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. This dish is comforting, flavorful, and great for gatherings, ensuring your guests will savor every bite. With its hearty ingredients and aromatic herbs, you’ll be excited to serve it at your next dinner party or family gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavors: The combination of beef stock and apple vinegar creates a depth of flavor that’s simply irresistible.
• Tender Meat: Slow cooking ensures the beef becomes incredibly tender, making it melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
• Perfect for Gatherings: This dish serves six, making it ideal for holiday dinners or special occasions.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily adapt the recipe with seasonal vegetables or different herbs to suit your taste.
• Easy Preparation: The step-by-step process is straightforward, allowing you to enjoy the cooking experience without stress.

Tools and Preparation

To achieve the best results with this classic beef bourguignon recipe, having the right tools on hand is essential. These tools will help you prepare each step efficiently and effectively.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 5 qt Dutch oven
• Slotted spoon
• Silicone spoon
• Skillet
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• 5 qt Dutch oven: Ideal for slow-cooking, this pot evenly distributes heat, which is perfect for braising meats.
• Silicone spoon: Great for scraping up browned bits from the pot without scratching its surface.
• Skillet: Perfect for sautéing vegetables separately before adding them to the main dish, enhancing their flavors.

Ingredients

Here’s what you will need for this classic beef bourguignon recipe:

For the Base

• 5 strips Turkey Bacon, cut into 1 pieces
• 3 1/2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 2 pieces
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided

Vegetables and Aromatics

• 1 yellow onion, chopped
• 3 large carrots, peeled and chopped
• 5 garlic cloves, minced

Flavor Enhancers

• 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

Final Touches

• 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 an oven to 350 F.

Step 2: Render the Turkey Bacon

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

Step 3: Sear the Beef

Season cubes of beef with kosher salt and pepper. Increase heat to medium-high and sear all sides until browned. Remove from pan once done.

Step 4: Sauté the Veggies

Decrease heat to medium; add two tablespoons of butter. Add chopped onions and carrots; sauté for about 2-3 minutes while stirring often. Then add minced garlic and cook for one more minute. Stir in tomato paste and cook until darkened in color (about 2-3 minutes). Sprinkle flour over veggies; stir well for another few minutes.

Step 5: Add Vinegar, Stock, and Herbs

Stir in apple vinegar while scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Add beef broth and bouillon; bring to a simmer. Return seared beef and Turkey Bacon along with thyme and bay leaves back into the pot. Cover it up and transfer to the oven; cook for about two hours.

Step 6: Add Mushrooms and Pearl Onions

About two hours in, melt remaining butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add mushrooms until browned. Add pearl onions; cook for another five minutes until also browned. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 7: Finish Cooking

Remove from oven after two hours; add mushrooms and onions into the pot. Return to oven until beef is very tender (45-60 minutes). Let it sit covered for about thirty minutes before serving.

Enjoy your delicious classic beef bourguignon recipe!

How to Serve Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe

Serving classic beef bourguignon is a wonderful way to impress your guests or enjoy a cozy family dinner. This rich and hearty dish pairs well with a variety of sides and garnishes that enhance its flavors.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Freshly baked baguette or sourdough bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.

Add a Side Salad

• A simple green salad with vinaigrette adds freshness and balances the richness of the beef bourguignon.

Serve with Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy mashed potatoes provide a comforting base that complements the tender beef.

Include Roasted Vegetables

• Seasonal roasted vegetables like carrots, parsnips, or Brussels sprouts add color and nutrition to your plate.

Top with Fresh Herbs

• A sprinkle of fresh parsley or thyme can brighten the dish and add an aromatic touch.

Offer a Cheese Plate

• A selection of cheeses, like brie or aged cheddar, can be served on the side for a delightful contrast in flavors.

How to Perfect Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe

To ensure your classic beef bourguignon turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose Quality Beef: Use high-quality beef chuck for tender results that melt in your mouth.
• Brown Meat Properly: Searing the beef thoroughly enhances flavor through caramelization.
• Don’t Rush Cooking Time: Allowing ample cooking time lets flavors develop fully—be patient!
• Use Homemade Stock: If possible, homemade beef stock adds depth compared to store-bought options.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste before serving; add salt and pepper as needed to balance flavors.
• Let it Rest: Allowing the dish to sit covered after cooking helps meld flavors beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe

Pairing sides with your classic beef bourguignon can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent suggestions:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting accompaniment.
2. Herb Butter Noodles: Simple egg noodles tossed in herb-infused butter complement the richness of the dish.
3. Steamed Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans offer freshness and color on the plate.
4. Roasted Root Vegetables: A mix of carrots, turnips, and parsnips roasted until caramelized brings sweetness to balance the savory bourguignon.
5. Ratatouille: This colorful vegetable medley adds a touch of Mediterranean flair and nutrition.
6. Cauliflower Gratin: Creamy cauliflower baked until golden provides a rich side without overshadowing the main dish.
7. Polenta: Creamy polenta works as an excellent base, soaking up all those flavorful juices.
8. Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze: Roasted Brussels sprouts drizzled with balsamic glaze add a tangy kick that brightens every bite.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making this classic beef bourguignon recipe, it’s easy to run into common pitfalls. Avoid these mistakes to ensure a perfect dish.

• Not browning the beef properly: Failing to sear the beef can lead to a lack of flavor in your dish. Ensure each piece is browned on all sides for maximum depth of taste.
• Overcooking the vegetables: Sautéing vegetables for too long can make them mushy. Cook them just until they are tender but still retain some texture.
• Ignoring the resting time: Serving immediately can make the dish less flavorful. Letting it rest for 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
• Using low-quality broth: A poor-quality broth will affect the overall taste of your beef bourguignon. Opt for a rich, flavorful beef stock or homemade broth for best results.
• Skipping the herbs: Herbs add essential flavor; omitting them can result in a bland dish. Always include fresh thyme and bay leaves as directed.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing it in for optimal freshness.

Freezing Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe

• Freeze in an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag for up to 3 months.
• Consider portioning before freezing for easy meal prep later.

Reheating Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and cover with foil, heating until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe container and heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally.
• Stovetop: Gently reheat over medium-low heat in a pot, stirring frequently until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about this classic beef bourguignon recipe that might help you out.

What makes this Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe special?

This recipe is special due to its rich flavors from slow cooking and high-quality ingredients like beef stock and fresh herbs, resulting in tender meat and a savory sauce.

Can I customize the ingredients in this Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe?

Absolutely! You can add additional vegetables like potatoes or swap out mushrooms for other favorites. Adjust herbs based on your preference too!

How can I make this Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe vegetarian?

For a vegetarian version, substitute the beef with hearty vegetables like mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of beef stock.

What type of meat is best for this Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe?

Beef chuck is ideal because it becomes tender during slow cooking. Other cuts like brisket or round could work well too.

Final Thoughts

This classic beef bourguignon recipe is not only robust and flavorful but also versatile enough to suit various tastes. It’s perfect for any occasion, especially during holidays or gatherings. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or adjust seasonings to make it your own!