French Beef Bourguignon Recipe: Tender Beef in Red Wine Sauce

 

 

French Beef Bourguignon Recipe: Tender Beef in Red Wine Sauce

Beef Bourguignon, or Boeuf Bourguignon, is a traditional French dish that hails from the Burgundy region. This hearty stew features tender chunks of beef braised in red wine, along with mushrooms, pearl onions, and bacon. It’s a dish that not only warms the heart but also impresses at any dinner table.

Ingredients

For the Marinade:

• 3 pounds beef chuck, cut into 2-inch cubes
• 1 bottle (750 ml) of good quality red wine (preferably Burgundy or Pinot Noir)
• 2 tablespoons brandy (optional)
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 bay leaves
• 4 sprigs of fresh thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Stew:

• 4 tablespoons olive oil
• 6 ounces bacon, diced
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups beef stock
• 12 small pearl onions, peeled
• 8 ounces mushrooms, quartered
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Beef

1. In a large bowl, combine the beef cubes, red wine, brandy, chopped onion, sliced carrots, minced garlic, bay leaves, thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and tenderizes the meat.

Step 2: Prepare the Stew

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced bacon and cook until crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside, leaving the fat in the pot.
3. Remove the beef from the marinade (reserve the marinade) and pat dry with paper towels. Season with salt and pepper.
4. In the same pot, sear the beef in batches until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Build the Flavor

1. In the same pot, add the pearl onions and mushrooms. Sauté until they are browned and tender.
2. Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir to combine. Cook for about 2 minutes.
3. Pour in the reserved marinade and beef stock, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Return the beef and bacon to the pot.

Step 4: Braise the Beef

1. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover and transfer to the preheated oven.
2. Cook for about 2 to 2.5 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender.

Step 5: Serve

1. Once cooked, remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
2. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley, alongside mashed potatoes, crusty bread, or noodles to soak up the delicious sauce.

Tips for the Perfect Beef Bourguignon

• Wine Quality: Use a wine that you would enjoy drinking. The better the wine, the better the flavor of the dish.
• Marination: Don’t skip the marination step; it’s crucial for flavor and tenderness.
• Slow Cooking: This dish is best made a day in advance. The flavors deepen and improve overnight.
• Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or celery for added flavor.