Hearty Weeknight Beef Bourguignon

Looking for stew recipes? This Beef Bourguignon is easier than you think! A rich, comforting classic, perfect for a chilly evening. Get the family recipe!

Alright, let's dive into this recipe introduction like it's a warm bath on a chilly evening, eh?

Recipe Introduction: Beef Bourguignon Bliss

Quick Hook

Ever fancy a bit of france without the channel crossing? our stew recipe for weeknight beef bourguignon is a hug in a bowl! it's rich, flavourful, and easier than navigating the tube during rush hour.

This dish boasts a hearty, rustic flavor profile with tender beef and a luxurious red wine sauce.

Brief Overview

Beef bourguignon, or beef burgundy, originates from the burgundy region of france. it's traditionally a long-simmered stew, but we've made it accessible for busy weeknights.

This is medium difficulty, will take about 2 hours 25 minutes, and serves 6 hungry souls. it’s great for a comforting meal! it is a welcome addition to your soups stews chilis rotation.

Main Benefits

Honestly, one of the best benefits is how incredibly satisfying this is after a long day! it's packed with protein and the red wine actually contains antioxidants.

This is the perfect meal for a sunday dinner or any special occasion. this particular stew recipe is special because it brings a touch of french elegance to your table without requiring culinary school.

It feels like it should be part of the fall soups canon. what's more, this is a great example of an idee pasto sano without sacrificing flavour.

And if you were thinking of using a crockpot recipes slow cooker for this, you absolutely could! just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

This really is the perfect addition to the soup season .

Okay, now that we've got your mouth watering, let’s get to those ingredients!

Alright, gather 'round, you hungry lot! let’s talk ingredients for some proper grub. we're diving into what makes stew recipes, especially my kind of cowboy stew , the soul-warming magic they are.

Think of this as your treasure map to flavor town. and trust me, fall soups season demands only the best!

Ingredients & Equipment

Main Ingredients

Right, let's break it down, shall we? here's what you'll need for a banging beef bourguignon – a fancy way of saying beef stew , really.

It's one of my fave soups stews chilis .

• Beef Chuck: 2.5 lbs (1.1 kg) , cubed. Look for good marbling, that’s your flavor ticket.
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons (30 ml) . Extra virgin, naturally.
• Onion: 1 large , chopped. About 1 cup (150g) . The humble base.
• Carrots: 2 , chopped. Also about 1 cup (150g) . Adds a touch of sweetness, you know?
• Celery: 2 stalks , chopped. Again, about 1 cup (150g) . Earthy goodness.
• Garlic: 4 cloves , minced. Roughly 2 teaspoons (10g) . Don't be shy.
• Dried Thyme: 1 teaspoon (5 ml) . Woody and aromatic.
• Dried Rosemary: 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 ml) . Piney and fragrant.
• Salt: 1/4 teaspoon (1.25 ml) . Seasoning is key, my friend.
• Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon (1.25 ml) . Freshly ground, if you please.
• All-Purpose Flour: 1/4 cup (30g) . Helps thicken things up nicely.
• Bacon: 1/2 pound (225g) , thick-cut. Crispy bacon, always a win.
• Cremini Mushrooms: 8 oz (225g) , quartered. Earthy and umami-rich.
• Dry Red Wine: 1 bottle (750 ml) . Go for a Burgundy or Pinot Noir. Don't use that dodgy cooking wine, alright?
• Beef Broth: 2 cups (475 ml) , low sodium. Because salt creep is a thing.
• Tomato Paste: 2 tablespoons (30 ml) . Adds depth and richness.
• Bay Leaf: 1 . Don't forget to fish it out later, yeah?
• Butter: 1 tablespoon (15g) , unsalted. For a velvety finish.
• Flour: 1 tablespoon (15g) . More thickening power, if needed.

Seasoning Notes

The right combo is everything. thyme and rosemary are non-negotiable. for extra punch, a pinch of smoked paprika doesn't hurt.

Honestly, play around, it's your kitchen! if you're after something warmer, a touch of nutmeg can transform this into an incredible soup and stew .

Speaking of incredible, if you're looking for a quick substitute for red wine (maybe you're out or don't drink), try a splash of balsamic vinegar with a bit of grape juice.

Trust me, it works!

Equipment Needed

Okay, gear check! Ditch the fancy stuff. You mainly need:

• Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot. Get this HOT for searing.
• Chopping board. Keep it clean, yeah?
• Sharp knife. Dull knives are dangerous.
• Measuring cups and spoons. Be precise or don't, I'm not your mum.
• Wooden spoon or spatula. For stirring like a pro.

If you ain't got a dutch oven, a sturdy saucepan will do in a pinch. though honestly? treat yourself, you deserve it.

This stew is also amazing in a crockpot recipes slow cooker . just brown the beef first. i'm telling you, nothing beats coming home to a hot bowl of soups stews chilis .

This my friend, is not only your ticket to enjoy a delightful meal, but also an Idee Pasto Sano .

So there you have it! Now go get cooking!

Alright then, let’s get cooking!

Cooking Up Comfort: Weeknight Beef Bourguignon

Oh my gosh, who doesn't love a good stew recipe ? honestly, soup season is my favourite. and when it comes to the ultimate in cozy, flavourful dishes, beef bourguignon is right up there! but let’s be real, who has hours to spend slaving away in the kitchen? that's why i've taken the classic and made it weeknight-friendly.

It's a soup and stew hybrid that will have everyone saying "ooh la la!"

This ain't your grandma's fussy french recipe. we’re talking about all the amazing flavours – tender beef, earthy mushrooms, smoky bacon, that rich red wine sauce – but without needing a full afternoon glued to the stove.

Perfect for those chilly evenings when you need something hearty, think fall soups that just warms you from the inside out.

Trust me, even if you think cooking french food is a bit posh, you'll nail this.

Prep Like a Pro

• Essential Mise en Place : Get all your ingredients chopped and measured. Honestly , it makes the whole process smoother. Cube your 2.5 lbs of beef chuck, chop 1 large onion, 2 carrots, 2 celery stalks, mince those 4 cloves of garlic and quarter your 8 oz of mushrooms. I always feel like a proper chef when I do this.
• Time-Saving Organization Tips : Pre-chop your veggies the night before. Boom. Saved you 15 minutes.
• Safety Reminders : Searing can get a bit splattery, so watch out for hot oil.

Let's Get Stewing!

1. Sear the Beef : Season beef with salt, pepper, 1 teaspoon dried thyme and 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary. Toss with 1/4 cup all-purpose flour. Sear in batches in 2 tablespoons olive oil over medium-high heat. Don't overcrowd! You want a nice brown crust. Remove and set aside.
2. Bacon & Veggies : Cook 1/2 pound of chopped thick-cut bacon until crispy. Remove, leaving the delicious fat. Sauté the onion, carrots, and celery until soft. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the Mushrooms : Sauté the mushrooms until browned.
4. Simmer Time : Return the beef to the pot. Pour in 750 ml of red wine, scraping up those browned bits. Add 2 cups beef broth, 2 tablespoons tomato paste, and 1 bay leaf. Bring to a simmer.
5. Low & Slow : Cover and simmer on low for 1.5 - 2 hours , or until the beef is super tender.
6. Thicken It Up (Optional) : Whisk 1 tablespoon butter and 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour. Stir into the stew to thicken, if needed.
7. Finish & Serve : Remove the bay leaf. Stir in the cooked bacon. Season to taste. Serve hot and bask in the glory of your idee pasto sano .

Pro Tips From My Kitchen

• Don't Be Scared of the Wine : Use a good quality dry red that you'd actually drink . It makes a difference.
• Common Mistake to Avoid : Don't skip the searing! It’s crucial for flavour.
• Make-Ahead Magic : This soup chili , like many soups stews chilis , is even better the next day. The flavours get all happy together. And hey, if you're looking for easier stuff, check out crockpot recipes slow cooker .

So, there you have it! this simplified beef bourguignon is perfect for a comforting weeknight meal. whether you're dreaming of a cowboy stew by the campfire or something cozy on a rainy evening, this recipe has you covered.

Get cooking and enjoy!

Alright, let's chat about these stew recipes . I'm no fancy chef, but I know a thing or two about making a hearty meal. So, grab a cuppa, and let's dive in.

Recipe Notes: Making Your Soup Season Extra Special

Honestly, this beef bourguignon is pretty straightforward, but there are a few things i've learned along the way. it’s perfect for those chilly evenings when you just want a big bowl of comfort.

Think of it as your hug in a bowl.

Serving: Plating Like a Pro (Almost!)

Okay, plating doesn't have to be some masterchef-level performance. a simple bowl does the trick, really. but if you're feeling fancy, a sprinkle of fresh parsley makes it look pretty.

I love serving mine with creamy mashed potatoes – they soak up that delicious sauce perfectly. crusty bread is another great option for mopping up every last bit.

Don't forget the wine! serve with a glass of the red wine used in the recipe. the rich flavors are perfect for pairing.

Storage: Keeping It Fresh

Leftovers? lucky you! this soup and stew tastes even better the next day. just pop it in an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days.

For longer storage, freezing is your friend. portion it out into freezer bags or containers. thaw it overnight in the fridge, then reheat gently on the stovetop.

Avoid reheating many times.

Variations: Idee Pasto Sano (Healthy Meal Ideas) & More

Fancy a change? no problem! for a vegetarian twist, swap the beef for mushrooms and lentils. it's surprisingly good! if you are looking for something that goes with your diet, this is one good idee pasto sano .

Need a gluten-free option? just use gluten-free flour. and for a summery take, try swapping the carrots for courgettes. honestly, the possibilities are endless.

Nutrition: The Good Stuff

This cowboy stew isn't just delicious; it's packed with goodness too. you get a good dose of protein from the beef, and plenty of vitamins and minerals from the veggies.

Just be mindful of the salt content, and perhaps choose a lower-sodium beef broth.

So there you have it! a few notes to help you along your beef bourguignon adventure. don't be afraid to experiment and make it your own.

These stew recipes are meant to be enjoyed, so get cooking! you can even use your crockpot recipes slow cooker if you’re short on time.

The key here is to create something delightful. don't forget to try other fall soups as well.

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of beef is best for this stew recipe?

For the most tender and flavourful Beef Bourguignon, go for beef chuck. It's got a good amount of marbling (that's the fat, love!) which melts down during the long simmering process, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth texture. Ask your butcher for chuck roast and cut it into 1-inch cubes yourself.

Can I make this stew recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely, in fact, Beef Bourguignon is often better the next day! The flavours have more time to meld together, creating an even richer and more complex dish. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a good reheat on the stovetop before serving – a bit like a good cuppa, it improves with a bit of time.

I'm not a big wine drinker – can I skip the red wine in this stew recipe?

While the red wine is a key component of Beef Bourguignon, you can substitute it in a pinch. Use an equal amount of beef broth, plus a tablespoon of red wine vinegar or balsamic vinegar for a bit of acidity. However, bear in mind that the final flavour won't be quite the same - it'll lack some of that depth and complexity that the wine brings to the party.

How do I thicken the stew if it's too watery?

If your stew is a bit thin for your liking, there are a couple of tricks. You can make a "beurre manié" (equal parts butter and flour, kneaded together) and whisk it into the simmering stew until it thickens. Alternatively, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a couple of tablespoons of cold water to form a slurry, then whisk that into the stew near the end of cooking. A bit like adding gravy granules, but fancier!

Are there any good side dishes to serve with this stew recipe?

Beef Bourguignon is quite rich, so you want sides that complement that. Classic choices include creamy mashed potatoes (a must!), buttered egg noodles, or crusty bread for soaking up all that delicious sauce. A simple green salad with a vinaigrette also provides a refreshing contrast.

Can I adapt these stew recipes for a slow cooker or crock-pot?

You certainly can! Sear the beef and vegetables as directed in the recipe, then transfer everything to your slow cooker or crock-pot. Add the remaining ingredients and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. This is a great way to set it and forget it – perfect for those days when you're busier than a bee in a bonnet!

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