Beef Burgundy, or Boeuf Bourguignon as the French would say, is a rich, flavorful stew that brings a touch of rustic elegance to your dining table. This classic dish combines tender beef, velvety wine sauce, and hearty vegetables, making it perfect for a cozy night in.
Beef chuck is the star of the show, providing a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture after long, slow cooking. Bacon adds a smoky depth—use it to build flavor from the very start. The red wine not only tenderizes the beef but also gives the dish its signature robust flavor. Pair it with a good-quality beef stock to create a rich sauce. Tomato paste adds a touch of acidity and richness, while onion and carrots bring sweetness and earthy flavors. Garlic adds aromatic depth, and a bouquet garni of parsley, thyme, and bay leaf ties all the flavors together. Don’t forget the mushrooms; they soak up all the delicious juices, adding a delightful texture.
Beef Burgundy pairs excellently with creamy mashed potatoes, crusty French bread, or buttered noodles to soak up all that delicious sauce. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness beautifully. For a fuller meal, consider serving with a side of roasted green beans or asparagus.
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures a consistent cooking temperature for your stew. Next, pat your beef cubes dry with a paper towel. This step is crucial for getting a good sear, which adds flavor. Season the beef with salt and pepper, then dredge in flour, shaking off any excess.
In a large Dutch oven, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until it turns crisp. Scoop out the bacon and set it aside, leaving those flavorful drippings in the pot. Now, brown the beef in batches in the same pot. Avoid crowding the pan; this helps in achieving a good sear. Once browned, set the beef aside with the bacon.
Time to add some color and sweetness. Toss the onions and carrots into the pot and sauté them for about five minutes until they’re softened. Add in the minced garlic and tomato paste, stirring for another minute to let the flavors meld.
Return the beef and bacon to the pot and pour in the red wine and beef stock. Toss in the bouquet garni and bring everything to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot with a lid and transfer it to your preheated oven. Let it cook for about 2.5 hours until the beef is wonderfully tender.
While the stew is cooking, sauté the quartered mushrooms in butter in a separate pan until they’re golden brown. Add them to the stew during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Before serving, taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to your liking.