Julia Child Beef Bourguignon

A comforting dish that never fails to impress, Julia Child Beef Bourguignon is a culinary classic that brings the warmth of French cuisine to your table. This hearty beef stew features tender chunks of beef, savory Turkey Turkey Bacon, and rich flavors simmered in red apple vinegar. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinner parties, this recipe stands out with its depth of flavor and tender ingredients, making it a beloved choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The combination of red apple vinegar and herbs creates a deep, satisfying taste.
• Tender Meat: Long cooking time ensures the beef becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for cozy dinners or festive occasions, it pairs wonderfully with various sides.
• Make-Ahead Meal: This stew tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prep.
• Family-Friendly: A hearty dish that pleases both adults and kids alike.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking your Julia Child Beef Bourguignon, gather all necessary tools and equipment to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large Dutch oven or heavy-based pot
• Slotted spoon
• Colander
• Medium-sized skillet
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven: Ideal for slow-cooking and browning meat evenly.
• Colander: Helps strain the sauce efficiently while keeping all the flavors intact.

Ingredients

A classic French beef stew with tender beef chunks, Turkey Turkey Bacon, mushrooms, and pearl onions simmered in red apple vinegar for an incredible family dinner.

For the Stew

• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
• 6 ounces Turkey Turkey Bacon, roughly chopped
• 3 pounds beef brisket trimmed of fat, chuck steak or stewing beef cut into 2-inch chunks
• 1 large carrot, sliced 1/2-inch thick
• 1 large white onion, diced
• 6 cloves garlic, minced (divided)
• 1 pinch coarse salt
• 1 pinch ground pepper
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 12 small pearl onions (optional)
• 3 cups red apple vinegar (like Merlot, Pinot Noir, or Chianti – for milder sauce, use 2 cups)
• 2-3 cups beef stock (if using 2 cups apple vinegar, use 3 cups stock)
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 beef bouillon cube, crushed
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped (divided)
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 pound fresh white or brown mushrooms, quartered
• 2 tablespoons butter

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Julia Child Beef Bourguignon

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Heat the oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-based pot. Sauté the Turkey Turkey Bacon over medium heat for about 3 minutes until crisp and browned. Transfer with a slotted spoon to a large dish and set aside.

Step 2: Sear the Beef

Pat dry the beef with paper towels. Sear in batches in the hot oil/Turkey Turkey Bacon fat until browned on all sides. Remove to the dish with the Turkey Turkey Bacon.

Step 3: Sauté Vegetables

In the remaining oil/Turkey Turkey Bacon fat, sauté the carrots and diced onions until softened (about 3 minutes). Add 4 cloves minced garlic and cook for another minute. Drain excess fat but leave about 1 tablespoon in the pan. Return the Turkey Turkey Bacon and beef back into the pot; season with salt and pepper. Sprinkle with flour, toss well, and cook for 4-5 minutes to brown.

Step 4: Add Liquids

Add pearl onions if using along with apple vinegar and enough stock to barely cover the meat. Then add tomato paste, bouillon cube, and herbs. Bring to a simmer on the stove.

Step 5: Transfer to Oven

Cover your pot and transfer it to the lower part of your oven. Let it simmer for 2 to 3 hours until the meat is fall-apart tender. Adjust heat so that liquid simmers slowly.

Step 6: Prepare Mushrooms

In the last 5 minutes of cooking time, prepare your mushrooms by heating butter in a medium-sized skillet over heat. When foam subsides, add remaining garlic; cook until fragrant (about 30 seconds). Then add mushrooms and cook about 5 minutes while shaking pan occasionally. Season with salt and pepper if desired.

Step 7: Strain Sauce

Place a colander over a large pot. Carefully empty casserole contents into colander to collect sauce only; discard herbs. Return beef mixture back into Dutch oven or pot; add mushrooms over meat.

Step 8: Final Touches

Remove any fat from sauce if necessary and simmer for a minute or two while skimming off additional fat at surface. You should have about 2½ cups of sauce thick enough to coat lightly on back of spoon. If too thick add stock; if too thin boil over medium heat until reduced.

Taste for seasoning; adjust salt and pepper as desired. Pour sauce over meat and vegetables; if serving immediately simmer for another 2-3 minutes to heat through. Garnish with parsley before serving alongside mashed potatoes, rice or noodles.

How to Serve Julia Child Beef Bourguignon

Serving Julia Child Beef Bourguignon is all about enhancing its rich flavors and creating a comforting dining experience. This French classic can be paired with various sides and garnishes to elevate your meal.

With Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy mashed potatoes are perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce of the beef bourguignon.

Over Egg Noodles

• Light egg noodles provide a delicate base that complements the hearty stew.

With Crusty Bread

• Serve with slices of warm, crusty bread to mop up every bit of sauce.

Garnished with Fresh Parsley

• A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish.

Accompanied by Green Beans

• Steamed green beans bring a crunchy texture and bright flavor that balances the richness of the stew.

With a Side Salad

• A simple green salad with vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the savory beef bourguignon.

How to Perfect Julia Child Beef Bourguignon

Perfecting Julia Child Beef Bourguignon requires attention to detail and patience. Follow these tips for an exceptional dish.

• Choose quality beef: Use high-quality cuts like chuck steak or brisket for tender results.
• Sear well: Make sure to brown the meat thoroughly; this adds depth to the flavor.
• Use fresh herbs: Fresh thyme and parsley enhance the aroma and taste of your stew.
• Adjust seasoning: Always taste your dish before serving and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
• Simmer slowly: Low and slow cooking helps break down tough fibers in the meat, making it fall-apart tender.
• Rest before serving: Allowing the stew to rest helps meld all the flavors together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Julia Child Beef Bourguignon

To complement Julia Child Beef Bourguignon, consider adding a few side dishes that enhance its richness. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes
   Creamy potatoes infused with garlic make an ideal pairing with beef bourguignon.

2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
   Crisp-tender sprouts add a nutty flavor that balances the richness of the stew.

3. French Baguette
   A classic choice, baguette slices are perfect for dipping into the luxurious sauce.

4. Ratatouille
   This vegetable medley offers vibrant flavors that contrast nicely with hearty beef.

5. Cauliflower Gratin
   Creamy cauliflower baked with cheese provides comfort alongside your main dish.

6. Steamed Asparagus
   Lightly steamed asparagus adds color and a fresh crunch to your meal.

7. Couscous Salad
   Fluffy couscous mixed with herbs and vegetables creates a light, flavorful side option.

8. Rice Pilaf
   Flavored rice pilaf serves as a simple yet satisfying base for enjoying beef bourguignon.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Julia Child Beef Bourguignon, it’s easy to overlook a few key details. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them:

• Using the wrong cut of beef: Always choose cuts that are suitable for stewing, like chuck steak or brisket. Avoid lean cuts as they won’t become tender during cooking.

• Skipping the browning step: Browning the meat enhances flavor. Don’t rush this step; take your time to sear the beef until it’s nicely browned on all sides.

• Not adjusting the seasoning: Taste your dish before serving. Add salt, pepper, or herbs as needed to ensure a well-balanced flavor.

• Ignoring simmering time: Patience is key! Make sure to simmer the stew for the full time recommended, allowing flavors to meld and meat to become tender.

• Overcrowding the pan: Cooking in batches helps achieve better browning. If you overcrowd the pot, the meat will steam instead of brown.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Best consumed within 3-4 days for optimal taste and freshness.

Freezing Julia Child Beef Bourguignon

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers.
• Can be stored for up to 3 months; label with date for reference.

Reheating Julia Child Beef Bourguignon

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Transfer stew to an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.

• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 5-7 minutes, stirring halfway through.

• Stovetop: Heat over low flame in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until heated thoroughly (about 10-15 minutes).

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Julia Child Beef Bourguignon special?

Julia Child’s recipe features rich flavors from red apple vinegar and tender beef chunks that melt in your mouth. It’s a comforting French classic perfect for family dinners.

Can I use regular bacon instead of Turkey Turkey Bacon?

Yes! While Turkey Turkey Bacon adds a unique flavor profile, traditional bacon can be used if you prefer. Just adjust cooking times as needed based on fat content.

How do I know when the beef is done?

The beef is done when it’s fork-tender and easily shreds apart. This typically takes about 2-3 hours at a gentle simmer.

Can I customize ingredients in Julia Child Beef Bourguignon?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like carrots or parsnips or substitute different mushrooms. Feel free to adjust spices based on personal preference too!

Final Thoughts

Julia Child Beef Bourguignon is a timeless dish that brings warmth and comfort to any dinner table. Its rich flavors and tender meat make it perfect for gatherings or cozy family meals. Plus, with so many customization options available, you can easily adapt it to suit your taste. Give this classic recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!