Beef Burgundy

Beef Burgundy, also known as Boeuf Bourguignon, is a classic French dish that is perfect for cozy evenings and special occasions. This hearty stew features tender beef simmered in a rich red wine sauce, along with aromatic herbs and vegetables that create a symphony of flavors. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply treat yourself to a delicious meal, Beef Burgundy is a timeless recipe that will surely become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.

**Beef Burgundy**

**Ingredients:**
– 2 pounds stewing beef, cut into chunks
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, sliced
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
– 2 cups red wine (such as Burgundy or Pinot Noir)
– 2 cups beef broth
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 2 bay leaves
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
– Fresh parsley for garnish

**Instructions:**

1. Heat a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil to the pot.
2. Season the beef chunks with salt and pepper. Working in batches, brown the beef on all sides in the hot pot. Remove the beef and set aside.
3. In the same pot, add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook until the vegetables are softened and aromatic, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the sliced mushrooms to the pot and cook until they are golden brown and have released their juices.
5. Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir to combine. Cook for another minute to get rid of the raw flour taste.
6. Return the browned beef to the pot. Pour in the red wine and beef broth, stirring to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
7. Stir in the tomato paste, bay leaves, and dried thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and cook for 2-3 hours, or until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded together.
9. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Remove the bay leaves before serving.
10. Serve the Beef Burgundy hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley. This dish pairs perfectly with crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or buttered noodles.

For a truly authentic experience, consider serving this Beef Burgundy with a glass of red wine from the Burgundy region of France. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to develop and intensify, resulting in a dish that is rich, savory, and deeply satisfying. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a comforting meal, Beef Burgundy is sure to delight your taste buds and warm your soul. Enjoy the process of preparing this classic French dish and savor the delicious reward at the end of your culinary journey.