Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe

As far as French cuisine goes, this Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe is a must-make! Tender beef swimming in a rich apple vinegar sauce makes it especially perfect for the holidays and any special occasion. The comforting flavors of this dish create a memorable meal that will impress your family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The combination of beef, vegetables, and herbs creates a delightful depth of flavor that warms the soul.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, this dish allows even novice cooks to shine in the kitchen.
• Perfect for Sharing: Serving up to six people, it’s an excellent choice for gatherings or family dinners.
• Versatile Ingredients: Substitute or add your favorite vegetables to make it your own while still keeping true to the classic recipe.
• Make Ahead: This dish tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prep or leftovers.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven
• Slotted spoon
• Silicone spatula
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven: This heavy pot is crucial for even cooking and helps develop flavors as you sauté and braise.
• Slotted spoon: Perfect for removing cooked ingredients without leaving behind any excess fat or liquid.
• Silicone spatula: Great for scraping up browned bits from the bottom of the pot, enhancing flavor in your dish.

Ingredients

To create this flavorful Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Meat and Bacon

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

For the Vegetables and Aromatics

• 1 yellow onion, chopped
• 3 large carrots, peeled and chopped
• 5 garlic cloves, minced
• 10 oz frozen pearl onions, defrosted and drained
• 16 oz cremini mushrooms, quartered

For the Sauce Base

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
• 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

Herbs and Seasoning

• 2 sprigs fresh thyme
• 2 bay leaves, dried or fresh
• kosher salt
• freshly cracked pepper

How to Make Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 F.

Step 2: Render the Turkey Bacon

Add the chopped Turkey Bacon to your 5 qt Dutch oven. Turn the heat to medium-low and cook until browned. Use a slotted spoon to remove it from the pan and transfer it to a small bowl.

Step 3: Sear the Beef

Season the cubes of beef with salt and pepper. Increase heat on the Dutch oven to medium-high. Sear beef on all sides until browned (you may need to do this in batches). Remove from pan.

Step 4: Sauté the Veggies

Decrease heat to medium. Add 2 tablespoons of butter. Add chopped onions and carrots; sauté for 2-3 minutes while stirring often. Add garlic; cook for another minute. Then add tomato paste; cook for another 2-3 minutes until darkened. Sprinkle flour over top; stir well.

Step 5: Add Vinegar, Stock, and Herbs

Pour in apple vinegar, scraping up any browned bits from bottom of pot with a silicone spatula. Add beef broth and bouillon; bring to simmer. Return beef and Turkey Bacon back along with thyme and bay leaves. Cover pot; transfer to oven for 2 1/2 hours.

Step 6: Add Mushrooms and Pearl Onions

Around the 2 1/2 hour mark, melt remaining butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add mushrooms; cook until browned. Then add pearl onions; cook for another 5 minutes until browned. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 7: Final Cooking

Remove from oven; add mushrooms and onions back into pot. Return to oven until beef is very tender (another 45-60 minutes). Let sit covered for 30 minutes before serving.

With these detailed instructions, you’re well on your way to creating a delicious Classic Beef Bourguignon that everyone will love!

How to Serve Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe

Serving your classic beef bourguignon can elevate the meal experience. Pair it with sides that complement its rich flavors and provide a delightful contrast in texture.

With Crusty Bread

• Enjoy slices of fresh, crusty bread to soak up the savory sauce. A baguette or rustic country loaf works perfectly.

Over Egg Noodles

• Serve the beef bourguignon over egg noodles for a hearty and comforting dish. The noodles absorb the sauce, making each bite flavorful.

With Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy mashed potatoes are an excellent companion. Their smooth texture balances the chunky beef and vegetables beautifully.

On a Bed of Rice

• Fluffy rice serves as a neutral base for this robust dish. Opt for jasmine or basmati rice for an aromatic touch.

Accompanied by a Green Salad

• A light green salad with a simple vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast. Choose mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers for color.

With Roasted Vegetables

• Roasted seasonal vegetables add both flavor and nutrition. Consider carrots, Brussels sprouts, or parsnips for a colorful side.

How to Perfect Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe

To ensure your classic beef bourguignon comes out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips:

• Choose Quality Meat: Use high-quality beef chuck for better flavor and tenderness. Look for well-marbled cuts to enhance the dish’s richness.

• Sear Properly: Don’t rush the searing process. A good sear creates depth of flavor from the caramelization, so take your time on medium-high heat.

• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh thyme and bay leaves significantly improve flavor compared to dried herbs. They add brightness to the rich sauce.

• Adjust Seasoning: Always taste before serving! Adjust salt and pepper to enhance the overall flavor profile of your dish.

• Let It Rest: Allowing the bourguignon to rest after cooking helps meld flavors together. Cover it and let it sit for about 30 minutes before serving.

• Experiment with Vinegar: While apple vinegar is traditional, try different varieties like red wine vinegar for unique flavor profiles in your dish.

Best Side Dishes for Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe

A well-rounded meal includes satisfying side dishes that pair nicely with classic beef bourguignon. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting side that enhances the rich sauce.

2. Roasted Root Vegetables: Carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes roasted until caramelized bring sweetness and color to your plate.

3. Buttery Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn drizzled with butter adds a pop of sweetness that contrasts beautifully with savory flavors.

4. Green Beans Almondine: Crisp-tender green beans sautéed with slivered almonds provide crunch and freshness alongside your dish.

5. Creamed Spinach: Rich creamed spinach offers a decadent touch that pairs well with hearty meat dishes.

6. Herbed Quinoa: Light and fluffy quinoa tossed with fresh herbs serves as a nutritious side while soaking up the delicious sauce.

7. Cauliflower Gratin: Creamy cauliflower baked in cheese sauce adds richness while keeping the meal balanced.

8. Ratatouille: This vegetable medley cooked in tomato sauce provides vibrant colors and flavors that complement beef bourguignon wonderfully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a classic beef bourguignon recipe, it’s easy to overlook certain details. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Bold seasoning: Failing to season the beef adequately before browning can lead to bland flavors. Always season with salt and pepper before cooking.
• Overcrowding the pan: Searing too many pieces of beef at once can prevent browning. Work in batches for a perfect sear.
• Ignoring simmering time: Skipping the long simmering time can result in tough meat. Allow sufficient time for the beef to become tender.
• Using low-quality broth: A rich broth enhances the flavor significantly. Use high-quality beef stock or homemade broth for the best taste.
• Not letting it rest: Serving immediately after cooking can make the dish less flavorful. Letting it rest allows flavors to meld beautifully.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow it to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Portion into smaller containers for easier thawing.

Reheating Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and reheat on medium power for 5-7 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until hot, about 10-15 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use other meats in this Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe?

You can substitute the beef with lamb or turkey if desired. Adjust cooking times as needed based on the meat used.

What should I serve with Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe?

This dish pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, crusty bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

How do I make this dish gluten-free?

To make this classic beef bourguignon recipe gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend.

Can I prepare Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe ahead of time?

Yes! This dish tastes even better the next day after flavors have melded. Prepare it a day in advance and reheat before serving.

Final Thoughts

This classic beef bourguignon recipe is not only rich and flavorful but also versatile enough for any occasion. Feel free to customize it by adding different vegetables or adjusting spices according to your taste preferences. Give it a try; you’ll love how comforting and satisfying it is!