Beef Bourguignon Recipe

Picture this: a cozy family gathering around an elegant dining table, pottery plates gleaming in the candlelight, and the mouthwatering aroma of Beef Bourguignon filling the room with its rich, heady scent. This classic French dish is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that brings loved ones together, creating cherished memories over every delicious bite. Perfect for special occasions or a beautiful Sunday dinner, our Beef Bourguignon recipe captures the essence of warmth and togetherness. By following this step-by-step guide, even beginners can create a dish that not only tastes divine but also adds a touch of sophisticated comfort to any meal.

Prep Time: 30 minutes

Cook Time: 2.5 hours

Total Time: 3 hours

Servings: 6

Skill Level: Intermediate

Ingredients

• 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 2-inch cubes
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 4 slices of halal beef bacon, chopped
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 3 cups red wine
• 3 cups beef broth
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp thyme
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 lb mushrooms, sliced
• 2 tbsp flour
• 2 tbsp butter

Instructions

1. Season the beef cubes with salt and pepper.
2. In a large heavy pot, heat 2 tbsp of olive oil over medium-high heat. Brown the beef cubes in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same pot, add the chopped beef bacon and cook until crisp. Remove and set aside.
4. Add 1 tbsp of olive oil, then sauté the onions, garlic, and carrots until softened.
5. Return the beef and bacon to the pot. Stir in the red wine, beef broth, and tomato paste. Add thyme and bay leaves. Bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it gently simmer for about 2 hours, or until the beef is tender.
7. In another pan, melt the butter and add the mushrooms, cooking until they release their moisture. Sprinkle the flour over the mushrooms and cook for another minute, stirring continuously.
8. Add the mushroom mixture to the beef stew, stir well, and cook for another 30 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken.
9. Remove the bay leaves and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot.

Helpful Tips

• Cut beef cubes to a uniform size for even cooking.
• Use a good quality red wine for the best flavor. Avoid using “cooking wines” as they often contain added salt and preservatives.
• If fresh thyme is available, use a few sprigs tied together instead of dried thyme for a more vibrant flavor.
• For a gluten-free version, use cornstarch instead of flour to thicken the sauce.

Storage Instructions

Beef Bourguignon can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat. For longer storage, freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Ingredient Substitutions

If halal beef bacon is unavailable, use a combination of smoked paprika and a bit of liquid smoke to replicate the smoky undertones. Vegetable broth can be used instead of beef broth for a lighter version.

Pairings

Serve this Beef Bourguignon with buttery mashed potatoes, creamy polenta, or a rustic loaf of crusty bread to soak up all the delicious sauce. For drinks, a glass of the same red wine used in cooking will enhance the flavors beautifully, or consider a non-alcoholic sparkling grape juice for a refined touch.

At Zynahz, we believe that every meal should be an occasion filled with joy, creativity, and family togetherness. We hope this Beef Bourguignon recipe inspires you to gather your loved ones and create lasting memories around the dinner table. We’d love to hear about your cooking adventures, so be sure to share your results with us. Enjoy exploring more delicious recipes and follow us on social media or subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates and culinary inspirations. Let’s make every meal a cherished moment together.