Are you ready to elevate your weeknight dinners? Imagine sinking your teeth into tender, melt-in-your-mouth beef, bathed in a rich, deeply flavorful red wine sauce. This isn't a dream; it's the magic of Beef Bourguignon, slow-cooked to perfection in your trusty Le Creuset braiser. This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a delicious and impressive dish, perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion. It's one of those healthy meals that feels incredibly indulgent without all the fuss. Get ready to experience the joy of homemade cooking at its finest! This easy recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 8 oz cremini mushrooms, quartered
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 bottle (750ml) dry red wine (Burgundy is traditional!)
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 lb small pearl onions, peeled
- 1/2 lb bacon, diced (optional, but adds amazing flavor)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Sear the Beef
Pat the beef cubes dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in your Le Creuset braiser over medium-high heat. Working in batches to avoid overcrowding, sear the beef until nicely browned on all sides. Remove the beef from the braiser and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Add the bacon (if using) to the braiser and cook until crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot. Add the onion, carrots, and celery to the braiser and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the mushrooms and garlic and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
Step 3: Build the Flavor
Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Gradually whisk in the red wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the braiser. Add the beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, and bay leaf. Bring to a simmer.
Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection
Return the seared beef to the braiser. Add the pearl onions and any reserved bacon. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then cover the braiser and transfer it to a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C). Cook for at least 2.5-3 hours, or until the beef is incredibly tender. The longer it simmers, the more delicious it becomes!
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Once the beef is cooked, remove the bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot with crusty bread to soak up all that delicious sauce. This is truly one of the best recipes for a satisfying and flavorful meal.
Cooking Tips for Best Results:
- Use good quality beef: The better the beef, the better the Bourguignon!
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Sear the beef in batches to ensure proper browning.
- Deglaze the pan: Scraping up the browned bits from the bottom of the braiser adds depth of flavor to the sauce.
- Low and slow is key: Patience is rewarded with incredibly tender beef.
- Adjust cooking time: Depending on your oven and the size of your beef cubes, you may need to adjust the cooking time.
Variations:
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like potatoes, parsnips, or turnips.
- Use different mushrooms: Shiitake or portobello mushrooms would also be delicious.
- Make it spicier: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Protein: Approximately 35-40g
- Fat: Approximately 25-30g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20g
This Beef Bourguignon is a testament to the power of slow cooking and the beauty of simple, quality ingredients. It's a delicious dish that's perfect for any occasion, and it's sure to become a new family favorite. Enjoy!