Chef’s Special French Beef Stew: A Flavorful Journey Through Classic French Cuisine

Chef’s Special French Beef Stew: A Flavorful Journey Through Classic French Cuisine

This hearty French Beef Stew, also known as “Boeuf Bourguignon,” is a flavorful dish rich in meat, vegetables, and red wine. It is a classic French recipe that is perfect for a cozy dinner. This version brings authentic, deep flavors to your table and ensures that every bite is a warming delight.

Ingredients ###

For the stew:
– 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 2-inch cubes
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup flour
– 6 slices of bacon, chopped
– 2 large carrots, peeled and sliced into large chunks
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 2 cups red wine (preferably Burgundy)
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 bay leaf
– 4 sprigs fresh thyme
– 1 lb baby potatoes, halved
– Salt and pepper to taste

For the garnish:
– 1/2 lb mushrooms, sliced
– 2 tbsp butter
– Fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions ###

1. Preparing the Beef:
– Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
– Pat the beef dry with paper towels, then season with salt and pepper. Toss the beef in flour to coat evenly.
– Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef in batches and brown on all sides. Remove and set aside.

2. Cooking the Bacon and Vegetables:
– In the same pot, cook the bacon until crisp. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.
– Add the carrots and onion to the pot and cook until they start to soften, about 5-7 minutes.
– Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.

3. Combining Ingredients:
– Stir in the tomato paste, cooking for another minute.
– Pour in the red wine and beef broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
– Return the beef and bacon to the pot. Add the bay leaf and thyme.

4. Braising the Stew:
– Add the potatoes, ensuring they are submerged in the liquid.
– Cover the pot and transfer to the preheated oven. Cook for 2 1/2 to 3 hours, until the meat is tender and the sauce has thickened.

5. Preparing the Garnish:
– About 15 minutes before the stew is done, melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat.
– Add the mushrooms and cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.

6. Finishing the Stew:
– Remove the stew from the oven and discard the bay leaf and thyme sprigs.
– Stir in the cooked mushrooms.

7. Serving:
– Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
– Enjoy this flavorful French Beef Stew with a crusty baguette or over mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce.