Crockpot Beef Bourguignon is a comforting dish that combines tender beef with rich flavors in an easy-to-make meal. This classic French Beef Stew brings together red wine, beef broth, and a mix of vegetables like carrots, onions, and mushrooms. Letting this stew cook slowly in a crockpot not only deepens the flavors but also makes it a convenient choice for busy days.
Imagine coming home to a house filled with the savory aroma of slow-cooked beef. With a few minutes of prep time, you toss everything into the crockpot, allowing it to work its magic. The beauty of Crockpot Beef Bourguignon lies in its simplicity and the way it transforms affordable ingredients into a luxurious dinner. You can enjoy it on its own or serve it over mashed potatoes or toasted bread for a heartier meal.
Though it’s a French classic, this stew can fit into various diets with some small adjustments. If you want to make it gluten-free, simply leave out the flour or use a gluten-free thickener. For those looking to cut down on alcohol, you can replace the wine with extra beef broth. Explore the diverse flavors and comforting satisfaction this dish promises with your own personal twist.
Table of Contents
Ingredients Overview
When making Crockpot Beef Bourguignon, you'll focus on choosing the right meat, adding a mix of vegetables, selecting herbs and spices, and incorporating liquid components for flavor. This guide will help you select the best ingredients for a delicious result.
Meat Selection
For the best flavor and texture, choose beef chuck roast. This cut is perfect because it becomes tender during slow cooking. You can also use beef stew meat as an alternative, but make sure it's well-marbled for a richer taste.
Bacon adds a smoky flavor and richness. It's used to enhance the overall taste. Make sure to cook it until crispy before adding it to the slow cooker.
Vegetable Varieties
A mix of vegetables brings depth to your dish. Carrots and pearl onions are traditional choices. Carrots add a touch of sweetness, while pearl onions offer a mild, unique flavor.
Add mushrooms for an earthy taste, and sliced onions provide a more robust flavor. Several cloves of garlic are essential for fragrance and complexity. All these vegetables not only enhance taste but also give the stew a lovely texture.
Herbs and Spices
Herbs and spices are key to authentic beef bourguignon flavor. Use bay leaves and fresh thyme for aromatic depth. These herbs release their flavors slowly, making them perfect for slow cooking.
Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Experiment by adding a pinch more for a stronger kick, but always taste before serving. Herbs like dried rosemary can also add a delightful hint to your dish.
Liquid Components
The liquids bring everything together. Red wine, particularly Burgundy, is traditional. It adds richness and depth. For those curious about variations, any dry red wine could work, but the wine's quality influences flavor significantly.
Beef broth complements the wine and provides a savory base. Together with the wine, it helps tenderize the beef. A little bit of tomato paste adds umami and a touch of thickness. Use these ingredients wisely to create a balanced and delicious Crockpot Beef Bourguignon.
Preparation Technique
When making Crockpot Beef Bourguignon, there are key steps to follow for a delicious dish. These steps include properly preparing the beef, vegetables, and sauce to enhance the overall flavor and texture of the stew.
Searing the Beef
Searing the beef is an essential step in making Crockpot Beef Bourguignon. It helps lock in the juices of the beef while adding a rich flavor. Start by using beef chuck or stew meat, which you should pat dry with paper towels.
Season the meat with salt and pepper, then dust with all-purpose flour for a light coating. Heat a bit of oil in a heavy pan over medium-high heat. Add the beef in batches, making sure not to crowd the pan, and brown each piece on all sides. This gives the beef a good crust and sets the base for the rest of the flavors. Once browned, transfer the beef to the slow cooker.
Sautéing Vegetables
The next step involves sautéing vegetables like bacon, mushrooms, carrots, garlic, and pearl onions. It's important to add them to the same pan where you seared the beef to make the most of those flavorful bits left behind.
Cook the bacon first until crispy and then add the pearl onions and carrots. Sauté until they start to soften. Add the sliced mushrooms and minced garlic to the pan. Stir everything together and cook until the mushrooms turn a light brown. This enhances the taste and gives the stew a more complex flavor. Once done, these can also be added to the slow cooker with the beef.
Deglazing the Pot
Deglazing the pot is an important step to capture all flavors from the browned bits stuck to the pan's bottom.
After removing the vegetables, pour in a cup of the red wine used for the stew. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any brown bits, allowing them to mix with the wine into a delicious sauce. Let it simmer for a few minutes to reduce slightly. Pour this flavorful wine mixture into the slow cooker along with the browned beef and veggies.
This process helps to build depth of flavor, making the beef and vegetables richer and more delicious.
Slow Cooker Guide
Using a slow cooker for Beef Bourguignon offers simplicity and convenience. Here, you'll learn how to layer ingredients effectively and set the right cooking time to ensure flavors blend perfectly and the beef turns tender.
Layering Ingredients
Proper layering is crucial for even cooking and balanced flavors in Crockpot Beef Bourguignon. Start by placing the beef stew meat at the bottom. This allows the juices and oils to flow downward, infusing flavor. Next, add vegetables like onions, carrots, celery, and garlic. These provide a base of natural sweetness.
Pour the red wine and beef stock over the top. These liquids are important as they carry flavors through the stew while also softening the beef. Finally, sprinkle herbs such as thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves. These add depth and aroma. If you prefer a thicker sauce, consider adding flour toward the end of cooking to create a slurry.
Cooking Duration and Settings
Cooking time is key to achieving tender beef and luscious sauce. For the slow cooker, set the heat to low and cook for 8 to 9 hours. This method gently melds flavors, making the beef extremely tender.
If you’re pressed for time, cooking on high for 4 to 5 hours works too. The heat will accelerate softening while still delivering a tasty dish. Be attentive to the beef's tenderness as time can vary slightly depending on your slow cooker's model and capacity. Adjust times as needed to achieve your desired tenderness.
RECIPE: Crockpot Beef Bourguignon
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs beef stew meat, cubed
- 1 bottle (750 ml) red wine
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 3 celery stalks, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp flour (optional, for thickening)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Put the beef stew meat into the crockpot.
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Pour in the red wine and beef broth.
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Add the onion, carrots, and celery.
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Mix in the garlic, mushrooms, and tomato paste.
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Sprinkle in the thyme and rosemary, then add the bay leaves.
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Season with salt and pepper. Stir everything to mix well.
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Cook on low for 8 to 9 hours or on high for 4 to 5 hours until the beef is tender.
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If you want thicker sauce, blend flour and water, then stir it in.
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Top with fresh parsley and serve hot.
This rich and flavorful dish is perfect for a cozy meal. Enjoy it as it fills your kitchen with wonderful aromas.
Serving Suggestions
When serving Crockpot Beef Bourguignon, there are both classic and contemporary ways to complete your meal. Traditional sides like mashed potatoes or pasta are timeless favorites. For those seeking a modern touch, try pairing it with different textures and flavors. Don't forget the garnishes that enhance the dish's presentation and taste.
Traditional Accompaniments
To enjoy Beef Bourguignon the traditional way, pair it with mashed potatoes. The creaminess of the potatoes complements the rich stew. Simply prepare your favorite mashed potatoes recipe, and serve the beef on top or alongside.
Egg noodles are another classic option. Their smooth texture makes them ideal for soaking up the flavorful sauce. Cook the noodles according to the package instructions, then serve with generous ladles of the stew over the top.
Crusty bread offers a satisfying crunch. A fresh baguette or sourdough works well, allowing you to scoop up every last bit of sauce. Slice the bread and serve it warm for a comforting side.
Modern Twists
For a fresh take, serve Beef Bourguignon with a green salad. Choose leafy greens like spinach or arugula, and add a simple vinaigrette. The salad's bright flavors provide a nice contrast to the stew's richness.
Another modern twist is serving the dish over cauliflower rice. This is a great low-carb option that adds a subtle nutty taste. Prepare the cauliflower rice by chopping or grating the florets, then steam or sauté until tender.
Consider offering polenta as an alternative. Its creamy texture pairs beautifully with the stew's hearty elements. Cook the polenta until smooth, and serve it hot with the stew on top.
Garnishing Tips
Adding fresh parsley before serving not only enhances the look of the dish but also adds a burst of flavor. Chop the parsley finely and sprinkle it over each serving.
Pearl onions or crispy bacon bits can elevate the dish's taste and presentation. You can sauté pearl onions separately and scatter them on top. For a smoky touch, use cooked bacon bits as a garnish.
Storing and Reheating
Making sure your Crockpot Beef Bourguignon stays fresh is key. Proper storage and reheating can help keep its rich flavors.
Short-Term Storage
If you have leftovers and plan to eat them within a few days, put them in airtight containers. Store these in the refrigerator. It’s best to enjoy the leftovers within 3 to 4 days to keep them tasting fresh. Before placing in the fridge, make sure the stew is at room temperature. This prevents excess moisture and helps maintain texture and taste.
Using ziplock bags is another handy option if you are short on space. Bags can be flattened and stacked, taking up less room in the fridge. Remember to label them with the date so you know when to use them.
Freezing Instructions
Beef Bourguignon can also be frozen if you want to keep it for longer. Divide the stew into portions and store in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Freezing in smaller portions helps it freeze faster and ensures even thawing.
Label these with the freezing date, ideally using them within 2 to 3 months for the best flavor. To refresh its taste after freezing, add a splash of beef broth or wine when reheating.
Reheating for Best Flavor
Reheating your Beef Bourguignon can be done in a few ways. For the best results, use an oven. Preheat to 325°F (165°C) and place the stew in an oven-safe dish, covering with foil to keep in moisture.
Heat for 20-30 minutes, depending on the amount. Stir halfway through. If you're in a hurry, use a microwave. Set the power to medium, heat for a few minutes, and stir midway. Add some liquid if it seems dry.
Frequently Asked Questions
When making crockpot beef bourguignon, the ingredients and choices can influence the flavor and texture. Here are some things to consider, like the best cuts of beef, substitutions for wine, and serving ideas.
What cut of beef is best for beef bourguignon?
The best cuts for beef bourguignon are chuck roast or beef stewing cubes. These cuts become tender after slow cooking and absorb the flavors well. They are more affordable and great for long, slow cooking.
What type of red wine should I use?
A full-bodied red wine such as Burgundy, Merlot, or Cabernet Sauvignon works well. These wines add depth to the dish, making it rich and flavorful.
Can I make this recipe without wine?
Yes, you can use extra beef broth in place of wine. The flavor will be different, but it will still result in a tasty dish.
What can I use if I don't have beef broth?
You can substitute beef broth with vegetable broth or chicken broth if needed. You can also mix water with a beef bouillon cube as an alternative.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried thyme and rosemary?
Fresh herbs can be used instead of dried ones. Use about one tablespoon of fresh thyme and rosemary each, chopping them finely. Fresh herbs bring a vibrant flavor to the dish.
Can I use a different type of mushroom?
Button mushrooms are commonly used, but you can swap them for cremini, portobello, or shiitake mushrooms to enhance flavor.
What's the difference between beef bourguignon and beef stew?
Beef bourguignon is a French recipe, known for slow cooking beef in red wine. Beef stew mainly uses broth. Beef bourguignon tends to have a richer, deeper taste due to the wine.
Is it possible to overcook beef bourguignon?
Yes, overcooking can happen if left too long. The beef could become mushy or dry. Follow cooking times closely for the best results.
How do I prevent the beef from becoming tough?
Browning the beef before adding it to the crockpot can help keep it tender. Low and slow cooking ensures the beef stays juicy.
What are some good serving suggestions for beef bourguignon?
Beef bourguignon can be served with mashed potatoes, crusty bread, or over wide noodles. A fresh green salad or steamed green beans complement it nicely, too.
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