Beef Bourguignon, a classic French dish that exudes warmth and comfort, is the perfect recipe to master for cozy evenings or special gatherings. This slow-cooked stew features tender beef, hearty vegetables, aromatic herbs, and a rich red wine sauce that will delight your taste buds with every savory bite. Let’s dive into the delicious world of Beef Bourguignon and learn how to create this culinary masterpiece in your own kitchen.
**Beef Bourguignon**
**Ingredients:**
– 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 2-inch cubes
– 6 slices of bacon, chopped
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 celery stalks, sliced
– 1 cup red wine (such as Burgundy)
– 2 cups beef broth
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 2 bay leaves
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it becomes crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set it aside, leaving the bacon fat in the pot.
3. Season the beef cubes with salt and pepper, then brown them in the bacon fat over medium-high heat until they are seared on all sides. Work in batches to avoid overcrowding the pot. Once browned, transfer the beef to a plate.
4. In the same pot, add the diced onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
5. Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir to coat, cooking for an additional minute to remove the raw flour taste.
6. Pour in the red wine, scraping the bottom of the pot to deglaze and pick up all the flavorful browned bits. Let it simmer for a few minutes to reduce slightly.
7. Add the beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, bay leaves, and the reserved bacon back into the pot. Return the browned beef cubes along with any accumulated juices to the pot. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
8. Cover the pot with a lid and transfer it to the preheated oven. Let it cook for about 2 to 2.5 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender.
9. Once the beef is done, remove the pot from the oven and stir in the butter to enrich the sauce. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
10. Serve the Beef Bourguignon hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley, alongside crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or buttered noodles to soak up the delicious sauce.
Beef Bourguignon is a labor of love that rewards you with a dish that is both hearty and elegant. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, creating a meal that is sure to impress your family and guests. So, roll up your sleeves, pour yourself a glass of red wine, and enjoy the delightful experience of making this classic French stew in your own kitchen. Bon appétit!
