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French Beef Bourguignon: A Classic Comfort Dish


  • Author: Annabel
  • Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

French Beef Bourguignon is a timeless classic that blends tender beef, rich Burgundy wine, and earthy vegetables into a comforting and elegant dish. Perfect for special occasions or a cozy night in, this slow-simmered recipe is bursting with deep, complex flavors.


Ingredients

  • 2 lbs beef stew meat
  • 2 carrots, peeled and sliced into rounds
  • 8 oz brown mushrooms, sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 12 oz frozen pearl onions
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/2 tsp coarse ground black pepper
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2 cups Burgundy red wine

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients

  • Cut the beef into bite-sized chunks if not pre-cut. Pat dry with paper towels to help it brown properly.
  • Slice the mushrooms, peel and slice the carrots, and mince the garlic.

2. Brown the Beef

  • Heat 2 tbsp of butter in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat.
  • Season the beef with salt and pepper, then sear in batches until browned on all sides. Remove the beef and set aside.

3. Sauté the Vegetables

  • Add the remaining 2 tbsp of butter to the pot.
  • Sauté the mushrooms, carrots, and pearl onions for about 5 minutes until they begin to soften. Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute.

4. Create the Base

  • Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables, stirring to coat them evenly.
  • Slowly pour in the Burgundy wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.

5. Combine and Simmer

  • Return the browned beef to the pot.
  • Add the bay leaf and fresh thyme. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 2 to 2 1/2 hours, stirring occasionally.

6. Check for Doneness

  • After 2 hours, the beef should be fork-tender, and the sauce will have thickened. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

7. Serve and Enjoy

  • Serve hot with mashed potatoes, crusty bread, or buttered noodles. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves if desired.

Notes

  • Use quality Burgundy or any dry red wine that you enjoy drinking.
  • To thicken the sauce further, simmer uncovered for the last 15 minutes.
  • This dish tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Slow-Simmering
  • Cuisine: French