Bourdain's Beef Stew

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Experience the comforting richness of Bourdain's Beef Stew, a classic dish that warms the soul and delights the palate. This hearty recipe features tender chunks of beef simmered to perfection with aromatic vegetables, herbs, and a splash of red wine, creating a deeply satisfying meal that's perfect for chilly evenings. Serve with crusty bread to soak up every drop of the flavorful broth.

Created by

Emily Carter

Last updated on 2025-10-16T15:34:03.349Z

Bourdain's Beef Stew is more than just a recipe; it's a celebration of flavors and comfort. By incorporating red wine and fresh herbs, this dish embodies the essence of home-cooked meals that bring people together.

A Hearty Classic

Bourdain's Beef Stew showcases the beauty of slow cooking, bringing together simple ingredients to create a deeply flavorful and satisfying dish. Chuck beef, with its rich marbling, becomes incredibly tender when simmered patiently, absorbing the flavors of the broth and vegetables. This dish isn’t just about nourishment; it’s a celebration of culinary tradition, offering a nostalgic taste that warms the heart.

And it’s not just the beef that shines in this stew. The combination of aromatic vegetables – fragrant onions, sweet carrots, and earthy potatoes – adds a delightful complexity to each bite. They break down during the cooking process, infusing the broth with their natural sweetness while also creating a beautiful medley of textures. Enjoy this stew as a comforting staple during autumn and winter.

Perfect Pairings

What enhances a warm bowl of beef stew? A crusty piece of bread! The perfect companion, bread not only serves as an ideal vehicle for the rich broth but also balances the dish's hearty components. A toasted baguette or homemade sourdough are excellent choices that will elevate your dining experience as you soak up every last drop of this luscious stew.

For a complete meal, consider serving a side salad with crisp greens and a tangy vinaigrette. The freshness of the salad will contrast beautifully with the richness of the stew, creating a well-rounded dinner that satisfies diverse palates. Pair your meal with a glass of the same red wine used in the recipe for an added touch of luxury.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

2 lbs chuck beef, cut into chunks
4 carrots, chopped
3 potatoes, diced
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup red wine
4 cups beef broth
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp thyme
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to use fresh herbs for the best flavor.

Instructions

Steps

Brown the Beef

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add beef chunks and brown on all sides. Remove and set aside.

Sauté Vegetables

In the same pot, add onion and garlic; sauté until softened. Add carrots and potatoes, cooking for an additional few minutes.

Combine and Simmer

Return beef to the pot and add red wine, scraping up browned bits from the bottom. Pour in beef broth, add thyme, salt, and pepper, then bring to a boil.

Cook the Stew

Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until beef is tender.

Serve hot with crusty bread.

Ingredient Insights

Choosing high-quality ingredients is crucial for elevating Bourdain's Beef Stew. Opt for grass-fed beef for a richer flavor profile. The chuck cut is ideal due to its balance of tenderness and fat, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth texture once cooked. When selecting vegetables, strive for fresh, seasonal produce that will enhance the stew's natural flavors, ensuring a comforting and nourishing meal.

Don't underestimate the role of red wine in this recipe. It not only contributes depth and complexity to the dish but also aids in tenderizing the beef. A full-bodied wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or a robust Merlot works wonders. If you prefer, you can substitute with beef broth, but the added richness from the wine is undeniably delightful.

Storage and Leftovers

Bourdain's Beef Stew is not only a labor of love but also perfect for meal prep. Once cooked, let the stew cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for up to three months. When reheating, do so gently on the stove to maintain the tenderness of the beef and flavors of the broth.

Leftovers offer a fantastic opportunity for creativity in the kitchen. Consider transforming the stew into a shepherd's pie by topping it with creamy mashed potatoes and baking until golden brown. Alternatively, you can use it as a filling for hearty sandwiches or serve it over rice or pasta for a quick and satisfying meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can brown the beef and sauté the vegetables first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.