Touches

Remove the bay leaves.

Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Sprinkle fresh parsley on top before serving for a burst of color and freshness.

Tips to Perfect Classic Beef Bourguignon

• Sear beef in small batches to ensure proper browning and develop deep, rich flavors without overcrowding the pot.
• Choose chuck roast or beef chuck for maximum tenderness and rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture during slow cooking.
• Opt for low-sodium beef stock to control salt levels and allow better seasoning flexibility throughout cooking.
• Select waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold for maintaining shape and preventing disintegration during the long simmering process.
• Enhance the dish's depth by adding a splash of red wine instead of grape juice for traditional French authenticity.

Flavor Variations to Explore in Beef Bourguignon

• Vegetarian Bourguignon: Replace beef with hearty mushrooms like portobello or mixed wild mushrooms, using vegetable stock for a rich, plant-based version.
• Lamb Variation: Swap beef with tender lamb shoulder cubes for a different protein profile and deeper flavor complexity.
• Slow Cooker Method: Transfer all ingredients to a slow cooker after initial searing, cooking on low for 6-8 hours for a hands-off approach.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use cornstarch instead of traditional flour for thickening, ensuring all ingredients are certified gluten-free for sensitive diets.

Best Accompaniments with Classic Beef Bourguignon

• Cozy Family Dinner Centerpiece: Serve this classic beef bourguignon as the star of your family meal, placed in a large rustic serving dish with fresh parsley sprinkled on top, creating a warm and inviting centerpiece.
• Elegant Dinner Party Presentation: Plate individual portions over creamy mashed potatoes or buttery egg noodles, garnishing each plate with a delicate sprig of fresh thyme for a sophisticated touch.
• Rustic Countryside Comfort: Pack the stew in a hearty ceramic dish for a picnic or outdoor gathering, accompanied by crusty French bread to soak up the rich, flavorful sauce and enjoy the robust flavors of traditional French cuisine.

Easy Beef Bourguignon Recipe

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4.5 from 33 reviews

• Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Hearty beef bourguignon showcases French culinary mastery with tender meat braised in rich red wine sauce. Robust flavors and tender beef promise a memorable dining experience you’ll savor with each delicious bite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein:

• 2 pounds (907 grams) beef chuck, cut into 2-inch cubes

Vegetables:

• 2 medium onions, diced
• 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 pound (454 grams) baby potatoes, halved

Liquids and Seasonings:

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 cups beef stock
• 1 cup grape juice or pomegranate juice
• 1 cup water
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Preheat a Dutch oven to medium heat and warm olive oil until shimmering.
2. Carefully brown seasoned beef cubes in batches, creating a deep golden crust on all surfaces. Transfer seared meat to a separate plate.
3. Using the same pot, sauté chopped onions, carrots, and celery until they become translucent and slightly softened, approximately 4-5 minutes.
4. Introduce minced garlic and tomato paste, stirring vigorously to release aromatic flavors and prevent burning.
5. Reintroduce the seared beef to the vegetable mixture, creating layers of flavor.
6. Pour beef stock, grape juice, and water into the pot, ensuring all ingredients are submerged. Incorporate bay leaves and thyme for enhanced depth.
7. Bring liquid to a robust boil, then immediately reduce to a gentle simmer. Cover and let the stew develop rich flavors for 1.5-2 hours at low temperature, occasionally stirring to prevent sticking.
8. Add baby potatoes during the final 30 minutes of cooking, allowing them to become tender and absorb the surrounding sauce.
9. Remove bay leaves and assess seasoning, adjusting salt and pepper as needed. Sprinkle fresh parsley for a vibrant finishing touch before serving.

Notes

• Ensure beef is patted dry before searing to achieve a perfect golden-brown crust and develop rich, deep flavors.
• Choose chuck roast or beef brisket for maximum tenderness and succulent meat that falls apart easily.
• Use a heavy-bottomed Dutch oven to distribute heat evenly and prevent burning during the long, slow cooking process.
• For a lighter version, swap beef stock with low-sodium chicken broth and reduce the cooking oil by half.
• Create a gluten-free variation by using cornstarch instead of traditional flour for thickening and checking stock ingredients.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 2 hours
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: French

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 416 kcal
• Sugar: 5 g
• Sodium: 250 mg
• Fat: 22 g
• Saturated Fat: 6 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
• Trans Fat: 0.5 g
• Carbohydrates: 18 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 38 g
• Cholesterol: 115 mg