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How to Make Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon
Step 1: Brown the Beef
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef stew meat and brown it on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. This step adds a layer of flavor to the beef, so don’t skip it. Once browned, transfer the beef to the slow cooker.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic and sauté for about 2 minutes, or until softened and fragrant. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another 1 minute. This will deepen the flavor base of the dish.
Step 3: Add Wine and Broth
Pour in the red wine, scraping up any browned bits from the skillet (these are packed with flavor). Add the beef broth, and bring to a simmer. Stir in the dried thyme, bay leaves, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for about 3-4 minutes to blend the flavors, then pour it over the beef in the slow cooker.
Step 4: Add Vegetables
Add the carrots, mushrooms, and pearl onions to the slow cooker. Stir to combine everything.
Step 5: Slow Cook
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 4 hours. The beef will become incredibly tender, and the flavors will meld together beautifully.
Step 6: Thicken the Sauce
Once the cooking time is up, you may notice that the sauce is a little thin. To thicken it, mix 1 tablespoon of flour with 2 tablespoons of water to make a slurry. Stir the mixture into the slow cooker and let it cook on high for an additional 30 minutes. This will help thicken the sauce to a rich, velvety consistency.
Step 7: Serve
Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Ladle the beef and vegetables into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve with crusty bread or mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce.
Tips for the Perfect Beef Bourguignon
- Choose the Right Beef: Use beef stew meat or chuck roast cut into cubes for the best texture and flavor. These cuts become tender and juicy when slow-cooked.
- Wine Quality: While you don’t need to use an expensive bottle, choose a good quality dry red wine for the best flavor. Burgundy wine is traditional, but any dry red will work.
- Vegetables: You can substitute the carrots and mushrooms for other vegetables like potatoes or parsnips if preferred.
- Fresh Herbs: If you have access to fresh thyme, rosemary, or bay leaves, use them for an even richer taste.
- Make-Ahead: Beef Bourguignon tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. Make it a day ahead, and simply reheat before serving.
Why This Recipe Works
Slow cooking the beef allows it to become incredibly tender and soak up the full depth of flavors from the wine, broth, and herbs. The addition of vegetables, like carrots and mushrooms, balances the richness of the beef while providing texture and a natural sweetness. The slow cooker ensures everything cooks evenly without the need for constant attention, making this a perfect recipe for busy nights or weekend gatherings.
Final Thoughts
Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon is the ultimate comfort food with a gourmet twist. With minimal prep time and a slow cooking method that builds incredible depth of flavor, this dish will quickly become a family favorite or a showstopper for your next dinner party. Whether you serve it with mashed potatoes, rice, or a simple baguette, the rich sauce and tender beef will be the star of the meal. Treat yourself to a taste of French cuisine without the fuss—your slow cooker does the hard work for you!
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