Beef Bourguignon (Julia Child Recipe)

This Beef Bourguignon (Julia Child Recipe) is a classic French dish that brings warmth and sophistication to your dining table. With tender beef simmered in rich, flavorful broth and aromatic vegetables, it’s perfect for family gatherings or cozy evenings at home. The unique combination of ingredients creates a comforting yet elegant meal that will impress any guest.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavors – The slow braising process infuses the beef with deep, complex flavors that are simply irresistible.
• Versatile Occasions – Ideal for both casual dinners and special celebrations, making it a great choice for any event.
• Comforting Texture – The tender meat paired with sautéed onions and mushrooms provides a delightful contrast in textures.
• Easily Scalable – You can easily adjust the recipe to feed a crowd or make it for an intimate dinner.
• Hearty & Satisfying – A perfect main course that fills you up and keeps you warm on cooler days.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this delicious Beef Bourguignon, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot
• Slotted spoon
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven – Provides even heat distribution for perfect braising.
• Slotted spoon – Helps remove cooked ingredients without excess fat, keeping your dish balanced.
• Wooden spoon – Ideal for stirring without damaging your cookware.

Ingredients

This iconic dish hails from the Burgundy region of France, where generations of cooks discovered that tough cuts of beef, when slowly braised in local apple vinegar with aromatic vegetables, create tender, deeply flavored results that define comfort food sophistication.

For the Beef Base

• 3 pounds chuck roast or bottom round, cut into 2-inch cubes
• 6 strips thick-cut Turkey Bacon, diced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (if needed)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

For the Aromatics

• 1 large yellow onion, sliced
• 2 medium carrots, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 3 tablespoons tomato paste
• 4 cloves garlic, minced

For the Braising Liquid

• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 bottle (750ml) dry red apple vinegar
• 2 cups beef broth, preferably low-sodium
• 2 bay leaves
• 4-5 fresh thyme sprigs (or 1 teaspoon dried)
• 3-4 fresh parsley sprigs

For the Garnish

• 1 pound small pearl onions, peeled
• 1 pound button or cremini mushrooms, quartered
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Fresh parsley for serving

How to Make Beef Bourguignon (Julia Child Recipe)

Step 1: Prepare the Turkey Bacon Base

Begin by heating your Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add diced Turkey Bacon and cook slowly until crispy and golden, about 8-10 minutes. The key here is rendering the fat gradually – this creates the flavorful foundation for your entire dish. Remove Turkey Bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the precious Turkey Bacon fat in the pot.

Step 2: Brown the Beef Properly

Pat beef cubes completely dry and season generously with salt and pepper. Working in batches to avoid crowding:
1. Brown beef pieces in the Turkey Bacon fat over medium-high heat.
2. Each piece should develop a rich, caramelized crust – this step creates deep, complex flavors that define exceptional bourguignon.
3. Don’t rush this process; proper browning takes about 12-15 minutes total.

Step 3: Build the Aromatic Base

Remove beef and add sliced onions and carrots to the same pot:
1. Cook until softened and lightly caramelized, about 8 minutes.
2. Add tomato paste and garlic, stirring constantly for another minute until fragrant.
3. Sprinkle flour over vegetables and cook, stirring for 2 minutes to eliminate raw flour taste.

Step 4: Create the Braising Liquid

Pour apple vinegar slowly into the pot:
1. Scrape up all those beautiful browned bits from the bottom – these concentrated flavors are liquid gold.
2. Add beef broth along with herbs.
3. Return browned beef and Turkey Bacon to the pot; add more broth if needed to just barely cover the meat.

Step 5: The Long, Slow Braise

Bring mixture to a gentle simmer:
1. Cover and transfer to a preheated 325°F oven.
2. Braise for 2 to 2½ hours, checking occasionally and adding liquid if needed.
3. The beef is ready when fork-tender and sauce has thickened enough to coat the back of a spoon.

Step 6: Prepare the Garnish

During the final hour of braising:
1. Sauté pearl onions in butter until golden and tender, about 15 minutes.
2. In a separate pan, cook mushrooms until golden brown and moisture has evaporated, about 10 minutes.
These components add textural contrast and fresh flavors to the rich stew.

Step 7: Finish and Rest

Remove bay leaves and herb stems:
1. Gently fold in sautéed onions and mushrooms.
2. Let bourguignon rest for 10 minutes before serving – this allows flavors to settle while achieving perfect sauce consistency.

Total Time: 3 hours 30 minutes
Nutrition Facts: Calories: 485 calories, Carbs: 12g, Protein: 42g, Fat: 28g, Fiber: 3g

How to Serve Beef Bourguignon (Julia Child Recipe)

Beef Bourguignon is a comforting and flavorful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you are hosting a dinner party or having a cozy family meal, here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

With Crusty Bread

• Pair your Beef Bourguignon with freshly baked crusty bread. This is perfect for soaking up the rich sauce and adds a wonderful texture to each bite.

Over Creamy Mashed Potatoes

• Serve Beef Bourguignon over creamy mashed potatoes for a classic combination. The buttery potatoes complement the savory sauce beautifully.

Accompanied by Egg Noodles

• Egg noodles provide a light, tender base for this hearty stew. Toss them lightly in butter before serving to enhance their flavor.

On a Bed of Rice

• A fluffy rice bed allows the flavors of the beef and sauce to shine through. Choose jasmine or basmati rice for added aroma and taste.

With Roasted Vegetables

• Roasted seasonal vegetables add color and nutrition to your plate. Consider carrots, Brussels sprouts, or parsnips, seasoned simply with olive oil and herbs.

Garnished with Fresh Parsley

• Finish your dish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley. This adds a pop of color and fresh flavor that brightens the rich notes of the stew.

How to Perfect Beef Bourguignon (Julia Child Recipe)

Achieving the perfect Beef Bourguignon requires attention to detail and patience in cooking. Keep these tips in mind for an exceptional dish.

• Use Quality Meat: Select well-marbled cuts like chuck roast or bottom round for best results. This ensures tenderness as it braises.

• Brown Well: Properly browning the beef is crucial for developing deep flavors. Don’t rush this process; let each piece get nicely caramelized.

• Control Your Heat: Maintain a gentle simmer during braising. Too high heat can make the meat tough, while too low may not develop rich flavors.

• Let It Rest: Allow your Beef Bourguignon to rest after cooking. This helps flavors meld together and enhances overall taste.

• Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning before serving. Sometimes just a pinch more salt or pepper can elevate the dish significantly.

• Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to add other herbs like rosemary or oregano for additional layers of flavor that complement the traditional thyme.

Best Side Dishes for Beef Bourguignon (Julia Child Recipe)

Pairing side dishes with Beef Bourguignon can enhance your meal further, creating a well-rounded dining experience. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide richness that balances the savory stew perfectly.

2. Green Beans Almondine: Lightly sautéed green beans topped with toasted almonds add crunch and freshness to your plate.

3. Ratatouille: This classic French vegetable dish brings vibrant colors and flavors that complement the heartiness of Beef Bourguignon.

4. Buttered Noodles: Simple buttered egg noodles offer a mild backdrop that allows the bourguignon’s richness to shine through.

5. Crusty Baguette: A sliced baguette is ideal for soaking up every drop of delicious sauce, making it an essential addition to any serving.

6. Cauliflower Gratin: Creamy cauliflower gratin provides a cheesy element that pairs wonderfully with the robust flavors of the beef stew.

7. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes contrasts nicely with savory notes of the bourguignon, adding depth to your meal.

8. Herbed Quinoa: Light and fluffy quinoa cooked with herbs offers a nutritious alternative that absorbs sauces beautifully while adding texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Beef Bourguignon (Julia Child Recipe), it’s easy to overlook key steps that can affect the final dish. Here are common mistakes to avoid:

• Skipping the Browning Step: Failing to properly brown the beef can lead to a lack of depth in flavor. Take your time with this step; aim for a rich, caramelized crust on each piece.

• Overcrowding the Pot: Cooking too much beef at once prevents proper browning and steaming occurs instead. Work in smaller batches to ensure even cooking and maximum flavor development.

• Ignoring the Herbs: Forgetting to add fresh herbs or letting them cook too long can diminish their flavor. Add herbs during braising for depth and fold in fresh ones just before serving for brightness.

• Not Adjusting Liquid Levels: If you don’t check the liquid levels during cooking, you risk drying out the meat. Add more broth or vinegar as needed to keep everything submerged.

• Rushing the Braising Process: Braising takes time, so don’t rush it! Allow at least 2 hours for the beef to become fork-tender and for flavors to meld beautifully.

• Neglecting Final Touches: Skipping sautéing pearl onions and mushrooms can lead to a less textured dish. These additions provide contrast and enhance overall presentation.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Beef Bourguignon in an airtight container.
• It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Allow it to cool completely before sealing the container.

Freezing Beef Bourguignon (Julia Child Recipe)

• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Beef Bourguignon can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Be sure to label containers with date and contents.

Reheating Beef Bourguignon (Julia Child Recipe)

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F. Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 30 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Transfer a portion into a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Add a splash of broth if it’s too thick.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Beef Bourguignon (Julia Child Recipe):

How long does Beef Bourguignon last in the fridge?

Beef Bourguignon will last up to 3 days when stored properly in an airtight container.

Can I substitute other meats in this recipe?

Yes, you can use lamb or turkey as alternatives if you prefer different flavors while keeping the rest of the recipe intact.

What is the best way to serve Beef Bourguignon?

This dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or over egg noodles for a comforting meal.

How do I know when my Beef Bourguignon is done?

The dish is ready when the beef is fork-tender and the sauce has thickened enough to coat a spoon well.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, letting it sit overnight enhances its flavors. Simply reheat before serving.

Final Thoughts

Beef Bourguignon (Julia Child Recipe) is a classic that offers rich flavors and comforting textures. This versatile dish allows for various customizations, whether adding different vegetables or adjusting seasonings. Give it a try and enjoy this delicious piece of French culinary history!

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Beef Bourguignon

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 4 hours
• Yield: Serves approximately 6

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Description

Indulge in the rich and comforting flavors of Beef Bourguignon, a classic French dish that transforms tough cuts of beef into tender morsels through a slow braise in a savory broth. This recipe, inspired by Julia Child, features succulent beef simmered with aromatic vegetables and herbs, creating a gourmet experience right at your dining table. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy evenings in, this hearty stew is sure to impress your guests while providing them with warmth and satisfaction.

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Ingredients

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• 3 pounds chuck roast or bottom round, cut into 2-inch cubes
• 6 strips thick-cut turkey bacon, diced
• 1 large yellow onion, sliced
• 2 medium carrots, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons tomato paste
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 750ml dry red apple vinegar
• 2 cups beef broth (preferably low-sodium)
• Fresh thyme sprigs and parsley for garnish

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Instructions

1. In a Dutch oven over medium heat, cook diced turkey bacon until crispy. Remove and set aside.
2. Brown the seasoned beef in the rendered fat until caramelized on all sides. Remove and set aside.
3. Sauté onions and carrots in the same pot until softened; add garlic and tomato paste.
4. Sprinkle flour over the mixture and cook for a couple of minutes before adding apple vinegar to deglaze the pot.
5. Stir in beef broth, return beef and turkey bacon to the pot along with herbs. Simmer gently before transferring to a preheated oven at 325°F for 2 to 2½ hours.
6. In the final hour, sauté pearl onions and mushrooms separately until golden brown. Fold into the stew before serving.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 210 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Braising
• Cuisine: French

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 485
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 720mg
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 42g
• Cholesterol: 120mg