Classic Beef Bourguignon

Name: Classic Beef Bourguignon
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 2 h 30 min
Total time: 3 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes; 1 bottle red wine (preferably Burgundy); 4 cups beef broth; 1 tbsp tomato paste; 2 cups pearl onions, peeled; 2 cups carrots, sliced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bouquet garni (thyme, bay leaf, parsley); Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 tbsp flour; 3 tbsp olive oil; 1 cup mushrooms, quartered

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Experience the rich, hearty flavors of Classic Beef Bourguignon, a traditional French dish that combines tender beef, aromatic vegetables, and a luscious red wine sauce. This slow-cooked stew is perfect for cozy dinners and brings warmth and sophistication to any table. Serve it with crusty bread or creamy mashed potatoes for an unforgettable meal.

Created by

Clara Jennings

Last updated on 2025-12-01T11:19:49.644Z

This Classic Beef Bourguignon recipe hails from the Burgundy region of France, where rich flavors and traditional cooking techniques come together to create an unforgettable dish.

The Origin of Beef Bourguignon

Beef Bourguignon is a classic dish that hails from the Burgundy region of France, known for its superb wines and rich culinary heritage. Traditionally prepared by French peasants, this hearty stew exemplified the resourcefulness of rural cooks, who sought to make the most of tough cuts of meat. By slow-cooking the beef in red wine, the dish transforms into a tender and flavorful delight, embodying the essence of French comfort food.

The dish gained popularity in the mid-20th century, becoming a staple in French cuisine. It was popularized further by Julia Child in her cookbook 'Mastering the Art of French Cooking,' which reintroduced traditional French dishes to American home cooks. Today, Beef Bourguignon is a beloved meal served across the globe, representing the warmth of home cooking.

Choosing the Right Ingredients

When it comes to making the perfect Beef Bourguignon, selecting high-quality ingredients is essential. Start with a marbled cut of beef chuck, which provides the rich flavor and tenderness you desire. The magic of this dish largely lies in its red wine, so choose a bottle that you would enjoy drinking; a Burgundy is traditional, but any full-bodied red wine works well. If you’re looking for a non-alcoholic option, consider using a good-quality beef broth combined with grape juice for a similar depth of flavor.

Don’t overlook the importance of vegetables and aromatics. Fresh pearl onions, crunchy carrots, and earthy mushrooms add layers of flavor to the stew. The bouquet garni, a traditional mix of herbs like thyme, bay leaf, and parsley, enhances the overall taste, making the dish aromatic and inviting. By using fresh, high-quality ingredients, you’re setting the stage for a truly exceptional meal.

Serving Suggestions

Beef Bourguignon is a dish that invites companionship and conversation around the table. Serve it alongside crusty French bread to soak up the delicious sauce, or opt for creamy mashed potatoes, which perfectly complement the rich flavors of the stew. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can also help balance the dish’s richness, providing a refreshing contrast.

For those looking to elevate their dining experience, consider pairing your meal with a glass of the same red wine used in your recipe. This enhances the flavors and creates a harmonious dining atmosphere. For dessert, a classic French tart or cheese platter can provide a delightful ending to an unforgettable meal.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Beef Bourguignon

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

Make sure to prepare all your ingredients before starting the cooking process.

Instructions

Cooking Instructions

Marinate the Beef

In a large bowl, combine the beef cubes with the red wine. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.

Brown the Beef

Remove the beef from the marinade and pat dry. In a large Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Brown the beef in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan.

Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add the remaining olive oil and sauté the pearl onions, carrots, and mushrooms until they start to soften.

Combine Ingredients

Add the browned beef back into the pot along with the garlic, tomato paste, flour, and bouquet garni. Stir to combine.

Add Broth and Wine

Pour in the beef broth and the reserved wine marinade. Bring to a simmer and reduce the heat to low.

Slow Cook

Cover the pot and let it cook for 2 to 2.5 hours, or until the beef is tender. Stir occasionally.

Serve with crusty bread or creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce.

Tips for Perfecting Your Beef Bourguignon

For the best results, patience is key. Allow the beef to marinate for at least four hours, though overnight marinating brings out the maximum flavor. This step not only infuses the meat with the rich notes of red wine but also helps to tenderize it. If you’re short on time, even a few hours can make a difference; just be sure to season the beef thoroughly before browning.

As the dish cooks, resist the temptation to lift the lid frequently; this can interfere with the cooking process and prolong the simmering time. Instead, check on the stew every so often and give it a gentle stir. If you desire a thicker sauce, feel free to remove the lid during the last half hour of cooking to allow it to reduce.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Beef Bourguignon gets even better with time, making it ideal for meal prep and leftovers. After cooling, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will meld beautifully, making each serving even more delicious than the last. You can also freeze the stew for up to three months, ensuring you have a hearty meal on hand for busy days.

When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop over low heat to avoid toughening the meat. Adding a splash of beef broth or water can help restore the stew’s consistency. Either way, you’ll find that this classic dish continues to deliver warmth and richness, making it perfect for any occasion.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes, you can use various cuts such as brisket or round, but chuck is the most recommended for stews.

→ Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?

Yes, you can substitute the beef with mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead.