recipe beef bourguignon uk

What is Beef Bourguignon?

Beef Bourguignon, also known as Boeuf Bourguignon, is a classic French dish originating from the Burgundy region. It's a hearty, rich, and flavorful beef stew cooked in red wine, stock, and aromatics, resulting in tender, fall-apart meat and a velvety sauce. This iconic recipe has been a staple of French cuisine for centuries and is often served in fine dining restaurants around the world.

A Brief History of Beef Bourguignon

The origins of Beef Bourguignon can be traced back to the medieval period, when peasants in the Burgundy region would slow-cook tougher cuts of beef in wine and broth to make them palatable. Over time, the recipe evolved, and by the 19th century, it had become a beloved dish among the French aristocracy. Today, Beef Bourguignon remains a beloved national dish, often served at special occasions and family gatherings.

Our UK-Inspired Recipe for Beef Bourguignon

In this article, we'll share a UK-inspired recipe for Beef Bourguignon that's easy to prepare and packed with flavor. Our recipe serves 4-6 people and can be prepared in under 2 hours, making it an ideal option for a special occasion or a cozy night in with friends and family.

Ingredients:

• 1 kg beef brisket or chuck, cut into 2-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 cup red wine (such as Burgundy or Côtes du Rhône)
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons butter

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.
2. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery to the pot and cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
3. Add the red wine, beef broth, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf to the pot. Stir to combine, then return the beef to the pot.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover the pot and transfer it to the oven. Cook at 300°F (150°C) for 1 1/2 hours, or until the beef is tender.
5. Remove the pot from the oven and stir in the flour to thicken the sauce. Add the butter and stir until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve the Beef Bourguignon hot, garnished with fresh parsley and crusty bread on the side.

Tips and Variations:

• Use a good-quality red wine that you'd be happy to drink, as it will greatly impact the flavor of the dish.
• For a richer sauce, add 1-2 tablespoons of tomato paste to the pot along with the vegetables.
• Serve the Beef Bourguignon with egg noodles, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread for a comforting meal.
• Make the dish ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze it for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat, adding more broth if needed to achieve the desired consistency.

Conclusion:

Our UK-inspired recipe for Beef Bourguignon is a hearty, flavorful, and comforting dish that's sure to become a favorite in your household. With its rich history, tender meat, and velvety sauce, this classic French recipe is an ideal option for special occasions or cozy nights in. Bon appétit!