Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon
Try this Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon recipe.
Try this Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon recipe.
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic crushed
- 1/2 cup cognac
- 2 cups beef stock or broth
- 2 lb stewing beef cut in large chunks
- 1 tsp fresh cracked black pepper
- 2 tbsp flour (leave out for gluten free)
- 1 bunch fresh thyme tied in a bundle (reserve some leaves for garnish)
- 2 cups red wine (burgundy cabernet sauvignon, pinot noir)
- 1 tbsp tomato paste (i like the kind in the tube)
- 1 yellow onion peeled, halved, and sliced
- 3 carrots peeled and cut in 1 inch pieces
- 1 lb small white skinned potatoes left whole if small, or cut in large chunks
- 8 oz (give or take) mushrooms dusted off and halved
- 1 bag frozen pearl onions
- a splash of red wine vinegar or sherry vinegar
- Carbohydrate 8.95540416666667 g
- Cholesterol 161.02529135 mg
- Fat 45.888597842557 g
- Fiber 1.99704165319602 g
- Protein 40.023512846 g
- Saturated Fat 18.0067075004333 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (505g)
- Sodium 188.288989133583 mg
- Sugar 6.95836251347065 g
- Trans Fat 5.44703579935293 g
- Calories 680 calories
Step-by-step
- Browning the meat is an optional step. Heat the oil in a large heavy saute pan or stock pot.
- Toss the meat with salt, pepper, and flour. When the oil is hot, brown the meat in 2 batches, about 6 minutes per batch.
- Put the meat in the slow cooker and top with the thyme bundle.
- Turn off the heat and add the cognac to the pan, scraping up brown bits.
- Add the wine and beef stock, stirring until all browned bits are removed. Stir in the tomato paste.
- Add garlic, carrots, onion, potatoes, mushrooms, and pearl onions to the slow cooker. Add the pan liquid and stir.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
- Remove the thyme bundle and taste. Add vinegar if desired.
- For a thicker sauce, stir in butter coated with flour, or sprinkle in Wondra flour (or corn/potato starch for gluten-free).
- Serve with fresh thyme leaves.
Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon: A Cozy Comfort Food
The aroma of rich, slow-cooked beef bourguignon fills my kitchen, a comforting scent that speaks of warmth and tradition. This dish, a classic French stew, has become a staple in my home, a testament to the simple joys of good food and shared meals. There's something deeply satisfying about the tender, melt-in-your-mouth beef, the earthy mushrooms, and the robust red wine sauce that clings to every bite. It's a recipe that transcends simple ingredients, transforming them into a culinary masterpiece that warms the soul.
My approach to Beef Bourguignon is one of relaxed simplicity. I love the convenience of the slow cooker; it allows the flavors to meld and deepen over time, requiring minimal effort on my part. The process is a meditative one, watching as the humble ingredients transform into something truly special. I often make a double batch, knowing that the leftovers are just as delightful the next day, perhaps even better, as the flavors have had more time to harmonize. The hearty stew is perfect for a chilly evening, served with crusty bread for sopping up the delicious sauce. It's a dish that invites conversation and laughter, a comforting anchor in our busy lives.
Beyond the practical aspects, there’s a sentimental connection to this dish. It reminds me of cozy nights spent with loved ones, the laughter and conversation echoing through the room, the warmth of the stew reflecting the warmth in our hearts. It's a reminder that the simplest meals can hold the most profound memories. This recipe, adapted and perfected over time, is more than just a collection of ingredients and instructions; it’s a legacy, passed down through generations of home cooks, each adding their personal touch, their unique flavor.
The Magic of Slow Cooking:
The slow cooker is my secret weapon for this recipe. Its gentle, even heat allows the tough beef to become incredibly tender, practically falling apart with a gentle touch. The low and slow cooking process also allows the flavors to deepen and meld, creating a rich and complex sauce that's unlike anything you'd achieve through a faster cooking method. It’s a technique that allows the busy woman like me to create a restaurant-quality meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredient Spotlight:
The quality of your ingredients matters. Using a good cut of beef, such as stewing beef, is essential. The red wine adds depth and complexity to the sauce; I often experiment with different varieties, depending on my mood and what I have on hand. Fresh thyme, tied in a bundle, infuses the stew with a subtle herbal note, while the mushrooms add an earthy counterpoint to the richness of the beef.
Serving Suggestions:
This hearty stew is delicious on its own, but it’s even better served with a side of crusty bread for sopping up the delicious sauce. A simple green salad or some roasted vegetables adds a fresh counterpoint to the rich flavors of the stew. And don’t forget the wine! A glass of the same red wine used in the recipe perfectly complements the dish.
Beyond the Recipe:
This isn't just a recipe; it's a journey. It’s a journey of aromas, flavors, and textures that transport you to a simpler time, a time of warmth, comfort, and shared meals. It's a reminder that even amidst the chaos of daily life, there’s always time to create something special, something nourishing, something that connects us to our roots, our family, and ourselves. So go ahead, try this recipe; let the rich, comforting flavors of Beef Bourguignon warm your heart and soul.
Variations and Tweaks:
Feel free to experiment with this recipe! Add other vegetables like parsnips or turnips. Substitute different types of mushrooms. If you prefer a spicier stew, add a pinch of red pepper flakes. The beauty of this dish lies in its adaptability; it's a canvas upon which you can paint your own culinary masterpiece.
This Beef Bourguignon is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. It's a reminder to slow down, savor the moment, and appreciate the simple pleasures in life. It’s a dish that nourishes the body and soul, leaving you feeling satisfied, comforted, and connected to something timeless and truly beautiful. Enjoy!
