Beef Bourguignon–Style Stew with Bacon

Beef Bourguignon–Style Stew with Bacon is a comforting dish that warms the heart and delights the palate. This rich and savory stew combines tender beef, crispy bacon, and earthy mushrooms, making it perfect for cozy family dinners or special gatherings. With its deep flavors and inviting aroma, this dish stands out as a classic favorite that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The combination of red wine and beef stock creates a deep, satisfying taste.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for cold nights or festive occasions, this stew impresses on any table.
• Comfort Food: Hearty ingredients make it a fulfilling meal that warms you from the inside out.
• Easy to Prepare: Simple steps allow you to enjoy delicious homemade stew without complicated techniques.
• Leftover Friendly: This stew tastes even better the next day, making it great for meal prep.

Tools and Preparation

To achieve the best results when making Beef Bourguignon–Style Stew with Bacon, having the right tools on hand is essential. These tools will ensure your cooking process is smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven
• Skillet
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven: Ideal for slow cooking, it retains heat well and evenly distributes it throughout the stew.
• Skillet: Perfect for sautéing vegetables and browning meat before adding them to the stew.

Ingredients

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 3 hours (including oven braise)
Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes

For the Stew Base

• 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1½-inch cubes
• 6 slices thick-cut bacon, diced
• 1 large yellow onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced

For Flavoring

• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups dry red wine
• 2 cups beef stock
• 1 bay leaf
• 3 sprigs fresh thyme

For Finishing Touches

• 1 lb cremini mushrooms, halved
• 12 pearl onions, peeled
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

How to Make Beef Bourguignon–Style Stew with Bacon

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 °F (175 °C).

Step 2: Render Bacon

In a large Dutch oven over medium heat:
* Cook diced bacon until crispy.
* Remove bacon from pot and set aside, leaving the fat in the pot.

Step 3: Brown the Beef

Season beef cubes with salt and pepper:
1. In batches, brown beef in the reserved bacon fat until well-seared.
2. Transfer browned beef to a plate.

Step 4: Sauté Vegetables

Add onion and carrots to the pot:
1. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in minced garlic and tomato paste; cook for an additional minute.

Step 5: Thicken Base

Sprinkle flour over vegetables:
1. Stir well to combine.
2. Cook for about 1-2 minutes.

Step 6: Deglaze & Combine

Gradually pour in red wine while scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot:
1. Add beef stock, bay leaf, thyme, browned beef, and reserved bacon bits.
2. Bring mixture to a simmer.

Step 7: Braise

Cover pot with a lid:
1. Transfer to preheated oven.
2. Cook for about 2½ hours, stirring once halfway through.

Step 8: Prepare Mushrooms & Pearl Onions

In a skillet over medium heat:
1. Heat butter and olive oil together.
2. Sauté mushrooms and pearl onions until golden brown, approximately 8 minutes.

Step 9: Finish Stew

During the last 30 minutes of braising:
1. Stir sautéed mushrooms and pearl onions into the stew.
2. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper before serving.
3. Remove bay leaf and thyme sprigs prior to serving.

Now you’re ready to serve your delicious Beef Bourguignon–Style Stew with Bacon! Enjoy every flavorful bite!

How to Serve Beef Bourguignon–Style Stew with Bacon

Serving Beef Bourguignon–Style Stew with Bacon is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with a few thoughtful touches. This rich and hearty dish pairs well with a variety of accompaniments that elevate its flavors.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• A warm, crusty baguette is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.

Serve Over Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy mashed potatoes provide a smooth base that complements the stew’s richness.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkling chopped parsley or thyme on top adds freshness and color.

Add a Side Salad

• A light mixed greens salad balances the hearty stew and adds crunch.

Offer a Cheese Platter

• A selection of cheeses can enhance the dining experience, adding different textures and flavors.

Accompany with Red Wine

• A glass of dry red wine pairs beautifully, echoing the flavors in the stew.

How to Perfect Beef Bourguignon–Style Stew with Bacon

Perfecting your Beef Bourguignon–Style Stew with Bacon requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to help you achieve a flavorful dish every time.

• Choose Quality Ingredients: Using high-quality beef and fresh vegetables significantly enhances flavor.
• Brown the Meat Well: Ensure beef cubes are browned thoroughly for added depth of flavor.
• Don’t Rush the Braise: Allowing sufficient time for braising helps tenderize the meat and deepen the sauce.
• Use Homemade Stock: If possible, use homemade beef stock for richer flavor compared to store-bought options.
• Adjust Seasoning Before Serving: Always taste and adjust salt and pepper before serving to balance flavors perfectly.

Best Side Dishes for Beef Bourguignon–Style Stew with Bacon

When enjoying Beef Bourguignon–Style Stew with Bacon, consider these delightful side dishes that complement its robust taste. Each option adds variety to your meal.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic create a perfect pairing.
2. Roasted Root Vegetables: Carrots, parsnips, and turnips roasted until caramelized add natural sweetness.
3. Buttery Noodles: Simple egg noodles tossed in butter offer a comforting side.
4. Green Beans Almondine: Crisp green beans sautéed with almonds add crunch and nutrition.
5. Ratatouille: This vegetable medley provides freshness and color alongside the rich stew.
6. Savory Biscuit Scones: Fluffy scones infused with herbs can be great for dipping into the stew.
7. Polenta: Creamy polenta offers a unique texture that pairs well with the sauce.
8. French Fries or Pommes Frites: Crispy fries bring a fun twist to this classic dish while providing crunch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Beef Bourguignon–Style Stew with Bacon, it’s easy to make some common errors. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:

• Incorrect Meat Selection: Choosing lean cuts will result in a dry stew. Always opt for well-marbled beef chuck for tenderness and flavor.
• Skipping the Browning Step: Not browning the beef and bacon can lead to a lack of depth in flavor. Take the time to sear these ingredients properly.
• Ignoring Seasoning: Under-seasoning can leave your stew bland. Don’t forget to taste as you go and adjust salt and pepper accordingly.
• Rushing the Cooking Time: This stew needs time to develop flavors. Avoid cutting short the braising time; let it simmer for at least 2 ½ hours.
• Overcrowding the Pan: Adding too much beef at once will steam rather than brown it. Brown in batches to ensure even cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the stew to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Beef Bourguignon–Style Stew with Bacon

• Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bags for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space in containers as the stew may expand when frozen.

Reheating Beef Bourguignon–Style Stew with Bacon

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 °F (175 °C). Place the stew in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat until warm.
• Microwave: Transfer portions into a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power in 1-minute increments, stirring between each.
• Stovetop: Pour into a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Beef Bourguignon–Style Stew with Bacon:

Can I use other types of meat?

You can substitute lamb or chicken, but adjust cooking times accordingly as they may require less braising time.

How do I make this stew gluten-free?

Use gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose flour for thickening and ensure your stock is also gluten-free.

What sides pair well with Beef Bourguignon–Style Stew with Bacon?

Serve with crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad to balance the rich flavors of the stew.

Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add root vegetables like potatoes or parsnips for added texture and flavor.

Final Thoughts

Beef Bourguignon–Style Stew with Bacon is a comforting dish perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Its rich flavors and tender meat make it a favorite among many. Don’t hesitate to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting seasoning levels. Enjoy making this classic recipe!