Craving a taste of France without leaving your kitchen? This Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon is your answer.
Rich and hearty, it’s the perfect dish to warm you up on a chilly day. With tender beef, vibrant vegetables, and a sauce that’s full of deep flavors, this recipe is comfort food at its finest.
Grab your slow cooker and let it do the magic while you enjoy the mouthwatering aroma filling your home.
Steps
- Begin by cooking the bacon in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it’s crispy. Once done, transfer the bacon to your slow cooker.
- Season the beef with salt and pepper before adding it to the skillet. Sear the beef on each side for around 2-3 minutes, then move it to the slow cooker.
- Pour red wine into the skillet, scraping up any brown bits. Let it simmer and reduce, then add chicken broth, tomato sauce, and soy sauce gradually, whisking in the flour slowly.
- Transfer the sauce to the slow cooker. Add garlic, thyme, carrots, potatoes, and mushrooms, stirring everything together.
- Cook on a low setting for 8-10 hours or choose a high setting for 6 hours until the beef is tender.
- Before serving, garnish with fresh parsley. Pair the dish with mashed potatoes if desired.
Ingredients
- Bacon, cooked and chopped
- Boneless beef chuck
- Red cooking wine
- Chicken broth
- Tomato sauce
- Soy sauce
- Flour (or cornstarch for a gluten-free option)
- Garlic cloves, chopped
- Thyme
- Carrots, sliced into thick pieces
- Baby potatoes, washed and prepped
- Mushrooms
- Fresh parsley for garnish
FAQ
- Can I prepare Beef Bourguignon on the stove or in the oven?
- Absolutely, Beef Bourguignon can be prepared using various methods including the stove or oven. Check out a traditional recipe for guidance on these methods.
- What type of meat is ideal for Beef Bourguignon?
- Chuck or beef stew meat are excellent choices due to their tenderness when cooked slowly. Brisket is another flavorful option.
- Which red wine should be used in Beef Bourguignon?
- A dark Burgundy wine is traditionally used, but Pinot Noir or Chianti are also great alternatives. The alcohol will cook out, making it family-friendly.
- What are traditional side dishes for Beef Bourguignon?
- Pairing the dish with potatoes, noodles, or rice, and a side salad makes a complete meal. A crusty baguette or dinner roll complements it well.
- How should I store leftover Beef Bourguignon?
- Keep it in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. For freezing, use airtight bags and consume within three months. Reheat in the slow cooker or on the stove until thoroughly warmed.
Tips
- Don’t Skip the Browning: To enhance the flavor, make sure to pan-sear the beef in the bacon drippings before adding it to the slow cooker. This step helps to create a crisp outer layer while sealing in the juices.
- Choose the Right Wine: For the best depth of flavor, use a dark burgundy wine, Pinot Noir, or Chianti. Although the alcohol will cook off, the wine is essential for achieving the rich taste characteristic of beef bourguignon.
- Add Bay Leaves for Extra Flavor: Consider adding bay leaves to the stew for an additional layer of flavor and complexity, enhancing the dish’s overall taste.
- Select the Right Mushrooms: Opt for crimini mushrooms over white button mushrooms, as they provide a more robust flavor that complements the rich sauce.
