Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe for a Cozy Night: Slow-Cooked, Tender, and Delicious

Prep Time 25 mins
Cook Time 165 mins
Rest Time 10 mins
Total Time 3 hrs 20 mins
Cooking Method: , ,
Cuisine:
Courses:
Difficulty: Intermediate
Cooking Temp: 160  C
Servings: 6
Best Season: Fall, Winter
Description

A deeply comforting and richly flavored Classic Beef Bourguignon for a Cozy Night, slow-cooked with tender halal beef, carrots, onions, mushrooms, and aromatic herbs. This cozy French-inspired stew brings together warmth, depth, and home-style comfort. Perfect for chilly evenings, weekend family meals, or any time you crave a hearty, restaurant-quality dish at home.

Ingredients
    For the Beef & Marinade
  • 1.2 kg beef chuck, cut into large cubes
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp flour
    • For the Stew Base
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 2 medium carrots, sliced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 250 g mushrooms, halved
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 3 cups beef broth
  • 1.5 cups grape juice (used as a non-alcoholic substitute for red wine; keeps flavor rich)
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 tsp dried rosemary
    • For Final Touch
  • 0.25 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 Optional: tbsp butter for added richness
Instructions
    Season and Sear the Beef
  1. 1
    Season the beef cubes with salt and pepper. Lightly coat them with flour. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large Dutch oven. Sear the beef in batches until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside. Browning builds a deep, savory base for the stew.
    2. Sauté the Vegetables
  2. 2
    In the same pot, add 3 tbsp olive oil. Sauté onions and carrots for 4–5 minutes until softened. Add garlic and mushrooms and cook for another 2 minutes until aromatic.
    3. Add Tomato Paste and Build the Flavor Base
  3. 3
    Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute to deepen its flavor. This step intensifies the stew’s rich, slightly sweet notes.
    4. Deglaze and Add Liquids
  4. 4
    Pour in the grape juice and scrape any browned bits from the bottom (these add tremendous flavor). Add the beef broth and soy sauce. Stir until well combined.
    5. Layer the Seasonings
  5. 5
    Add bay leaves, thyme, and rosemary. Mix well to distribute the herbs evenly.
    6. Simmer Slowly
  6. 6
    Return the seared beef to the pot. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Cover and transfer to the oven at 160°C for 2 hours 15 minutes. Slow cooking will make the beef incredibly tender.
    7. Thicken and Adjust
  7. 7
    After cooking, check thickness. If you want a richer sauce, simmer uncovered on low heat for 10–15 minutes. Add butter at the end if you want extra silkiness.
    8. Rest & Serve
  8. 8
    Let the Bourguignon rest for 10 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to settle beautifully. Garnish with fresh parsley.
Note

Storage:

  • Refrigerator: Up to 4 days in airtight containers.
  • Freezer: Up to 3 months; reheat slowly on the stovetop.

Best Serving Ideas:

  • Creamy mashed potatoes
  • Buttered noodles
  • Fresh baguette
  • Garlic mashed cauliflower

Flavor Boost: Add a touch of butter at the end for a glossy finish.

Vegetable Variations: Add celery, pearl onions, or parsnips.

Make-Ahead Friendly: Tastes even better the next day as flavors deepen.

Keywords: cozy dinner, beef stew, slow-cooked recipe, comforting meal, French-inspired
Read it online: https://petitepanini.com/recipe/classic-beef-bourguignon-recipe-for-a-cozy-night-slow-cooked-tender-and-delicious/