Copycat Anthony Bourdain’s Beef Bourguignon

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that warms the heart and fills the belly, then you’ve stumbled upon a treasure! Copycat Anthony Bourdain’s Beef Bourguignon is that comforting stew that brings family and friends together around the table. This recipe is not just about nourishing your body; it’s about creating memories and savoring every bite. Perfect for busy weeknights or special family gatherings, this dish will make you feel like a gourmet chef in your own kitchen.

What makes this beef bourguignon so special? It’s all in the layers of flavor and the tender, melt-in-your-mouth beef that simmers to perfection. Trust me; once you try it, it will become a staple in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich, Deep Flavors: The combination of seared beef and caramelized onions creates a sauce that is rich and mouthwatering.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make it ahead of time! The flavors deepen as it sits, making it even better the next day.
• Family-Friendly: This dish appeals to all ages, making it a perfect choice for family dinners.
• Impressive Yet Simple: With just a bit of effort, you can serve up a restaurant-quality meal at home.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it with crusty bread, over mashed potatoes, or alongside steamed vegetables.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that you may already have in your pantry. Let’s gather everything we need to create this delicious stew!

For the Stew

• 2 lb boneless beef shoulder or chuck cut into 1 1/2-inch pieces
• Kosher salt
• Freshly ground black pepper
• 1/4 cup olive oil (divided)
• 4 medium onions (halved and thinly sliced)
• 2 tbs all-purpose flour
• 1 cup red burgundy apple vinegar (such as pinot noir)
• 6 medium carrots (peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces)
• 1 clove garlic
• 1 bouquet garni (a tied bundle of herbs like thyme, bay, and parsley)
• Water (as needed)
• Demi-glace (optional)
• Chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley (for garnish)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to customize it based on what you have at home or your personal taste preferences.

• Swap the protein: Use chicken thighs instead of beef for a lighter version.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some mushrooms or potatoes for added texture and flavor.
• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of chili flakes for some heat that complements the richness.
• Try different herbs: Rosemary or oregano can be used in place of traditional herbs for a unique twist.

How to Make Copycat Anthony Bourdain’s Beef Bourguignon

Step 1: Prepare the Meat

Thoroughly pat the meat dry with paper towels and generously season it with salt and pepper. Drying the meat helps achieve that beautiful brown crust when searing, which adds depth to our stew’s flavor.

Step 2: Sear the Beef

In a Dutch oven over high heat, heat half of the oil until shimmering. Working in batches, sear the meat on all sides until well browned. This step is crucial—browning adds layers of flavor through those lovely caramelized bits that stick to the pot!

Step 3: Sauté Onions

Reduce the heat to medium-high and add any remaining oil along with the onions. Cook until they soften and turn golden—about 10 minutes. This step brings out their natural sweetness, which balances beautifully with the rich beef.

Step 4: Thicken & Deglaze

Sprinkle flour over the soft onions and cook until thickened. Add apple vinegar next—this deglazes the pot by scraping up those flavorful browned bits. We want all that goodness incorporated into our stew!

Step 5: Simmer Away

Once boiling, add back the beef along with carrots, garlic, bouquet garni, and water. Bring back to boil before reducing heat to medium-low. Let it simmer uncovered for 2 to 2½ hours until tender. This slow cooking allows all flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 6: Final Touches

Check on your stew every now and then! Stir gently to prevent sticking and add water if needed. When done, discard bouquet garni, taste for seasoning, garnish with parsley, and serve hot!

And there you have it—your very own Copycat Anthony Bourdain’s Beef Bourguignon that’s sure to impress everyone at your table! Enjoy every delicious spoonful!

Pro Tips for Making Copycat Anthony Bourdain’s Beef Bourguignon

Making this delicious stew is a rewarding experience, and with these pro tips, you’ll elevate your dish to new heights!

• Pat the meat dry: This crucial step helps achieve a perfect sear, creating that rich, caramelized flavor that makes your stew irresistible.
• Don’t overcrowd the pot: Searing the meat in batches ensures it browns evenly instead of steaming. This will enhance the overall flavor of your dish.
• Adjust liquid as needed: Monitoring the liquid level while cooking keeps the stew from sticking and ensures a luscious sauce that clings to every bite of beef.
• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the stew to sit for about 10-15 minutes after cooking allows flavors to meld together beautifully and enhances its taste.
• Experiment with herbs: While a traditional bouquet garni includes thyme, bay leaf, and parsley, feel free to add other fresh herbs like rosemary or oregano for a personalized twist.

How to Serve Copycat Anthony Bourdain’s Beef Bourguignon

Presenting this hearty beef bourguignon is all about highlighting its rich flavors and comforting nature. Here are some delightful ideas on how to serve it.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley: A sprinkle adds a pop of color and freshness that balances out the richness of the stew.
• Grated lemon zest: Just a hint brightens up the dish, cutting through the heaviness and adding an aromatic touch.

Side Dishes

• Crusty French bread: Perfect for mopping up that delicious sauce, crusty bread is a classic accompaniment that complements the dish beautifully.
• Mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes offer a comforting base that pairs well with the hearty beef stew, absorbing all those incredible flavors.
• Roasted Brussels sprouts: Their slight bitterness contrasts nicely with the richness of the bourguignon while adding a lovely crunch.
• Green salad: A simple mixed greens salad dressed with vinaigrette provides a refreshing counterbalance to the warmth of the stew.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips in hand, you’re ready to impress family and friends with your homemade Copycat Anthony Bourdain’s Beef Bourguignon! Enjoy this labor of love and savor every mouthful.

Make Ahead and Storage

This recipe for Copycat Anthony Bourdain’s Beef Bourguignon is perfect for meal prep! It not only tastes better the next day as the flavors meld but also makes weeknight dinners a breeze. Here’s how to store it properly:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the stew to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Portion out the stew into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Leave some space at the top of each container, as liquids expand when frozen.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating, if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water if necessary.
• Alternatively, reheat in the microwave until hot, stirring halfway through.

FAQs

Have questions about this delicious beef stew? Here are some common queries answered!

Can I use a different cut of beef for Copycat Anthony Bourdain’s Beef Bourguignon?

Yes! While boneless beef shoulder or chuck is recommended for its tenderness, you could use other cuts like brisket or round. Just ensure they are suitable for slow cooking.

How can I make Copycat Anthony Bourdain’s Beef Bourguignon gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, simply substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch for thickening. The flavor will still be amazing!

What can I serve with Copycat Anthony Bourdain’s Beef Bourguignon?

This hearty stew pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, crusty bread, or even egg noodles. Choose whatever sides you love most!

How long does it take to cook Copycat Anthony Bourdain’s Beef Bourguignon?

The total cooking time is around 2 to 2.5 hours, plus about 20 minutes of prep time. It’s worth every minute for that rich flavor!

Final Thoughts

This Copycat Anthony Bourdain’s Beef Bourguignon is not just a recipe; it’s a beautiful way to bring warmth and comfort to your dinner table. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do! Remember, great food takes time and love—two things this dish has in abundance. Happy cooking!