Classic Beef Bourguignon

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Warm up your autumn evenings with a heartwarming Classic Beef Bourguignon. This traditional French stew marries tender chunks of beef with rich red wine, aromatic herbs, and hearty vegetables, creating a deeply flavorful dish that's perfect for cozy family dinners or entertaining guests. Serve it with crusty bread or creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting meal that evokes the essence of fall.

Created by

Emily Carter

Last updated on 2025-10-22T09:39:44.782Z

Beef Bourguignon is a classic French stew that represents the heart and soul of home cooking in France. With its deep flavors and comforting nature, it's no wonder it has become a beloved dish worldwide.

Unraveling the History of Beef Bourguignon

Beef Bourguignon is a classic French dish that hails from the Burgundy region, where the rich wine and fine beef come together in a culinary masterpiece. Traditionally, this meal has been enjoyed for centuries, evolving over time to become a staple in French cuisine. Each family may have its own variation, but the core ingredients remain consistent, celebrating the region's produce and culinary heritage.

The dish became particularly popular in the mid-20th century, partly thanks to iconic chef Julia Child, who introduced it to a wider audience through her television shows and cookbooks. This exposure brought a newfound appreciation for French cooking to America, solidifying Beef Bourguignon as a beloved comfort food for many.

The Importance of Quality Ingredients

To create an authentic Beef Bourguignon, sourcing high-quality ingredients is essential. Opt for a good bottle of red wine, ideally Burgundy or any full-bodied red that complements the dish. Wines with complex flavors will enhance the overall depth of the stew, making each bite a delightful experience.

Equally important is the beef you choose. A well-marbled cut like chuck will provide tenderness and richness as it cooks slowly, absorbing the flavors of the wine and herbs. Fresh vegetables and herbs should not be overlooked; they add vital nutrients and texture, making the dish not only delicious but also satisfying.

Pairing Suggestions for a Complete Meal

When serving Beef Bourguignon, consider accompanying it with a side of crusty French bread. The bread can be used to mop up the rich sauce, enhancing the eating experience. Alternatively, creamy mashed potatoes make a wonderful pairing, providing a smooth contrast to the robust flavors of the stew.

If you’re looking for a beverage to enjoy alongside, a glass of the same red wine used in cooking will perfectly complement the dish. For those who prefer an alcohol-free option, a hearty grape juice can echo the flavors without the alcohol. With these pairings, your meal will be both satisfying and memorable.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 2-inch pieces
1 bottle red wine (preferably Burgundy)
2 cups beef stock
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 large onion, chopped
2 carrots, sliced
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 bouquet garni (thyme, bay leaf, parsley)
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil
1 cup pearl onions, peeled
8 oz mushrooms, quartered

Make sure to use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.

Instructions

Cooking Steps

Prepare the Beef

Season the beef chunks with salt and pepper. In a large Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Brown the beef in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan.

Remove the browned beef and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add the chopped onion, carrots, and pearl onions. Sauté until softened. Add garlic and cook for another minute. Stir in the tomato paste.

Deglaze and Simmer

Pour in the red wine and scrape the bottom of the pot to deglaze. Return the beef to the pot, add the beef stock and bouquet garni. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and cover.

Simmer for about 1.5 hours.

Add Mushrooms

Add the quartered mushrooms to the stew and continue to cook for another 30 minutes until the beef is tender.

Serve

Remove the bouquet garni and adjust seasoning as desired. Serve hot with crusty bread or mashed potatoes.

Let the stew rest for a few minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.

Cooking Tips for Success

To achieve the best results, do not rush the browning process for the beef. Taking the time to properly brown each piece enhances the flavor and adds a rich color to the stew. Aim for a deep brown crust, as this is where much of the flavor develops.

When it comes to simmering, patience is key. Allowing the stew to cook low and slow will transform the beef into tender morsels that fall apart easily. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors meld together, resulting in a comforting and deeply satisfying dish.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Leftovers from Beef Bourguignon are often just as delightful, if not more so, the next day. For best results, store the leftover stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can be kept for up to three days, allowing the flavors to continue developing.

When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of beef stock or water if it has thickened too much. This will help maintain the moisture and prevent the meat from becoming tough. Enjoy your hearty leftovers as part of another comforting meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes, but look for cuts that are good for slow cooking like brisket or shank.

→ What wine should I use?

A good quality dry red wine, preferably Burgundy, will work best for authentic flavor.