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Classic Beef Bourguignon

Classic Beef Bourguignon: Hearty French Comfort in One Pot

Classic Beef Bourguignon is a rich and comforting French dish perfect for gatherings, showcasing tender beef and a flavorful red wine sauce.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Resting Time 30 minutes
Total Time 3 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: French
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Stew
  • 4 slices Bacon Adds smokiness and richness; substitute with turkey bacon for a lighter option.
  • 2 pounds Beef Chuck Well-marbled for flavor and tenderness; brisket can be a budget-friendly substitute.
  • 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter For sautéing vegetables and enhancing richness; use olive oil as a dairy-free alternative.
  • 1 large Yellow Onion Provides a savory base flavor; shallots can be a milder substitute.
  • 2 medium Carrots Adds sweetness and color to the stew; substitute with parsnips for a unique twist.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Infuses a robust flavor; use garlic powder if fresh is unavailable.
  • 2 tablespoons Tomato Paste Contributes a depth of flavor and slight acidity; both homemade and store-bought varieties work well.
  • 2 tablespoons All-Purpose Flour Used for thickening the sauce; can be omitted for a gluten-free version using cornstarch.
  • 1 bottle Burgundy Wine The key flavor contributor; use a bold red wine if unavailable.
  • 4 cups Beef Stock Provides moisture and flavor; homemade stock is ideal, broth can be used in a pinch.
  • 1 teaspoon Better than Bouillon Enhances the beef flavor; optional based on stock richness.
  • 2 teaspoons Fresh Thyme Adds herbaceous notes; dried thyme can be used as a substitute.
  • 2 leaves Bay Leaves Infuse a subtle aroma; remember to remove them before serving.
  • 1 cup Frozen Pearl Onions Sweet and tender accents in the stew; fresh pearl onions can be substituted but will need peeling.
  • 8 ounces Cremini Mushrooms For an earthy flavor and texture; white mushrooms are a viable alternative.
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt Enhances overall flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Freshly Cracked Pepper Enhances overall flavor.

Equipment

  • Dutch oven

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Classic Beef Bourguignon
  1. Step 1: Preheat the Oven. Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Gather your ingredients while the oven heats up.
  2. Step 2: Render the Bacon. In a Dutch oven, add diced bacon and cook over medium-low heat for 5-7 minutes until crispy. Transfer the bacon leaving the fat in the pot.
  3. Step 3: Sear the Beef. Increase heat to medium-high, add seasoned beef chuck, searing for 4-5 minutes until browned. Remove beef and set aside with bacon.
  4. Step 4: Sauté Vegetables. Lower heat to medium, add butter, onions, and carrots, sautéing for 5-6 minutes. Add garlic and tomato paste, cooking for an additional 2 minutes.
  5. Step 5: Incorporate Flour and Liquids. Sprinkle flour, stirring for 1-2 minutes. Gradually pour in wine and stock, scraping the pot's bottom.
  6. Step 6: Add Meat and Herbs. Return beef and bacon, add thyme and bay leaves, stir, cover, and bake in the oven for 2.5 hours.
  7. Step 7: Sauté Mushrooms and Pearl Onions. In a skillet, sauté mushrooms and pearl onions in butter for 5-7 minutes; set aside.
  8. Step 8: Final Touches. Stir in sautéed mushrooms and pearl onions after initial baking; return to oven for 45-60 minutes.
  9. Step 9: Let it Rest. Remove the pot from the oven and let it sit, covered, for 30 minutes before serving to deepen flavors.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 35gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 1000mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Use quality ingredients for the best flavor, don’t rush the browning, and allow resting time to enhance the stew's richness.

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