Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat & Prep
Set oven to 325°F (163°C)—this low heat is the secret to melt-in-your-mouth beef.
2. Sear the Beef
Melt butter in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
Toss beef in flour, salt, and pepper. Sear for 4–5 minutes until all sides are browned. Remove and set aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot, add pearl onions and carrots. Cook for 4–5 minutes until lightly golden.
4. Deglaze & Simmer
Add garlic, cooking briefly until fragrant.
Pour in Burgundy wine, scraping up all those delicious browned bits.
Return beef to the pot, add bay leaf and thyme. Cover and place in oven.
5. Slow Cook
Bake, covered, for 2 hours.
6. Final Touch
Add mushrooms to the stew. Return to oven for 1 more hour until beef is buttery-tender and sauce is luscious.
Serving Suggestions
-
Classic: Over creamy mashed potatoes.
-
Rustic: With thick slices of crusty French bread.
-
Elegant: Over buttered egg noodles with a sprinkle of fresh parsley.
Tips for Success
-
Don’t skip the sear—it locks in flavor.
-
Use a good Burgundy wine; if it’s nice enough to drink, it’s nice enough to cook with.
-
The stew tastes even better the next day, so feel free to make it ahead.
Storage Instructions
-
Fridge: Store in airtight container up to 4 days.
-
Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in fridge, then reheat gently on stovetop.
General Information
-
Prep time: 20 minutes
-
Cook time: 3 hours
-
Total time: 3 hours 20 minutes
-
Difficulty: Moderate (mostly hands-off cooking)
FAQ
Q: Can I use a slow cooker instead?
A: Yes—cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4–5 hours.
Q: What if I can’t find Burgundy wine?
A: Pinot Noir makes an excellent substitute.
Q: Can I add bacon?
A: Absolutely! Sauté chopped bacon first, then use the drippings instead of butter for a smoky layer of flavor.
Conclusion
This French Beef Bourguignon is more than a stew—it’s a warm embrace in a bowl, steeped in tradition and rich flavor. Whether you serve it at a holiday table or on a rainy Sunday, it’s the kind of recipe that turns a meal into a memory.
