If there’s one dish that epitomizes the art of slow cooking, it’s Beef Bourguignon (Bœuf Bourguignon). This traditional French stew transforms humble ingredients into a luxurious meal, perfect for a hearty dinner on a chilly evening. Tender chunks of beef, simmered in red wine with aromatic vegetables and herbs, create a dish that’s both rustic and refined.
What is Beef Bourguignon?
Originating from the Burgundy region of France, Beef Bourguignon is a braised beef dish cooked in red wine (Burgundy wine being the classic choice) with onions, carrots, garlic, and mushrooms. It’s a dish steeped in history, traditionally prepared by families as a way to tenderize tough cuts of meat through slow cooking.
Why You’ll Love Beef Bourguignon
- Rich and Flavorful: The long cooking time allows the wine and aromatics to infuse every bite.
- Comfort Food Elegance: It’s hearty yet sophisticated, perfect for dinner parties or cozy nights in.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: The flavors deepen overnight, making it ideal for meal prepping.
- One-Pot Wonder: A complete meal with minimal cleanup required.
Ingredients for Beef Bourguignon
For the Beef:
- 2 lbs (900g) beef chuck or stewing beef, cut into 2-inch chunks
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
For the Stew:
- 4 oz (115g) bacon, diced
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups red wine (Burgundy or Pinot Noir recommended)
- 1½ cups beef stock
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 bay leaf
- 4–5 fresh thyme sprigs
- 8 oz (225g) mushrooms, halved or quartered
- 12 pearl onions, peeled (optional)
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
How to Make Beef Bourguignon
1. Prepare the Beef
- Pat the beef chunks dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper.
- Toss the beef in flour, shaking off any excess.
2. Brown the Beef
- Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Sear the beef in batches until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
3. Cook the Bacon and Vegetables
- In the same pot, cook the diced bacon until crispy. Remove and set aside.
- Add carrots and onions to the rendered fat, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Build the Stew Base
- Return the beef and bacon to the pot.
- Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute.
- Pour in the red wine, scraping up browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Add the beef stock, bay leaf, and thyme.
5. Simmer the Stew
- Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and cook for 2–3 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beef is fork-tender.
6. Add Mushrooms and Onions
- In a skillet, melt butter and sauté the mushrooms and pearl onions until golden brown.
- Add them to the stew during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Beef Bourguignon pairs wonderfully with:
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery, they soak up the rich sauce beautifully.
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for scooping up every last drop.
- Egg Noodles or Rice: Classic and comforting options to accompany the stew.
- Roasted Vegetables: Add a side of roasted root vegetables for extra flavor and nutrition.
Tips for the Best Beef Bourguignon
- Choose the Right Wine: Use a good-quality dry red wine, preferably Burgundy or Pinot Noir.
- Cook Low and Slow: The longer it simmers, the better the flavors meld and the beef tenderizes.
- Don’t Skip Browning: Searing the beef and bacon adds depth to the dish.
- Thicken as Needed: If the sauce is too thin, simmer uncovered for the last 20 minutes to reduce it.
Why Beef Bourguignon is a Dinner Showstopper
- Rich Depth of Flavor: The wine, herbs, and aromatics create a stew that’s layered and complex.
- Comforting Yet Elegant: Ideal for both casual dinners and special occasions.
- Versatile: It pairs with a variety of sides, from creamy potatoes to fresh bread.
- Leftovers That Shine: The stew tastes even better the next day, making it great for meal prepping.
Conclusion
Beef Bourguignon is a dish that’s more than just food—it’s an experience. From the aromatic simmering pot to the first flavorful bite, it’s a meal that warms the soul and delights the palate. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or new to French cuisine, this dish promises a satisfying culinary journey.
