As far as French cuisine goes, this classic beef bourguignon recipe is a must-make! Tender beef swimming in a rich apple vinegar sauce is especially perfect for the holidays. This dish brings warmth and comfort to any gathering, making it suitable for family dinners or special occasions. The depth of flavor and satisfying texture will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich Flavor: The combination of tender beef and aromatic vegetables creates a dish bursting with taste.
- Perfect for Gatherings: It’s an impressive meal that serves six, ideal for family gatherings or dinner parties.
- One-Pot Wonder: Prepare everything in one pot, making cleanup easy while enjoying rich flavors.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or herbs.
- Slow-Cooked Goodness: The slow cooking process ensures the beef becomes incredibly tender and infused with flavor.
Tools and Preparation
To make this classic beef bourguignon recipe, having the right tools will streamline your cooking process. Here are some essential tools you will need.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Dutch oven
- Slotted spoon
- Silicone spatula
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Dutch oven: Ideal for slow cooking, it retains heat well and distributes it evenly.
- Slotted spoon: Perfect for removing cooked ingredients without transferring excess fat or liquid.
- Silicone spatula: Helps scrape up browned bits from the bottom of the pot for added flavor.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this delicious classic beef bourguignon recipe:
For the Beef Bourguignon
- 5 strips Turkey Bacon, cut into 1 pieces
- 3 1/2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 2 pieces
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 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 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
- 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 prepare for slow cooking.
Step 2: Render the Turkey Bacon
- Add the chopped Turkey Bacon to your Dutch oven.
- Turn the heat to medium-low and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned.
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the Turkey Bacon from the pan and transfer it to a small bowl.
Step 3: Sear the Beef
- Season the cubes of beef with kosher salt and freshly cracked pepper.
- Increase heat to medium-high and sear the beef on all sides until browned, working in batches if needed.
- Remove the beef from the pan once seared.
Step 4: Sauté the Veggies
- Decrease heat to medium and add 2 tablespoons of butter.
- Add chopped onions and carrots; sauté for 2-3 minutes while stirring often.
- Stir in minced garlic; cook for another minute.
- Add tomato paste; cook for 2-3 minutes until darkened in color.
- Sprinkle flour over vegetables; stir well to incorporate and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Step 5: Add Vinegar, Stock, and Herbs
- Pour apple vinegar into the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom with a silicone spatula.
- Add in beef stock and bouillon; bring to a simmer.
- Return seared beef and Turkey Bacon back into the pot along with thyme and bay leaves.
- Cover pot with a lid and transfer it to the preheated oven; cook for about 2 ½ hours.
Step 6: Add Mushrooms and Pearl Onions
- At around the 2½ hour mark, melt remaining butter in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Once hot, add quartered mushrooms; sauté until browned.
- Add pearl onions; cook for another 5 minutes until browned; season with salt and pepper.
Step 7: Final Cooking Phase
- Remove beef bourguignon from oven; add sautéed mushrooms and onions back into pot.
- Return covered pot to oven; cook until beef is very tender (another 45-60 minutes).
- Once done, let sit covered for about 30 minutes before serving.
This classic beef bourguignon recipe will surely impress your guests with its rich flavors and hearty nature! Enjoy every bite!
How to Serve Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe
This classic beef bourguignon recipe is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways. Pairing it with the right accompaniments enhances its rich flavors and creates a memorable dining experience.
With Crusty Bread
- Freshly baked baguette or sourdough bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
Over Mashed Potatoes
- Creamy mashed potatoes provide a comforting base that complements the tender beef and sauce beautifully.
Accompanied by Green Beans
- Steamed or sautéed green beans add a pop of color and freshness to your plate, balancing the richness of the dish.
Served with a Side Salad
- A light, crisp salad with vinaigrette can offer a refreshing contrast to the hearty beef bourguignon.
On a Bed of Egg Noodles
- Soft egg noodles are an excellent vehicle for this dish, making every bite satisfying and filling.
With Roasted Vegetables
- Roasted seasonal vegetables bring out natural sweetness while adding texture to the meal.
How to Perfect Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe
Achieving an exceptional classic beef bourguignon requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your dish:
- Select Quality Beef: Use well-marbled beef chuck for tenderness and rich flavor during cooking.
- Brown Properly: Ensure you sear the beef cubes until browned; this adds depth to the overall taste.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh thyme and bay leaves contribute aromatic notes that enhance the flavor profile.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the dish to rest before serving helps meld flavors and improves texture.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste and tweak salt and pepper before serving for optimal seasoning.
- Incorporate Variations: Experiment with different vegetables like parsnips or turnips for added interest.
Best Side Dishes for Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe
Pairing your classic beef bourguignon with complementary side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options:
Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic create a perfect match for soaking up flavorful juices.Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Crispy Brussels sprouts add crunch and bitterness, balancing the richness of the beef.Buttery Corn on the Cob
Sweet corn on the cob brings a delightful contrast to your savory main dish.Herbed Rice Pilaf
Fluffy rice pilaf made with herbs provides an aromatic base that pairs well with sauces.Grilled Asparagus
Lightly charred asparagus offers brightness and complements heavier dishes nicely.Crispy Polenta Fries
Polenta fries make for a unique side, adding texture and absorbing delicious gravy effortlessly.Ratatouille
This vegetable medley introduces fresh flavors that harmonize beautifully with beef bourguignon.Creamy Coleslaw
A crunchy coleslaw adds freshness and tang, enhancing each bite of your hearty meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making the classic beef bourguignon recipe, it’s easy to encounter some common pitfalls. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:
Skipping the Searing: Many people skip this step, but searing the beef adds depth of flavor. Always take the time to brown the meat before adding other ingredients.
Overcrowding the Pan: Adding too much beef at once can lower the pan’s temperature and result in steaming rather than browning. Cook in batches to ensure even cooking.
Neglecting Fresh Herbs: Using dried herbs instead of fresh can lead to a lack of vibrant flavors. Always opt for fresh thyme or bay leaves for the best taste.
Using Low-Quality Stock: The broth is a key ingredient in this recipe. Using low-quality or overly salty stock can ruin the dish’s flavor. Choose a good-quality beef stock for optimal results.
Not Allowing Enough Cooking Time: Rushing the cooking process can lead to tough beef. Ensure you allow enough time for the dish to simmer and develop its rich flavors.
Skipping Rest Time: Serving immediately after cooking can result in tough meat. Letting it rest helps enhance flavors and tenderness.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe
- Place in freezer-safe containers.
- Can be frozen for up to 3 months; leave space for expansion.
Reheating Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and cover with foil; heat until warmed through.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe container; heat in intervals, stirring between each.
- Stovetop: Place in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a classic beef bourguignon recipe?
The classic beef bourguignon recipe is a French stew made with tender beef, aromatic vegetables, and a rich sauce, typically made with red wine and herbs.
How long does it take to make classic beef bourguignon?
This hearty dish takes about 4 hours, including preparation and cooking times, ensuring deep flavors develop throughout the process.
Can I customize my classic beef bourguignon recipe?
Absolutely! You can add other vegetables like potatoes or parsnips or adjust spices to fit your personal taste preferences.
What can I serve with classic beef bourguignon?
This dish pairs well with crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or wide noodles that soak up the delicious sauce beautifully.
Final Thoughts
This classic beef bourguignon recipe is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. Perfect for family gatherings or special occasions, it allows room for creativity with added ingredients or sides. We encourage you to try this delightful dish that promises warmth and satisfaction!
Classic Beef Bourguignon
Indulge in the comforting warmth of our Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe, a French culinary classic that brings together tender beef and vibrant vegetables simmered until perfectly rich and flavorful. This hearty dish is perfect for family gatherings or special occasions, promising to impress every guest at your table. With its one-pot preparation, cleanup is a breeze while the slow-cooked goodness ensures the beef is melt-in-your-mouth tender. Enhance your dining experience by serving it over creamy mashed potatoes or alongside crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately six people 1x
Ingredients
- 3 ½ lbs beef chuck, cut into 2" pieces
- 5 strips turkey bacon, cut into 1" pieces
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 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 and bay leaves
- Frozen pearl onions
- Cremini mushrooms
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a Dutch oven over medium-low heat, cook turkey bacon until browned. Remove and set aside.
- Season beef with salt and pepper; sear in the same pot until browned on all sides. Remove.
- Sauté onions and carrots in butter for 2-3 minutes, add garlic, then tomato paste; cook for an additional few minutes.
- Sprinkle flour over veggies; stir well.
- Add vinegar while scraping up browned bits; pour in beef stock and return the beef and bacon along with herbs.
- Cover and bake for about 2½ hours.
- Sauté mushrooms and pearl onions in remaining butter; add to pot for final cooking phase (45-60 minutes).
- Let rest before serving.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Keywords: Feel free to customize with other favorite vegetables like parsnips or turnips. Letting the dish rest after cooking enhances flavor melding.