beef bourguignon recipe uk

The Flavours of France: A Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe UK

Beef Bourguignon, a quintessential French dish, is a staple of haute cuisine that has been delighting palates for centuries. This rich, flavorful stew originating from the Burgundy region is a masterclass in slow-cooked comfort food. In this article, we'll guide you through a classic Beef Bourguignon recipe UK-style, perfect for a chilly evening or a special occasion.

A Brief History of Beef Bourguignon

Beef Bourguignon, also known as Boeuf Bourguignon, has its roots in medieval France. The dish was originally cooked by peasants, who would slow-cook tougher cuts of beef in red wine to make them tender and flavorful. Over time, the recipe evolved, and the addition of onions, mushrooms, and bacon transformed it into the iconic dish we know today.

Ingredients for Beef Bourguignon Recipe UK

To create an authentic Beef Bourguignon, you'll need the following ingredients:

For the beef:

• 1.5 kg beef brisket or shin, cut into 2-inch cubes
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the aromatics:

• 2 medium onions, thinly sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 stalks celery, sliced

For the red wine sauce:

• 1 bottle red wine (Burgundy or similar)
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary

For the mushrooms:

• 250g mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
• 2 tablespoons butter

Beef Bourguignon Recipe UK Instructions

Preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F). In a large Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the beef cubes and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove the beef from the pot and set it aside.

Add the sliced onions to the pot and cook until they're softened and caramelized, stirring occasionally. This will take about 20-25 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.

Add the sliced carrots and celery to the pot, cooking for 5 minutes until they're tender. Add the browned beef back to the pot, along with the red wine, tomato paste, beef broth, thyme, and rosemary. Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven.

Braise the Beef Bourguignon in the oven for 2-3 hours, or until the beef is tender and falls apart easily. About 30 minutes before serving, add the sliced mushrooms to the pot and cook until they're tender and the sauce has thickened.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Beef Bourguignon with crusty bread, such as a baguette or ciabatta, to mop up the rich sauce. You can also serve it with egg noodles, mashed potatoes, or polenta for a heartier meal. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme for a pop of color and freshness.

With this classic Beef Bourguignon recipe UK-style, you'll be transported to the rolling hills of Burgundy, surrounded by the rich flavors and aromas of French cuisine. Bon appétit!