Beef Bourguignon: pure French comfort food

When you think of French cuisine, you probably think of cheese, wine, and… Beef Bourguignon! This delicious stew from Burgundy has been popular in France for centuries and is appreciated worldwide for its rich flavor and warm comfort. In this blog post, we delve into the history of Beef Bourguignon, share the recipe, and give you tips on how to prepare the perfect dish. We'll also share the best side dishes, wines, and restaurants where you can try it.

The history of Beef Bourguignon

Beef Bourguignon has a rich history dating back to the Middle Ages. Originally prepared with inexpensive cuts of beef, such as brisket and shoulder, braised in red wine from the Burgundy region, it was often served at parties and celebrations and was a favorite among locals. Later, in the 20th century, the dish became popular in the United States thanks to celebrity chef Julia Child, who introduced Beef Bourguignon in her cookbooks and television shows. Since then, Beef Bourguignon has become a dish enjoyed worldwide.

The recipe for Beef Bourguignon

Beef Bourguignon is a simple dish to make, but it does take some time and attention to perfect it. Below is the recipe.

Ingredients

• 1.5 kg beef (brisket or shoulder), diced
• 2 bottles of red wine (preferably from the Burgundy region)
• 4 medium onions, chopped
• 4 carrots, sliced
• 3 cloves of garlic, finely chopped
• 200 g mushrooms, sliced
• 2 tbsp flour
• 2 tbsp tomato puree
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 sprigs of thyme
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation method

1. Heat the butter and olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add the onions and garlic and cook until soft.
3. Add the carrots and mushrooms and fry for a few minutes.
4. Remove the vegetables from the pan and set them aside.
5. Add the beef to the pan and brown on all sides.
6. Sprinkle the flour over the beef and stir well.
7. Add the tomato puree, thyme, bay leaves and vegetables back to the pan and stir everything well.
8. Pour the red wine into the pan.
9. Bring to a boil and then simmer over low heat for 2-3 hours, or until the meat is tender and falling apart.
10. Season the whole thing with salt and pepper.
11. Remove the bay leaves and thyme sprigs from the pan and serve the Beef Bourguignon with mashed potatoes, baguette, or rice.

Tips for preparing the perfect Beef Bourguignon

To ensure your Beef Bourguignon is perfect, we've listed a few tips below:

For best results, use good quality red wine from the Burgundy region.

Brown the beef on all sides to develop the flavors.

Let the mixture simmer on low heat for at least 2-3 hours, until the meat becomes tender.

Add the vegetables later in the process so they don't become too soft.

Season the dish with salt and pepper before serving.

The best side dishes and wines for Beef Bourguignon

Beef Bourguignon is a dish that pairs well with various side dishes and wines. Below are a few suggestions.

Mashed potatoes	The creamy mashed potatoes form a perfect base for the dish.
Baguette	A crusty baguette or garlic bread is perfect for dipping in the sauce.
Rice	If you prefer not to have mashed potatoes, rice is a good alternative.
The wine	We recommend a red Burgundy wine, such as a Pinot Noir or a Beaujolais. These wines have a light, fruity flavor that complements the dish well. We've listed more recommendations for good wines in the next paragraph.

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Which wines pair well with Beef Bourguignon?

Because Beef Bourguignon is a classic French dish made with beef braised in red wine, it pairs well with many red wines. The wines we've listed complement Beef Bourguignon perfectly.

Pinot Noir

This light to medium-bodied red wine, with its earthy, fruity and spicy flavours, pairs well with Beef Bourguignon.

Syrah

Syrah is a full-bodied wine with a spicy, smoky flavour that pairs well with the rich and savoury flavours of Beef Bourguignon.

Cabernet Sauvignon

This full-bodied wine has a bold flavor profile that pairs perfectly with the Beef Bourguignon.

Merlot

Merlot is a medium-bodied wine with a soft texture and fruity flavors that complement the complex flavors of Beef Bourguignon beautifully. Ultimately, the best pairing for Beef Bourguignon depends on personal preference. It's always a good idea to try several wines to find the one you like best with this delicious dish.

Frequently Asked Questions about Beef Bourguignon

What is the difference between Boeuf Bourguignon and Beef Bourguignon?

There's no difference between boeuf bourguignon and beef bourguignon. They're the same dish, but with different names. Boeuf bourguignon is the French name for the dish, while beef bourguignon is the English translation.

What are the basic ingredients for Beef Bourguignon?

The basic ingredients for Beef Bourguignon include beef, red wine, beef broth, onions, carrots, garlic, mushrooms, tomato paste, thyme, bay leaves, and bacon. Some recipes also call for silverskin onions or other vegetables.

Can I make Beef Bourguignon ahead of time?

Yes, you can make Beef Bourguignon ahead of time. It's actually even better if made a day in advance, as the flavors then have time to meld. Store the dish in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.

Is Beef Bourguignon a healthy dish?

Beef Bourguignon is a hearty, flavorful dish that can be high in calories and fat, depending on the ingredients used. However, it can be made healthier by using lean cuts of beef, reducing the amount of bacon, and serving it with a variety of vegetables.

What are some variations of Beef Bourguignon?

Some variations of Beef Bourguignon incorporate different meats, such as lamb or venison, or different vegetables, such as parsnips or turnips. Some recipes also call for a splash of cognac for added flavor.

Can I make Beef Bourguignon in a slow cooker?

Yes, Beef Bourguignon can be made in a slow cooker for added convenience. Simply brown the beef and bacon in a skillet and add it to the slow cooker along with the other ingredients. Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 4 to 5 hours, until the meat is tender and the flavors have melded.

Can I freeze Beef Bourguignon?

Yes, Beef Bourguignon can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just make sure the dish has cooled completely before storing it in a freezer-safe container. When you're ready to serve it, let the Beef Bourguignon thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat it on the stovetop or in the oven.

How long should I cook Beef Bourguignon?

Beef Bourguignon is typically cooked for several hours to allow the flavors to meld and tenderize the meat. A good rule of thumb is to cook it for at least 2 to 3 hours, but it can be cooked for up to 6 hours or longer for maximum tenderness.

Which cut of meat is best for Beef Bourguignon?

The best cuts of beef for Beef Bourguignon are typically tougher cuts with lots of connective tissue, such as roast or brisket. These cuts benefit from long, slow cooking in liquid, which breaks down the tough fibers and tenderizes the meat.

Beef Bourguignon is a delicious classic French dish that's perfect for cold weather or special occasions. It takes some time and effort to prepare, but the result is a rich and flavorful stew that's sure to impress. Whether you make it on the stovetop or in a slow cooker, Beef Bourguignon is definitely a meal worth the extra effort. It's no wonder the tender beef, savory sauce, and aromatic vegetables have been a beloved favorite for generations.