Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon

Ever wondered how a simple dish can transport you to the rustic countryside of France? The secret lies in the slow cooker beef bourguignon, a classic French recipe that will make you fall in love with slow-cooked meals.

Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious dish:

Bacon – A few slices to provide a smoky undertone
Beef – Chuck roast, cut into large chunks. You can ask your butcher to do this for you!
Red wine – A bottle of a decent quality, nothing too expensive
Broth – Chicken or beef broth both work well
Tomato sauce – A simple can of plain tomato sauce
Soy sauce – Adds depth and umami
Flour – To thicken the stew
Garlic – Fresh cloves for the best flavor
Thyme – Fresh or dried, based on your preference
Veggies – Carrot chunks, baby potatoes, and mushrooms

If you’re not a fan of red wine, you can substitute it for more broth, but remember, the wine gives this dish its distinctive flavor!

Timing

This recipe takes about 8 hours to cook, plus additional preparation time. But remember, good things come to those who wait!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps to create your own slow cooker beef bourguignon:

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

Chop the bacon and cook it in a pan until crispy. Then, move it to your slow cooker.
Step 2: Brown the Beef

Season your beef chunks with salt and pepper, and brown them in the same pan you used for the bacon. Add the beef to the slow cooker.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

Pour the wine into the hot pan, and use a wooden spoon to scrape up the browned bits. Then, add the broth, tomato sauce, and soy sauce. Stir in the flour to thicken the mixture, and pour it into the slow cooker.
Step 4: Add the Veggies and Cook

Add the garlic, thyme, carrots, potatoes, and mushrooms to the slow cooker. Set it to LOW and cook for 8 hours.

Nutritional Information

This recipe is rich in protein from the beef, and contains a good amount of fiber from the vegetables. However, remember to account for the calories from the bacon and wine.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

If you want to make this recipe healthier, you could substitute the bacon for turkey bacon, and use a low-sodium broth. You could also add more vegetables for extra fiber and nutrients.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is perfect served over mashed potatoes, but you could also try it with brown rice or quinoa for a healthier option. Don’t forget a slice of crusty bread to mop up the delicious sauce!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some common mistakes to avoid when making this recipe:

Not browning the beef – This step is essential for developing the flavor of the dish.
Using a cheap wine – The wine contributes significantly to the flavor of the dish, so choose a decent quality one.
Rushing the cooking time – Slow cooking is key to making the meat tender and developing the flavors in this dish.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

You can store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze them for up to 3 months. Just make sure to cool the stew completely before storing it.

Conclusion

Slow cooker beef bourguignon is a hearty, comforting dish that’s perfect for winter. It might take a bit of time to make, but the delicious results are well worth the wait. So why not give it a try?

Don’t forget to share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below. We’d love to hear how your beef bourguignon turned out!

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