Beef Bourguignon: A Classic French Dish Perfect for Cozy Nights

Introduction

Beef Bourguignon is a classic French dish that is perfect for cozy nights in. This hearty stew is made with beef that has been slowly cooked in red wine, bacon, onions, and carrots, resulting in a rich and flavorful meal that is sure to warm you up from the inside out. In this blog post, we will be sharing an easy-to-follow Beef Bourguignon recipe that is perfect for both novice and experienced cooks alike.

Ingredients

• 1 kg beef chuck roast, cut into 2-inch cubes
• 200 g bacon, chopped
• 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 large onion, diced
• 4 large carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 cups red wine
• 2 cups beef broth
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. In a large Dutch oven, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside.

3. Pat the beef dry with paper towels and season with salt and black pepper. In the same Dutch oven, brown the beef in batches over medium-high heat until browned on all sides. Remove the beef with a slotted spoon and set aside.

4. Add the butter to the Dutch oven and melt over medium heat. Add the garlic and onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the carrots and cook for another 5 minutes.

5. Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir well to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the flour is lightly browned.

6. Gradually add the red wine and beef broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Stir in the tomato paste, bay leaves, thyme, and the reserved bacon and beef.

7. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover and transfer the Dutch oven to the oven. Cook for 2 1/2 to 3 hours, or until the beef is tender.

8. Discard the bay leaves and serve the beef bourguignon hot with crusty bread or mashed potatoes.

Vegetarian/Vegan version

For a vegetarian or vegan version of this dish, simply replace the beef with mushrooms or tofu. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth and omit the bacon. Follow the same cooking instructions as above, but reduce the cooking time to 1 1/2 to 2 hours.

Variations

• Add pearl onions or mushrooms to the stew for extra flavor and texture.
• Serve the beef bourguignon over egg noodles or rice instead of bread or potatoes.
• Use a slow cooker instead of the oven for an even easier cooking process.
• Substitute the red wine with beef broth for a non-alcoholic version of the dish.

Conclusion

Beef Bourguignon is a classic French dish that is perfect for cozy nights in. With this easy-to-follow recipe, you can make this hearty and delicious stew in the comfort of your own home. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced cook, this recipe is sure to impress. So grab a glass of red wine, put on some music, and get cooking!

FAQ

What is Beef Bourguignon?

Beef Bourguignon is a classic French dish made with beef, red wine, bacon, and vegetables such as onions, carrots, and mushrooms.

What cut of beef is best for Beef Bourguignon?

The best cut of beef for Beef Bourguignon is chuck roast, which is a tough but flavorful cut that becomes tender and delicious when cooked slowly in the stew.

Can I use white wine instead of red wine?

No, you should use red wine for Beef Bourguignon. The acidity and tannins in red wine help to break down the tough fibers in the beef and add depth of flavor to the dish.

Can I make Beef Bourguignon in advance?

Yes, you can make Beef Bourguignon in advance. In fact, it often tastes better the next day as the flavors have had time to meld together. Simply reheat the stew gently over low heat.

What can I serve with Beef Bourguignon?

Beef Bourguignon pairs well with crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or egg noodles. You can also serve it with a simple green salad.

Can I freeze Beef Bourguignon?

Yes, you can freeze Beef Bourguignon for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

How long should I cook Beef Bourguignon?

Beef Bourguignon should be cooked for at least 2 hours over low heat, or until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded together. You can also cook it in a slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours.

Can I make Beef Bourguignon in a pressure cooker?

Yes, you can make Beef Bourguignon in a pressure cooker. Follow your pressure cooker’s instructions on cooking times and release methods.

Can I use vegetable broth instead of beef broth?

No, you should use beef broth for Beef Bourguignon. The rich flavor of beef broth adds depth to the stew that vegetable broth cannot provide.

What wine should I use for Beef Bourguignon?

You should use a full-bodied, dry red wine such as Burgundy, Pinot Noir, or Cabernet Sauvignon for Beef Bourguignon. Avoid using sweet or fruity wines.