Bœuf Bourguignon

November 25, 2024 · Valerie Brunet

Prep Time

210 minutes

Cook Time

180 minutes

Transport yourself to the French countryside with this classic Bœuf Bourguignon recipe, a hearty and flavorful stew that’s perfect for cozy family dinners or special occasions. Made with tender chunks of beef, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs, this dish is slow-cooked to perfection, creating a rich, savory flavor that melts in your mouth. Pair it with a glass of red wine, and you’ll have an authentic French dining experience right at home!

Why You’ll Love Bœuf Bourguignon

  • Authentic French Cuisine: A timeless recipe from Burgundy, the heart of French gastronomy.
  • Rich and Flavorful: Slow cooking brings out deep, complex flavors in the beef and vegetables.
  • Perfect for Entertaining: Impress guests with this elegant yet comforting dish.
  • Versatile Pairings: Serve with mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, or fresh baguette for the perfect accompaniment.

What is Bœuf Bourguignon?

Bœuf Bourguignon, also known as Burgundy Beef Stew, is a traditional French dish that originates from the Burgundy region. This hearty stew combines beef, red wine, mushrooms, carrots, onions, and herbs for a dish that’s as flavorful as it is satisfying. Traditionally, the beef is braised in red wine, creating a rich, tender meal infused with the wine’s earthy notes.

Tips for the Best Bœuf Bourguignon

  1. Choose the Right Beef: Use well-marbled cuts like chuck roast or stew meat for tender results.
  2. Use Quality Red Wine: A Burgundy or Pinot Noir adds depth to the dish.
  3. Low and Slow Cooking: Allow at least 3 hours for the flavors to develop and the beef to become tender.
  4. Enhance with Fresh Herbs: Bay leaves and thyme are essential for that authentic French aroma.

Perfect Pairings

Complete your Bœuf Bourguignon meal with:

  • Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery to complement the rich stew.
  • Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up the flavorful sauce.
  • Steamed Vegetables: Add a fresh, light side to balance the dish.

This Bœuf Bourguignon recipe is an ideal choice for those looking to explore traditional French cooking. With its rich flavors, tender beef, and classic presentation, it’s a dish that will delight everyone at the table. Try it today for an unforgettable dining experience!

Ingredients

1.3 lbs (600 g) beef chuck or stew meat, cut into large chunks

10 medium mushrooms, roughly chopped

3 carrots, peeled and cut into chunks

1 onion, finely chopped

1 clove garlic, peeled

3 tbsp olive oil

2 bay leaves

Fresh thyme sprigs (2-3)

Salt, to taste

Pepper, to taste

Directions

  • Instructions:
  • Prepare the Vegetables: Peel and chop the onion. Peel the carrots and cut them into chunks. Rinse the mushrooms quickly and cut them into pieces.
  • Prepare the Meat: Cut the beef into large chunks if not already pre-cut.
  • Sauté the Onion and Beef: In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3 minutes. Then, add the beef and mushrooms, stirring occasionally.
  • Brown the Meat: Cook the beef and mushrooms for about 5 minutes over medium heat until lightly browned.
  • Add Remaining Ingredients: Add the carrots, bay leaves, thyme, and whole garlic clove. Season with salt and pepper. Stir to combine, then cover the pot.
  • Simmer: Lower the heat to low and let the mixture cook for approximately 3 hours, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
  • Serve Hot: Serve the Bœuf Bourguignon hot, ideally with crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or buttered noodles.