Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon Recipe

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Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon Recipe

Introduction

Beef Bourguignon, a classic French dish, is the epitome of comfort food with its rich, savory flavors and tender, slow-cooked beef.

Traditionally a labor-intensive recipe, this slow cooker version simplifies the process without compromising the dish’s elegance and depth. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this recipe will bring a touch of French sophistication to your table.

Ingredients

Serves 6

  • 2 lbs (1 kg) beef chuck roast, cut into 2-inch cubes
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 6 slices bacon, chopped
  • 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 cups red wine (such as Burgundy or Pinot Noir)
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 lb (450 g) baby potatoes, halved
  • 1 lb (450 g) cremini or button mushrooms, sliced
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons butter, softened
  • Fresh parsley, for garnish

Optional Additions

  • Pearl onions: Add during the last hour of cooking for a sweeter onion flavor.
  • Parsnips or turnips: For additional earthy sweetness.
  • A splash of brandy: Stir in for extra richness.

Tips for Success

  1. Use a quality red wine: Choose a wine you enjoy drinking for the best flavor.
  2. Sear the beef: Browning the beef and bacon before slow cooking enhances the dish’s depth.
  3. Layer ingredients carefully: Place vegetables at the bottom of the slow cooker and beef on top for even cooking.
  4. Thicken the sauce: Combine butter and flour to create a velvety finish for the stew.
  5. Cook low and slow: For tender beef and well-developed flavors, cook on low heat.

Instructions

  1. Prepare the beef: Pat the beef cubes dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper.
  2. Sear the beef: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the beef in batches until browned on all sides. Transfer to the slow cooker.
  3. Cook the bacon: In the same skillet, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Add to the slow cooker.
  4. Sauté vegetables: Sauté carrots, onion, and garlic in the skillet until softened, about 5 minutes. Add tomato paste and cook for another minute. Transfer to the slow cooker.
  5. Deglaze the skillet: Pour the red wine into the skillet, scraping up browned bits from the bottom. Bring to a simmer, then pour into the slow cooker.
  6. Add remaining ingredients: Add beef broth, thyme, bay leaves, potatoes, and mushrooms to the slow cooker. Stir gently to combine.
  7. Slow cook: Cover and cook on low for 8–10 hours or on high for 4–6 hours, until the beef is tender.
  8. Thicken the sauce: In a small bowl, mix softened butter and flour into a paste. Stir it into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
  9. Serve: Remove bay leaves before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with crusty bread or mashed potatoes.

Description

This Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon is a hearty, flavorful dish featuring tender chunks of beef, smoky bacon, and a medley of vegetables in a rich, wine-infused sauce. Its luxurious texture and balanced flavors make it a standout meal that is surprisingly easy to prepare.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

  • Calories: 460
  • Protein: 32g
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Fat: 24g
  • Saturated Fat: 9g
  • Cholesterol: 105mg
  • Sodium: 520mg
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sugar: 4g

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon is a simple yet elegant dish that transforms everyday ingredients into an extraordinary meal.

Its rich flavors and tender texture make it an ideal choice for a cozy family dinner or an impressive dish for entertaining guests.

Recommendation

Serve this Beef Bourguignon with warm crusty bread or creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the luxurious sauce. Pair it with a glass of the same red wine used in the recipe for a truly indulgent experience.

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