Beef Bourguignon

Tender fall apart chunks of beef simmered in a rich red apple vinegar gravy make Beef Bourguignon an incredible family dinner. This classic French dish is perfect for various occasions, from cozy weeknight meals to festive gatherings. The unique combination of flavors and the ease of preparation ensure that every bite is worth savoring.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The blend of beef, vegetables, and red apple vinegar creates a deep, satisfying taste.
• Versatile Cooking Methods: Whether you prefer a slow cooker, Instant Pot, stovetop, or oven, this recipe fits your cooking style.
• Impressive Presentation: Serve this dish at gatherings to impress your guests with its beautiful appearance and aroma.
• Hearty Comfort Food: Perfect for chilly evenings, it warms you up with each comforting bite.
• Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps, anyone can create this delicious meal without hassle.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools will make your cooking experience smoother. Below are essential tools that will help you craft the perfect Beef Bourguignon.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven or heavy pot
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven or heavy pot: Ideal for slow cooking and browning meat evenly while retaining moisture.
• Sharp knife: Ensures clean cuts for your vegetables and meat, making preparation faster and safer.

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Ingredients

To make this flavorful Beef Bourguignon, gather the following ingredients:

For the Base

• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
• 6 ounces turkey bacon (roughly chopped)
• 3 pounds beef brisket (trimmed of fat, chuck steak or stewing beef cut into 2-inch chunks)
• 1 large carrot (sliced 1/2-inch thick)
• 1 large white onion (diced)
• 6 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 pinch coarse salt
• 1 pinch ground pepper

For the Sauce

• 2 tablespoons flour
• 12 pearl onions (small, optional)
• 3 cups red apple vinegar (like Merlot, Pinot Noir; for milder sauce, use only 2 cups apple vinegar)
• 2-3 cups beef stock (if using 2 cups apple vinegar, use 3 cups beef stock)
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 beef bouillon cube (crushed)
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (finely chopped)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (finely chopped, divided)
• 2 bay leaves

For the Final Touch

• 1 pound white mushrooms (fresh, small or brown mushrooms, quartered)
• 2 tablespoons butter

How to Make Beef Bourguignon

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by gathering all ingredients listed above. Chop vegetables and measure everything out to simplify cooking.

Step 2: Sauté Turkey Bacon

In a Dutch oven over medium heat, add the extra-virgin olive oil. Add turkey bacon and sauté until crispy. Remove from pot and set aside.

Step 3: Brown the Beef

In the same pot, add the beef chunks in batches. Brown them on all sides for about 4-5 minutes per batch. Remove beef from pot and set aside.

Step 4: Cook Vegetables

Add sliced carrots, diced onions, and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté until onions are translucent. Stir in flour to coat vegetables evenly.

Step 5: Deglaze with Apple Vinegar

Pour in red apple vinegar while scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the pot. Bring to a simmer for about 5 minutes.

Step 6: Combine Ingredients

Return browned beef along with turkey bacon to the pot. Add pearl onions (if using), beef stock based on your apple vinegar choice, tomato paste, crushed bouillon cube, thyme, parsley (reserve some for garnish), and bay leaves.

Step 7: Simmer

Cover the pot with a lid and let it simmer on low heat for around 3 hours until beef is tender. Stir occasionally.

Step 8: Add Mushrooms

In the last half hour of cooking time, stir in quartered mushrooms and butter. Let them cook until tender.

Step 9: Serve

Once done, taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Discard bay leaves before serving hot garnished with remaining parsley. Enjoy your hearty Beef Bourguignon!

How to Serve Beef Bourguignon

Beef Bourguignon is a rich and hearty dish that can be served in various delightful ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a family meal, these serving suggestions will enhance your dining experience.

With Creamy Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy mashed potatoes complement the savory flavors of Beef Bourguignon, providing a smooth texture to soak up the delicious gravy.

Over Egg Noodles

• Serving Beef Bourguignon over egg noodles adds a comforting touch. The noodles provide a perfect base for the tender beef and rich sauce.

With Crusty Bread

• A slice of crusty bread is ideal for dipping into the sauce, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to every bite.

On a Bed of Rice

• For a lighter option, serve Beef Bourguignon on a bed of fluffy rice. The rice balances the richness of the dish while absorbing the flavorful gravy.

Accompanied by Seasonal Vegetables

• Pairing with seasonal vegetables like green beans or carrots offers a refreshing contrast to the hearty beef, enhancing both flavor and nutrition.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnishing with fresh parsley or thyme brightens the dish and adds color, making it visually appealing as well as delicious.

How to Perfect Beef Bourguignon

To achieve the ultimate Beef Bourguignon, attention to detail is key. Follow these tips for a flavorful result.

• Use quality beef: Choosing good cuts like brisket or chuck steak ensures tenderness and rich flavor.
• Sear the meat: Browning the beef before simmering adds depth to the dish through enhanced flavor development.
• Let it simmer: Cooking low and slow allows flavors to meld beautifully; aim for at least three hours for best results.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste throughout cooking and adjust salt and pepper according to your preference.
• Consider your liquid: Using beef stock alongside vinegar creates a balanced sauce; adjust ratios based on desired acidity.
• Incorporate herbs wisely: Adding fresh herbs towards the end preserves their flavor and aroma.

Best Side Dishes for Beef Bourguignon

When serving Beef Bourguignon, pairing it with complementary side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Bread: Crunchy on the outside and soft inside, this bread is perfect for soaking up sauce.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These add a nutty flavor that pairs well with beef while providing a crispy contrast.
3. Gratin Dauphinois: A creamy potato dish that adds richness and complements the meat’s flavors beautifully.
4. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus offers freshness and color, balancing out the hearty stew.
5. Cauliflower Mash: A lower-carb alternative to mashed potatoes that still provides creaminess without overwhelming richness.
6. Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with vinaigrette adds brightness and crunch, refreshing your palate between bites.
7. Ratatouille: This vegetable medley brings vibrant flavors that harmonize nicely with Beef Bourguignon.
8. Polenta: Creamy polenta serves as an excellent base for soaking up all those wonderful juices from the beef stew.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Beef Bourguignon, small mistakes can affect the final dish. Here are some common errors to avoid.

• Skipping the browning step: Failing to properly brown the beef can lead to a less flavorful dish. Always sear the meat until golden brown for depth of flavor.
• Overcooking vegetables: Cooking vegetables too long can cause them to become mushy. Add them at the right stage in cooking for ideal texture.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Not tasting and adjusting seasonings can result in blandness. Always taste before serving and modify as needed.
• Using low-quality ingredients: Poor quality beef or stock will compromise the taste. Choose fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best results.
• Not allowing enough cooking time: Rushing the cooking process can result in tough meat. Be patient and give it time to simmer for tenderness.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Beef Bourguignon can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Beef Bourguignon

• Allow it to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags; it will keep well for up to 3 months.

Reheating Beef Bourguignon

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish for about 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish and cover loosely; heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a saucepan, stirring frequently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Beef Bourguignon that might help you.

What is Beef Bourguignon?

Beef Bourguignon is a classic French stew made with tender beef simmered in a rich sauce typically featuring apple vinegar  and aromatic vegetables.

Can I make Beef Bourguignon without wine?

Yes! This recipe uses red apple vinegar as a substitute for wine, providing acidity and depth of flavor without any alcohol.

How long does it take to cook Beef Bourguignon?

The total cooking time is approximately 180 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully for a rich and satisfying dish.

Can I customize my Beef Bourguignon?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust seasonings to suit your taste preferences.

Final Thoughts

Beef Bourguignon is not only comforting but also versatile, making it perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different vegetables or herbs for your own twist on this classic recipe. Enjoy preparing this hearty dish!