If you're looking for a comforting dish that makes you feel like you've traveled to the heart of France without leaving your kitchen, this Beef Bourguignon with Garlic Mash is your ticket. It's rich, deeply flavorful, and perfect for those cozy nights when you want something special.
Beef chuck is the star, offering a tender and flavorful bite after slow cooking. A light coating of all-purpose flour helps create a crust and thickens the sauce. Bacon adds a smoky undertone and extra richness. The red wine and beef broth form the base of the sauce, infusing the dish with depth. Tomato paste, thyme, and a bay leaf bring balance and earthiness. Pearl onions and mushrooms add sweetness and umami. For the mash, potatoes, butter, heavy cream, and garlic create a smooth, indulgent side.
Serve this dish with a side of crusty bread to soak up the rich sauce. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can add a refreshing contrast. For a complete experience, pair it with a glass of the same red wine used in cooking.
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). Season your beef cubes generously with salt and pepper. Lightly coat them with flour; this will help sear a nice crust. Heat up the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high. Brown the beef in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pot, then set it aside.
In the same pot, toss in the bacon and cook until it's nice and crispy. Remove it, but leave those delicious drippings behind. Pour in the red wine to deglaze, scraping up all those browned bits that are full of flavor. Return the beef and bacon to the pot and add the beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, and bay leaf. Bring it all to a simmer.
Cover the pot, and transfer it to the oven. Let it cook for 2 hours, giving it a gentle stir now and then. While it cooks, you can focus on the garlic mash. Boil your potatoes in salted water until they're fork-tender. Drain them, then return them to the pot with butter, heavy cream, and minced garlic. Mash until smooth and irresistible.
Once the beef has had its two-hour sauna, add in the pearl onions and mushrooms. Let it cook for another 30 minutes until everything is perfectly tender. Pull it from the oven, discard the bay leaf, and taste for seasoning.