beef bourguignon recipe uk slow cooker

The Flavors of France in a UK Kitchen: Beef Bourguignon Recipe for Slow Cooker

Beef Bourguignon, a classic French dish, is a staple of haute cuisine that has been winning hearts for centuries. This rich, flavorful stew originated from the Burgundy region of France, and its name is derived from the French words "boeuf" meaning beef and "Bourgogne" meaning Burgundy. In this article, we'll explore a simplified Beef Bourguignon recipe tailored for the UK slow cooker enthusiasts, allowing you to savor the authentic taste of France in the comfort of your own home.

A Brief History of Beef Bourguignon

Beef Bourguignon has a long and storied history, dating back to the 17th century. This peasant dish was originally made with tougher cuts of beef, simmered in red wine to tenderize the meat and create a rich, flavorful broth. Over time, the recipe evolved, and the dish became a staple of French haute cuisine. Today, Beef Bourguignon is enjoyed not only in France but also around the world, with each region adding its own twist to the classic recipe.

UK Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon Recipe

In this recipe, we'll use a UK slow cooker to prepare a hearty, comforting Beef Bourguignon that's perfect for a chilly evening. This recipe serves 4-6 people and can be prepared in under 30 minutes, with the slow cooker doing the rest of the work.

Ingredients:

• 1 kg beef brisket or chuck, cut into 2-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 cup red wine (Burgundy or Merlot)
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove the browned beef from the pan and set aside.

2. Add the chopped onion to the pan and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

3. Add the chopped carrots and celery to the pan and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. Add the red wine to the pan, scraping the bottom to release any browned bits. Bring the wine to a simmer and cook until reduced by half, about 5 minutes.

5. Add the beef broth, thyme, and bay leaf to the pan. Stir to combine, then return the browned beef to the pan.

6. Transfer the mixture to a UK slow cooker and cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.

7. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the flour to thicken the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

8. Serve the Beef Bourguignon hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired. Traditionally, this dish is served with crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or egg noodles.

Tips and Variations

For an added depth of flavor, use a mixture of red and white wine or add a tablespoon of tomato paste to the sauce. You can also add mushrooms, pearl onions, or bacon to the dish for added texture and flavor. Experiment with different herbs, such as rosemary or parsley, to create a unique twist on the classic recipe.

With this simplified UK slow cooker Beef Bourguignon recipe, you can enjoy the rich flavors of France in the comfort of your own home. Bon appétit!