When I think of comfort food, one dish immediately comes to mind: Beef Bourguignon. This French classic is a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for cold nights or when you want something hearty.
It’s the kind of meal that pairs beautifully with crusty bread for dipping or a fresh green salad to balance the richness. However, for those special gatherings, it also goes well with a robust red wine, making it the star of any dinner party.
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Welcome to my culinary adventure where I’m thrilled to share an easy, hearty recipe for Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon. You may be wondering, “What’s in it for me?”
Well, this dish not only delivers on flavor but also allows you to live a stress-free cooking experience due to the slow-cooking convenience.
Yes, you can go about your day while your kitchen works its magic, transforming simple ingredients into an exquisite meal.
I’m a registered dietitian and food enthusiast, and I’ve whipped up countless recipes over the years. My goal has always been to create dishes that are not only delicious but also easy to replicate.
With a busy life and a love for cooking, I often tweak traditional recipes to save time while keeping them irresistibly tasty. So, buckle up; let’s dive into the delicious world of Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon!
What is Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon?
At its core, Beef Bourguignon is a braised beef dish that originated in the Burgundy region of France. Traditionally made with red wine, this dish showcases tender meat simmered with hearty vegetables.
Now, toss in a slow cooker, and you get a hands-off method that makes this wonderful meal even more accessible.
What makes the slow cooker version shine is the convenience it brings to your kitchen. Just toss in the ingredients, set it, and forget it! Imagine coming home after a long day to the intoxicating smell of beef, wine, and herbs wafting in your kitchen. Who wouldn’t love that?
What is the Flavor Profile of This Dish?
The flavor profile of Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon is simply divine. Picture this: tender chunks of beef soaking in a rich, velvety sauce infused with red wine. Think earthy flavors from the mushrooms and the freshness of thyme.
When you add in the sweetness of carrots and the salty depth from bacon, you experience a symphony of tastes in each bite.
The cooking process transforms the ingredients, allowing them to meld together beautifully. The wine reduces, intensifying its flavor while also tenderizing the meat.
You will notice that each ingredient complements and enhances the others, resulting in a dish that feels like a warm embrace on a chilly evening.
What Makes This Recipe Different From Other Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon?
Many recipes call for tedious steps like browning the meat or fussing over specific cooking times. However, I’ve streamlined my version without sacrificing flavor.
- Simplicity: No tricky steps. Just prepare the ingredients, toss them into the slow cooker, and let it do the work.
- Flavor Boosting: Using key ingredients like smoked paprika and light soy sauce gives my recipe that extra oomph. They add layers of flavor without requiring extra effort.
- Ingredient Options: This recipe allows for substitutions. If you’re out of something, alternatives work just as well, making it practical for impromptu cooking.
Ultimately, this Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon embodies comfort and ease, allowing you to achieve a gourmet result without stressful techniques.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To whip up this delightful dish, gather the following ingredients:
- 3 pounds of boneless beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- ¼ cup of all-purpose flour
- 1 cup of dry red cooking wine
- 1 bay leaf
- 3 cloves of garlic, finely minced
- ½ cup of rich tomato purée
- 2 tablespoons of fresh thyme, finely chopped
- 5 medium carrots, thinly sliced
- 8 ounces of fresh mushrooms, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup of light soy sauce
- 2 cups of low-sodium chicken stock
- 5 slices of bacon, chopped into small pieces
- 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
- 1 pound of whole baby potatoes
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Step by Step Directions
Step 1: Prep the Beef
Begin by cutting your beef chuck into bite-sized cubes. This ensures the meat cooks evenly. Season it with salt and pepper generously. Then, dust the chunks with flour; this will help in thickening the sauce later.
Step 2: Brown the Bacon
Using a skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. This adds a smoky flavor. Once browned, transfer the bacon to the slow cooker but save the fat in the skillet.
Step 3: Sear the Beef
In the same skillet, sear the beef in batches until browned on all sides. This caramelization gives depth to the flavor. Don’t overcrowd the skillet; you’ll want to achieve that lovely brown crust.
Step 4: Create the Flavor Base
After browning the meat, add the minced garlic to the skillet and stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Now, pour in the red wine and scrape the bottom of the skillet. This is where you’ll gather all those wonderful browned bits. Bring it to a simmer and then pour the mixture into the slow cooker.
Step 5: Add the Remaining Ingredients
Now it’s time to layer the remaining ingredients in the slow cooker. Add the bay leaf, tomato purée, thyme, carrots, mushrooms, and baby potatoes.
Then, in a separate bowl, mix the soy sauce and chicken stock. Pour this mixture over the ingredients in the slow cooker.
Step 6: Slow Cook
Cover the slow cooker and set it on low for about 8 hours or high for around 4 hours. This is the wonderful part when your kitchen fills with amazing aromas.
Step 7: Serve
Once the time is up, remove the bay leaf, and stir everything together. Adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley. Enjoy!
Tips On Making Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon
To enhance your dish even further, consider these handy tips:
- Choose the Right Cut: Chuck roast is ideal due to its fat content, which keeps the meat moist.
- Wine Matters: Use a good quality wine that you would drink. The flavor will significantly influence the dish’s outcome.
- Let it Rest: After cooking, let the dish sit for a few minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
- Make It Ahead: This dish tastes even better the next day. Make it a day in advance and reheat for a delightful flavor boost.
- Extra Veggies: Feel free to add other veggies like peas or corn for added texture and nutrients.
Nutrition Information
Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon Nutrition Facts
How Can I Store This Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon?
If you have leftovers, you’re in for a treat! Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
For longer storage, freeze it in individual portions for up to three months. Just be sure to let it defrost in the fridge overnight before reheating on the stove or microwave.
What If I Don’t Have These Ingredients?
Sometimes, even the best planned meals run into ingredient shortages! Here’s how to adapt:
- Beef Chuck: Use brisket or round roast. Both cuts can work well and are often more affordable.
- Red Cooking Wine: Substitute with beef broth or grape juice. This may change the flavor slightly, but it will keep the moisture.
- Whole Baby Potatoes: Opt for diced regular potatoes or Yukon Gold. Just adjust cooking times to ensure they’re tender.
- Soy Sauce: Try Tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option. Both bring a similar umami flavor to the dish.
Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon
Equipment
- Slow Cooker
Ingredients
- 3 pounds of boneless beef chuck cut into 1-inch cubes
- ¼ cup of all-purpose flour
- 1 cup of dry red cooking wine
- 1 bay leaf
- 3 cloves of garlic finely minced
- ½ cup of rich tomato purée
- 2 tablespoons of fresh thyme finely chopped
- 5 medium carrots thinly sliced
- 8 ounces of fresh mushrooms thinly sliced
- ¼ cup of light soy sauce
- 2 cups of low-sodium chicken stock
- 5 slices of bacon chopped into small pieces
- 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
- 1 pound of whole baby potatoes
- Fresh parsley chopped, for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Beef
- Begin by cutting your beef chuck into bite-sized cubes. This ensures the meat cooks evenly. Season it with salt and pepper generously. Then, dust the chunks with flour; this will help in thickening the sauce later.
Step 2: Brown the Bacon
- Using a skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. This adds a smoky flavor. Once browned, transfer the bacon to the slow cooker but save the fat in the skillet.
Step 3: Sear the Beef
- In the same skillet, sear the beef in batches until browned on all sides. This caramelization gives depth to the flavor. Don’t overcrowd the skillet; you’ll want to achieve that lovely brown crust.
Step 4: Create the Flavor Base
- After browning the meat, add the minced garlic to the skillet and stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Now, pour in the red wine and scrape the bottom of the skillet. This is where you’ll gather all those wonderful browned bits. Bring it to a simmer and then pour the mixture into the slow cooker.
Step 5: Add the Remaining Ingredients
- Now it’s time to layer the remaining ingredients in the slow cooker. Add the bay leaf, tomato purée, thyme, carrots, mushrooms, and baby potatoes.
- Then, in a separate bowl, mix the soy sauce and chicken stock. Pour this mixture over the ingredients in the slow cooker.
Step 6: Slow Cook
- Cover the slow cooker and set it on low for about 8 hours or high for around 4 hours. This is the wonderful part when your kitchen fills with amazing aromas.
Step 7: Serve
- Once the time is up, remove the bay leaf, and stir everything together. Adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley. Enjoy!
Notes
- Choose the Right Cut: Chuck roast is ideal due to its fat content, which keeps the meat moist.
- Wine Matters: Use a good quality wine that you would drink. The flavor will significantly influence the dish’s outcome.
- Let it Rest: After cooking, let the dish sit for a few minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
- Make It Ahead: This dish tastes even better the next day. Make it a day in advance and reheat for a delightful flavor boost.
- Extra Veggies: Feel free to add other veggies like peas or corn for added texture and nutrients.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I cook this dish on high heat instead of low heat?
Absolutely! Cooking on high heat is a great option if you’re short on time. It will take about 4 to 5 hours. However, the meat might not be as tender as when cooked slowly.
2. Can I use frozen beef for this recipe?
While it’s not ideal, you can use frozen beef. Just cook it without thawing, but this will increase your cooking time. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
3. What are good side dishes to serve with Beef Bourguignon?
This rich dish pairs splendidly with crusty French bread, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad to cut through the richness.
4. How can I ensure my beef stays tender?
Braising slowly is key. Using a touch of acidity from the wine also helps break down the tough fibers, resulting in melt-in-your-mouth beef.
5. Can this be made vegetarian?
Yes! Replace beef with hearty mushrooms or seitan, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock. You’ll still enjoy a deeply satisfying meal
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon combines bold flavors with simplicity, making it a go-to recipe for busy nights.
Through my kitchen experiments, I’ve learned how a great dish can bring comfort and togetherness to the table. With minimal effort, you can create a meal that feels extraordinary.
So, gather your ingredients, use that slow cooker, and let time work its magic.
Trust me; your taste buds will thank you! Enjoy your culinary journey and share this delightful recipe with friends and family. Happy cooking!
