Beef Bourguignon

Prep: 20 min Cook: 120 min Serves: 6 Cuisine: French

Beef Bourguignon is a rich, hearty French stew featuring tender beef slow-cooked in red wine with mushrooms, celery, and aromatic herbs. Its deep flavors and comforting nature make it perfect for special dinners or family gatherings, offering a taste of classic French cuisine with robust, savory notes.

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Ingredients

  • 2 1/2 lb. lean stewing beef
  • flour
  • oil
  • 2 celery stalks
  • pinch of minced garlic
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 tsp. basil
  • 1 tsp. oregano
  • 2 Tbsp. brandy (optional)
  • 1 1/2 c. red wine
  • 1 c. beef stock or bouillon
  • 3/4 c. sliced mushrooms
  • salt and pepper

Instructions

  1. Coat the stewing beef with flour and brown in oil.
  2. Add all the other ingredients except celery and mushrooms.
  3. Simmer on low for 2 hours.
  4. Add celery and mushrooms during the last 10 minutes of cooking.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, let the beef marinate in the wine and herbs overnight. If you don't have brandy, use a splash of extra wine or a bit of balsamic vinegar as a substitute. For thickening, consider adding a tablespoon of tomato paste or a cornstarch slurry towards the end of cooking. Explore related flavors by combining with dishes like Lean Beef Stroganoff or Spanish Rice Casserole.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Beef Bourguignon with crusty bread or over creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the rich sauce. Pair with a side of Hussar Salad for a refreshing contrast. A glass of the same red wine used in cooking complements the meal perfectly. This hearty dish also goes well with steamed green beans or a simple green salad.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of beef stock if the sauce thickens too much. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months, thawing overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Beef Bourguignon contains roughly 1805 calories, with 4g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 195g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (44% of the Daily Value) and iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1335mg per serving (58% of the Daily Value).

1805 kcal 90% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 4.1g 8% DV
Total Fat 194.6g 100% DV
Carbs 18.7g 7% DV
Fiber 2.8g 10% DV
Sugar 1.8g 4% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1335.5mg 58% DV
Potassium 179.6mg 4% DV
Cholesterol 0.1mg

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 22.4mcg 2% DV
Vitamin C 3.3mg 4% DV
Vitamin D 8.8mcg 44% DV
Calcium 66.6mg 5% DV
Iron 3.6mg 20% DV
Diet fit Low-carb
Contains Wheat/Gluten

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute pork or lamb for the beef, but cooking times may vary. Just ensure the meat is tender before serving. For a lighter option, try using chicken, but note that the flavor profile will change significantly.

Can I make this dish in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! After browning the beef, transfer it to a slow cooker with all the ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully and results in tender meat.

What can I serve with Beef Bourguignon?

This dish pairs well with crusty French bread, buttery mashed potatoes, or egg noodles. For a lighter side, consider a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness of the stew. A glass of red wine will enhance the dining experience.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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