When the leaves begin to fall and the air carries that crisp chill, my mind inevitably drifts to the comforting embrace of a hearty meal—something like a warm hug for the soul. This Easy Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon is just the ticket, simmering away to create a rich, savory symphony of flavors that transforms a simple dinner into a cozy masterpiece. Imagine coming home after a long day, the aroma of beef and wine gently welcoming you at the door—it’s like a little slice of heaven!
Steps
- Cook diced bacon in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it becomes crispy. Transfer the cooked bacon to a slow cooker.
- Season the beef chuck pieces with salt and pepper, then brown them in the skillet for 2-3 minutes on each side. Move the browned beef to the slow cooker.
- Pour red cooking wine into the skillet, scraping the brown bits from the sides. Allow it to simmer and reduce before gradually adding chicken broth, tomato sauce, and soy sauce. Stir in flour slowly until it’s well mixed.
- Transfer the sauce into the slow cooker, then add minced garlic, thyme, sliced carrots, baby potatoes, and mushrooms. Stir everything together.
- Cook on low heat for 8-10 hours or on high for 6 hours until the beef is tender. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving, and accompany with mashed potatoes if you like.
Ingredients
- 5 slices of diced bacon
- 3 pounds of boneless beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 cup of red cooking wine
- 2 cups of chicken broth
- 1/2 cup of tomato sauce
- 1/4 cup of soy sauce
- 1/4 cup of flour (or cornstarch for a gluten-free option)
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons of fresh thyme, minced
- 5 medium carrots, sliced
- 1 pound of baby potatoes
- 8 ounces of fresh mushrooms, sliced
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Nutritional Values
Calories: 1810kcal | Carbohydrates: 220g | Protein: 70g | Fat: 80g | Saturated Fat: 30g | Cholesterol: 120mg | Sodium: 10620mg | Potassium: 6460mg | Fiber: 30g | Sugar: 20g | Vitamin A: 1990IU | Vitamin C: 270mg | Calcium: 310mg | Iron: 20mg
FAQ
- Can you make Beef Bourguignon on the stove or in the oven?
- Yes, Beef Bourguignon can be prepared using different methods, including on the stove or in the oven. For a stove and oven recipe, consider trying a traditional Beef Bourguignon approach.
- What type of meat is best for Beef Bourguignon?
- The most convenient choice is beef stew meat, but boneless beef chuck is also a great option if you cut it into cubes. Brisket is another excellent choice for this dish.
- Which red wine should be used in Beef Bourguignon?
- A dark Burgundy wine is preferred, though Pinot Noir or Chianti are also good options. The wine enhances the stew’s rich flavor and is safe for everyone since the alcohol cooks out.
- What should Beef Bourguignon be served with?
- To complete the meal, serve Beef Bourguignon with potatoes, noodles, or rice, and consider adding a side salad. A crusty baguette or dinner roll pairs well for soaking up the sauce.
- How can you store and reheat Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon?
- Beef Bourguignon can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months in freezer bags. Reheat in a slow cooker on a low setting for about four hours or until thoroughly warmed.
Tips
- Brown the Beef for Extra Flavor: Before transferring the beef to the slow cooker, sear it in a skillet. This step ensures the beef develops a crispy outer layer and locks in flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the stew.
- Choose the Right Wine: While the alcohol in the red wine cooks out, it is essential for adding depth and richness to the sauce. If you’re not a wine drinker, consider using a dark burgundy wine, Pinot Noir, or Chianti for the best results.
- Enhance the Flavor with Fresh Ingredients: Utilize fresh garlic, thyme, and onions wherever possible. Fresh ingredients contribute more robust flavors compared to their dried or frozen counterparts.
- Make Ahead for Better Flavor: Preparing the stew a day in advance allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a more flavorful dish. Store it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat when ready to serve.
Equipment
- Slow Cooker (Crockpot)
- Large Skillet (such as a Cast Iron Skillet)
- Whisk
