Drift Recipes Beef Bourguignon Recipe: A French Classic Made Simple

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Beef Bourguignon is the ultimate comfort dish, originating from the Burgundy region of France. This rich, flavorful stew features tender beef, slow-cooked with red wine, hearty vegetables, and aromatic herbs. While it might sound fancy, Beef Bourguignon is a hearty and rustic dish that’s perfect for special occasions or a cozy family dinner.

Follow this recipe to recreate the magic of a traditional French kitchen, right in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Beef Bourguignon Recipe

Rich and Robust Flavors: Slow-cooked beef with wine and herbs creates a complex, savory flavor.

Hearty and Comforting: This dish is filling and satisfying, especially when paired with crusty bread or mashed potatoes.

Perfect for Entertaining: Its elegant presentation and deep flavors make it a dinner party favorite.

Easier Than It Seems: While it takes time, the recipe is straightforward, and the results are worth the wait.

Ingredients for Beef Bourguignon

For the Beef:

2 pounds beef chuck or stew meat (cut into 2-inch cubes)
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
Salt and pepper (to taste)
3 tablespoons olive oil

For the Stew Base:

6 strips of bacon (chopped)
1 large onion (diced)
3 carrots (cut into chunks)
3 garlic cloves (minced)
2 tablespoons tomato paste
2 cups red wine (Burgundy or Pinot Noir work well)
2 cups beef broth
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
2 bay leaves
4-5 sprigs fresh thyme

For the Mushrooms and Garnish:

8 ounces cremini or button mushrooms (sliced)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

How to Make Beef Bourguignon

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

Pat the beef cubes dry with paper towels (this helps them brown properly). Season them generously with salt and pepper, then toss them in the flour to coat lightly.

Step 2: Sear the Beef

In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the beef cubes in batches until browned on all sides. Remove the beef and set it aside.

Step 3: Cook the Bacon and Vegetables

In the same pot, add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set it aside. In the rendered bacon fat, sauté the onions and carrots until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Step 4: Build the Flavor Base

Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1–2 minutes to develop its flavor. Deglaze the pot by pouring in the red wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.

Step 5: Combine and Simmer

Return the seared beef and crispy bacon to the pot. Add the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, bay leaves, and thyme. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it cook gently for 2–3 hours, stirring occasionally. The beef should be fork-tender, and the flavors fully developed.

Step 6: Prepare the Mushrooms

In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté until golden and tender. Stir the mushrooms into the stew during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Step 7: Adjust and Serve

Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Remove the bay leaves and thyme sprigs. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Tips for the Perfect Beef Bourguignon

Use Quality Ingredients: A good red wine and fresh herbs make all the difference in flavor.

Don’t Rush the Process: The long cooking time allows the flavors to meld and the beef to become tender.

Choose the Right Cut of Beef: Chuck roast or stew meat works best for slow cooking. Avoid lean cuts, as they can become tough.

Brown the Meat Properly: Take the time to sear the beef for added depth of flavor.

Make It Ahead: Beef Bourguignon tastes even better the next day. Prepare it in advance and reheat gently for a stress-free meal.

Serving Suggestions

Beef Bourguignon is traditionally served with starchy sides that soak up the rich sauce. Here are some classic options:

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes pair perfectly with the hearty stew.

Egg Noodles: A bed of buttery egg noodles is a popular choice.

Crusty Bread: Use to mop up every last drop of the sauce.

Rice: Fluffy rice complements the dish beautifully.

Storing and Reheating

Storing: Allow the stew to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing: Beef Bourguignon freezes well. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating: Warm the stew gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the sauce.

Variations

Vegetable Bourguignon: Substitute the beef with hearty vegetables like mushrooms, eggplant, and zucchini for a vegetarian twist.

Chicken Bourguignon: Use bone-in chicken thighs instead of beef, adjusting the cooking time to about 1 hour.

Pressure Cooker Option: For a faster version, use a pressure cooker or Instant Pot. Cook on high pressure for 35 minutes, then allow a natural release.

Why Beef Bourguignon Is a Timeless Classic

Beef Bourguignon is more than just a stew—it’s a celebration of slow-cooked flavors, simple ingredients, and the art of cooking. Its roots in French cuisine give it an air of elegance, yet its hearty, comforting nature makes it accessible to everyone. Whether served at a family dinner or a special gathering, this dish never fails to impress.

Final Thoughts on Beef Bourguignon

If you’re looking for a dish that’s rich, satisfying, and full of flavor, Beef Bourguignon is the perfect choice. Its tender beef, aromatic vegetables, and luxurious wine-infused sauce create a meal that feels both indulgent and comforting.

Take your time, savor the process, and enjoy the delicious rewards of this classic recipe. Bon appétit!