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Classic Beef Bourguignon

Classic Beef Bourguignon: Comfort in Every Bite

Experience comfort in every bite with this streamlined Classic Beef Bourguignon, a crowd-pleasing French stew perfect for any occasion.
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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: 480
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Stew
  • 4 oz Bacon Adds depth of flavor and umami; try pancetta for a different taste experience.
  • 2 lbs Beef Chuck Ideal for braising; offers a rich, beefy flavor; brisket also works wonderfully, enhancing moisture.
  • 2 tbsp Unsalted Butter Used for sautéing vegetables; olive oil can lighten the dish if you prefer.
  • 1 medium Yellow Onion Provides the sweet base flavor; substitute with shallots for a more refined taste.
  • 2 medium Carrots Adds sweetness and lovely color; you can use parsnips for an interesting twist.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Enhances the stew's aroma; fresh garlic is best, but garlic powder can be a quick substitute.
  • 2 tbsp Tomato Paste Contributes depth to the stew; crushed tomatoes can be used to change the texture.
  • 2 tbsp All-Purpose Flour Thickens the sauce; mix cornstarch with water for a gluten-free option.
  • 750 ml Burgundy Wine Essential for authentic flavor; substitute any bold red wine like Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon.
  • 4 cups Beef Stock Provides moisture and enhances beef flavor; opt for low-sodium stocks to manage saltiness.
  • 1 tbsp Better than Bouillon Beef Bouillon Boosts the overall flavor; omit it if you prefer a simpler taste.
  • 1 tbsp Fresh Thyme Offers herbal notes to the dish; dried thyme can be used; just be mindful of the quantity.
  • 2 leaves Bay Leaves Imparts an aromatic flavor; other herbs like rosemary can add a unique twist.
  • 1 cup Frozen Pearl Onions Adds sweetness and texture; use fresh pearl onions if available.
  • 8 oz Cremini Mushrooms Gives an earthy note; button mushrooms can stand in if needed.
  • 1 tsp Kosher Salt Essential for flavor enhancement; adjust according to taste and dietary preferences.
  • 1 tsp Freshly Cracked Pepper Adds a mild spice; try white pepper for a subtler heat.

Equipment

  • Dutch oven
  • skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Classic Beef Bourguignon
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Gather your ingredients and prepare your Dutch oven for the next steps.
  2. Cook chopped bacon over medium-low heat for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Remove the bacon, leaving the rendered fat.
  3. Season beef chuck with kosher salt and freshly cracked pepper, browning in batches for about 3-4 minutes each. Remove and set aside.
  4. In the remaining fat, sauté chopped onions and diced carrots for 2–3 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and tomato paste, allowing it to darken for about a minute before stirring in flour.
  5. Pour in Burgundy wine, scraping up the browned bits at the bottom. Add beef stock, better than bouillon, thyme, and bay leaves. Return beef and bacon to the mix.
  6. Cover the Dutch oven and braise in the oven for about 2.5 hours.
  7. While the beef is braising, heat butter in a skillet, sauté mushrooms until browned, then add frozen pearl onions and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
  8. Once the beef is tender, stir in the sautéed mushrooms and pearl onions, and return it to the oven for an additional 45-60 minutes.
  9. After cooking, let the stew sit covered for 30 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 480kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 38gFat: 24gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 4gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 6mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 4mg

Notes

Quality matters; ensure proper searing for best flavor and allow ample braising time for optimal tenderness.

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