Beef Bourguignon

Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables

1. In the same pot, add the chopped onions and carrots. Cook until softened, about 5–7 minutes.
2. Add the garlic and cook for another 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1–2 minutes to remove the raw taste.

Step 5: Deglaze with Wine

1. Pour in the red wine, scraping the bottom of the pot to release all the browned bits. These bits are flavor gold!
2. Let the wine simmer for 3–5 minutes to reduce slightly.

Step 6: Combine and Simmer

1. Return the beef and bacon to the pot.
2. Add the beef broth, bay leaf, and thyme. Stir to combine.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover and cook over low heat for 2–3 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender. You can also bake it in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for the same amount of time.

Step 7: Cook the Onions and Mushrooms

1. While the beef simmers, melt butter in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Sauté the pearl onions until lightly browned and tender. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, sauté the mushrooms until golden. Set aside.

Step 8: Finish the Stew

1. Once the beef is tender, add the cooked onions and mushrooms to the pot.
2. Simmer uncovered for 10–15 minutes to meld the flavors.
3. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

Step 9: Serve

1. Remove the bay leaf.
2. Ladle the Beef Bourguignon over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or crusty bread.
3. Garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.

Tips for the Perfect Beef Bourguignon

• Wine Matters: Use a wine you would drink. Burgundy is classic, but any dry red works.
• Low and Slow: The secret to tender beef is slow cooking. Don’t rush this step.
• Make Ahead: This dish tastes even better the next day as flavors continue to meld.
• Consistency: If your sauce is too thin, simmer uncovered to reduce. If too thick, add a splash of beef broth.

Beef Bourguignon is a labor of love, but the rich, velvety sauce, tender beef, and aromatic vegetables make every step worth it. Whether it’s a family dinner or a special gathering, this French classic will always impress.

If you want, I can also create a visual step-by-step guide with images for each stage of cooking, so it looks like a recipe straight from a French cookbook. This makes it super easy to follow.

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