Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe

As far as French cuisine goes, this classic beef bourguignon recipe is a must-make! Tender beef simmered in a rich apple vinegar sauce is perfect for festive dinners or cozy gatherings. This dish stands out due to its deep flavors and comforting aromas, making it a fantastic choice for special occasions or a hearty weeknight meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The combination of tender beef and bold apple vinegar creates an unforgettable taste.
• Perfect for Entertaining: Impress your guests with this classic French dish that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
• Comfort Food: Enjoy the warmth and satisfaction of this hearty meal, ideal for chilly evenings.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, you can create a gourmet dish without stress.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: This dish tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep.

Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools can make cooking this classic beef bourguignon recipe easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 5 qt Dutch oven
• Silicone spoon
• Skillet
• Slotted spoon
• Chopping board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• 5 qt Dutch oven: This heavy pot retains heat well, ensuring even cooking for your beef bourguignon.
• Silicone spoon: Ideal for scraping up browned bits from the bottom of the pot without scratching it.
• Skillet: Perfect for sautéing mushrooms and pearl onions to add depth to your dish.

Ingredients

For the Meat and Base

• 5 strips Turkey Bacon, cut into 1 pieces
• 3 1/2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 2 pieces

For the Vegetables

• 1 yellow onion, chopped
• 3 large carrots, peeled and chopped
• 5 garlic cloves, minced

For Flavoring

• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups Burgundy apple vinegar, or other bold red 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 Garnish

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

How to Make Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready by the time you’re finished prepping your ingredients.

Step 2: Render the Turkey Bacon

• Add the chopped Turkey Bacon to your Dutch oven.
• Turn the heat to medium-low and cook until browned, stirring occasionally.
• Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked Turkey Bacon to a small bowl.

Step 3: Sear the Beef

• Season beef cubes with salt and pepper.
• Increase heat on the Dutch oven to medium-high.
• Sear beef on all sides until browned, doing this in batches if necessary.
• Remove the beef from the pan once seared.

Step 4: Sauté the Veggies

• Lower heat to medium; add 2 tablespoons of butter to the pot.
• Add chopped onions and carrots; sauté for 2–3 minutes while stirring.
• Add minced garlic; cook for another minute.
• Stir in tomato paste; cook until darkened in color (about 2–3 minutes).
• Sprinkle flour over vegetables; stir well and cook for another 2–3 minutes.

Step 5: Add Vinegar, Stock, and Herbs

• Pour apple vinegar into the pot, scraping up any browned bits with a silicone spoon.
• Add beef stock and bouillon; bring mixture to a simmer.
• Return seared beef and Turkey Bacon back into the pot along with thyme and bay leaves.
• Cover pot and transfer it into preheated oven. Cook for 2 1/2 hours.

Step 6: Add Mushrooms and Pearl Onions

Around the last half hour of cooking:
* Melt remaining butter in skillet over medium-high heat.
* Once hot, add quartered mushrooms; cook until browned.
* Add pearl onions; continue cooking for an additional five minutes until browned. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 7: Final Cook & Serve

Remove from oven; stir in sautéed mushrooms and onions. Cover again and return to oven until beef is very tender (another 45–60 minutes). Remove from oven and let sit covered for about 30 minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious classic beef bourguignon!

How to Serve Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe

Serving your classic beef bourguignon recipe is an opportunity to elevate the dining experience. This dish is rich and hearty, making it perfect for gatherings or special occasions. Here are some delightful serving suggestions.

With Crusty Bread

• Serve slices of crusty baguette or sourdough on the side for dipping into the flavorful sauce.

Over Mashed Potatoes

• Ladle the beef bourguignon over creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the savory sauce.

Accompanied by Buttered Noodles

• Toss cooked egg noodles in butter and parsley, then serve beneath the stew for a comforting meal.

With a Fresh Green Salad

• A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette balances the richness of the main dish.

Paired with Roasted Vegetables

• Roasted seasonal vegetables add color and texture to the plate, enhancing both flavor and presentation.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or thyme on top just before serving for an extra pop of color and freshness.

How to Perfect Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe

Perfecting this classic beef bourguignon recipe takes time and attention to detail. Follow these tips to enhance your dish further.

• Use Quality Ingredients: High-quality beef and fresh vegetables will significantly improve the flavor of your stew.

• Brown Meat Properly: Ensure you sear the beef until browned on all sides for maximum flavor development.

• Don’t Rush Cooking Time: Allowing the beef to cook slowly ensures it becomes tender and absorbs all the flavors from the sauce.

• Adjust Seasoning: Taste your dish towards the end of cooking; adding salt and pepper can elevate its overall flavor.

• Let It Rest: Allowing your stew to sit covered after cooking helps meld all flavors together, making every bite delicious.

• Experiment with Herbs: Try adding different herbs like rosemary or bay leaves for a unique twist on traditional flavor profiles.

Best Side Dishes for Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your classic beef bourguignon recipe can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options that complement this hearty dish perfectly.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with garlic create a smooth base for absorbing the rich sauce.
2. Roasted Root Vegetables: A medley of carrots, parsnips, and potatoes roasted until caramelized adds sweetness and texture.
3. Green Beans Almondine: Lightly sautéed green beans topped with toasted almonds provide a crunchy contrast.
4. Herbed Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice cooked with herbs offers a simple yet flavorful accompaniment that absorbs juices well.
5. Cauliflower Gratin: A cheesy cauliflower bake provides a creamy side that pairs beautifully with beef.
6. Crispy Polenta Cakes: These golden cakes are great for soaking up sauce while adding a delightful crunch.
7. Buttery Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter gives a fresh touch to balance out the rich flavors of beef bourguignon.
8. Simple Arugula Salad: A peppery arugula salad dressed lightly enhances freshness through its crispness against hearty flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a classic beef bourguignon recipe, it’s easy to overlook a few key details. Here are some common mistakes to help you achieve the best results.

• Overcrowding the Pan: Searing your beef in batches is crucial. If the pan is too crowded, the meat will steam instead of brown, resulting in less flavor.
• Neglecting the Browning Step: Properly browning both the beef and vegetables enhances the depth of flavor. Take your time to achieve a nice golden color before moving on to the next steps.
• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: The taste of your beef bourguignon greatly depends on ingredient quality. Opt for good quality beef chuck and fresh vegetables for the best outcome.
• Skipping the Marinade: While this recipe doesn’t require marinating, allowing flavors to meld by letting it sit overnight can enhance taste. Consider prepping ahead of time for richer flavor.
• Not Adjusting Seasoning: Always taste and adjust seasoning before finishing cooking. This ensures that every bite is perfectly seasoned and flavorful.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe

• Freeze in a heavy-duty freezer bag or airtight container for up to 3 months.
• Divide into portions for easier thawing.

Reheating Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until heated through, about 30 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals (1-2 minutes) until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making this classic beef bourguignon recipe.

What cut of beef is best for Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe?

Chuck roast is ideal due to its rich flavor and tenderness when slow-cooked.

Can I make this Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe ahead of time?

Yes! This dish tastes even better the next day as flavors continue to meld. Just reheat before serving.

What can I serve with Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe?

Serve it with crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or noodles that absorb the delicious sauce.

Can I substitute any ingredients?

Absolutely! Feel free to use vegetable stock instead of beef stock or add different vegetables based on your preference.

Final Thoughts

This classic beef bourguignon recipe offers deep flavors and tender meat that is perfect for special occasions or cozy family dinners. Its versatility allows for various customizations based on what you have at hand. We encourage you to try out this comforting dish and enjoy its rich taste!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Classic Beef Bourguignon

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 3 hours 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

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Description

Indulge in the rich flavors of this Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe, a timeless French stew that combines tender beef and an aromatic apple vinegar sauce. Perfect for any gathering or cozy dinner at home, this dish offers a delightful balance of savory notes and comforting textures. With its deep flavors and inviting aroma, it’s sure to impress family and friends alike. Easy to prepare yet gourmet in presentation, this hearty meal is an ideal choice for chilly evenings or special occasions. Let the slow-cooking magic transform simple ingredients into a memorable feast.

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Ingredients

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• 3 1/2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 2" pieces
• 5 strips turkey bacon, cut into 1" pieces
• 1 yellow onion, chopped
• 3 large carrots, peeled and chopped
• 5 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups bold red apple vinegar
• 2 cups beef stock
• Fresh thyme
• Bay leaves

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a Dutch oven over medium-low heat, cook turkey bacon until browned; set aside.
3. Season beef with salt and pepper. Increase heat to medium-high and sear beef until browned on all sides; remove from pan.
4. Sauté onions and carrots in butter for 2–3 minutes; add garlic and cook for another minute.
5. Stir in tomato paste and flour; cook until darkened (about 3 minutes).
6. Add apple vinegar to deglaze the pot, then return beef and bacon along with stock, thyme, and bay leaves. Cover and bake for 2 1/2 hours.
7. In the last half hour, sauté mushrooms and pearl onions until browned; stir into stew before finishing cooking.
8. Let sit covered for about 30 minutes before serving.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 3 hours
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: French

Nutrition

• Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 460
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 640mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 35g
• Cholesterol: 110mg