Copycat Anthony Bourdain’s Beef Bourguignon

If you’re looking for a comforting dish that’s perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings, you’ve come to the right place! This Copycat Anthony Bourdain’s Beef Bourguignon is one of those recipes that warms your heart and fills your home with delightful aromas. It’s rich, savory, and truly a labor of love. I remember the first time I made it; I was amazed at how something so delicious could come from simple ingredients and patience.

This recipe is great for special occasions or even a cozy weeknight dinner. The slow-cooked beef becomes incredibly tender, and the flavors meld beautifully over time. Trust me, when you serve this dish, it will feel like a warm hug on a plate!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The combination of beef and vegetables creates an irresistible taste that everyone will love.
• Family-Friendly: Perfect for all ages! Even picky eaters will appreciate the hearty goodness of this stew.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: This dish tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prep or a busy weeknight.
• Simple Ingredients: You probably already have many of these ingredients in your pantry, making it easy to whip up!
• Comfort Food Classic: There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of stew to soothe the soul.

Ingredients You’ll Need

When it comes to making this Copycat Anthony Bourdain’s Beef Bourguignon, you’ll be using simple, wholesome ingredients that are packed with flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

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 (thyme, bay, parsley)
• Water
• Demi-glace(optional)
• Chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley, for garnish

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily customize it to suit your tastes or what you have on hand. Here are some fun ideas:

• Swap the protein: Use lamb or chicken instead of beef for a different flavor profile.
• Add more veggies: Feel free to toss in mushrooms, peas, or parsnips for added nutrition and texture.
• Spice it up: Add some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of Worcestershire sauce if you like a bit of heat.
• Try different herbs: Experiment with rosemary or oregano in place of thyme 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. This step is crucial because removing excess moisture helps achieve that beautiful sear we’re looking for!

Step 2: Sear the Meat

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. Don’t overcrowd the pot; otherwise, your meat will steam instead of brown. Once browned, transfer to a plate. Searing adds depth of flavor through caramelization.

Step 3: Cook the Onions

Reduce the heat to medium-high and add any remaining oil along with the onions. Cook until softened and golden (about 10 minutes). Sprinkle in flour and cook until thickened (4-5 minutes). The onions bring sweetness while thickening our stew base!

Step 4: Add Vinegar and Meat

Once the apple vinegar starts to boil, return your seared meat plus any juices back into the pot. Add in carrots, garlic, and bouquet garni along with water (and demi-glace if using). Bring to a boil then reduce heat to medium-low. Cooking uncovered allows flavors to concentrate as the stew simmers away.

Step 5: Simmer Until Tender

Allow your stew to simmer uncovered for about 2 to 2½ hours until the meat is tender. Remember to check every 15-20 minutes! Stirring prevents sticking while ensuring even cooking.

Step 6: Final Touches

When done cooking, discard the bouquet garni and taste your masterpiece! Adjust seasoning as needed before garnishing with fresh parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes for an unforgettable meal.

With its rich flavors and heartwarming essence, this Copycat Anthony Bourdain’s Beef Bourguignon is sure to become a favorite in your home just as it has in mine! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Copycat Anthony Bourdain’s Beef Bourguignon

Making this rich and comforting beef bourguignon can feel daunting, but a few simple tips can elevate your dish to gourmet status!

• Pat the meat dry: Drying the beef thoroughly before seasoning ensures a better sear. This step prevents steaming and helps achieve that beautiful brown crust that adds depth to the flavor.
• Don’t overcrowd the pot: Sear the meat in batches to avoid steaming. Crowding the pot causes the meat to release moisture, resulting in a gray instead of golden finish. A proper sear is key to unlocking those savory flavors!
• Use quality vinegar: Opt for a good-quality red burgundy apple vinegar, as it brings acidity and brightness to the stew. This ingredient balances the richness of the meat and enhances overall flavor.
• Adjust liquid levels: Keep an eye on the liquid as you cook. Adding water gradually helps prevent sticking and ensures a perfect sauce consistency. The right amount of liquid is crucial for tenderizing the meat and creating a luscious gravy.
• Don’t skip skimming: Regularly skim off any foam or oil that accumulates on top during cooking. This step keeps your stew clear and enhances its visual appeal, ensuring you serve a beautiful dish.

How to Serve Copycat Anthony Bourdain’s Beef Bourguignon

Serving this hearty stew is all about presentation and complementing its rich flavors. With some thoughtful touches, you can turn this home-cooked dish into something truly special.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of vibrant parsley not only adds color but also freshness that cuts through the richness.
• Thinly sliced green onions: These add a mild onion flavor and a nice crunch that contrasts with the tender beef.
• A dollop of crème fraîche (or plant-based alternative): This creamy addition provides a luxurious touch that balances out the flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Crusty French bread: Perfect for soaking up all that delicious sauce, crusty bread complements the stew’s hearty texture while adding a satisfying crunch.
• Garlic mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with roasted garlic make an ideal base for serving this stew, providing comfort in every bite.
• Steamed green beans: Bright green beans add color to your plate and offer a crisp contrast to the tender beef, rounding out your meal perfectly.
• Simple mixed greens salad: A light salad with vinaigrette refreshes your palate after enjoying such a rich dish, making it a great accompaniment.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips in mind, your Copycat Anthony Bourdain’s Beef Bourguignon will impress family and friends alike! Enjoy your culinary adventure!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Copycat Anthony Bourdain’s Beef Bourguignon is an excellent choice for meal prep. Not only does it taste even better the next day, but it also makes for delightful leftovers throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the stew to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Make sure to label your container with the date so you know when to enjoy it by.

Freezing

• Portion the stew into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Label each container with the date and contents.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. For best quality, consume within 1 month.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stove over low heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• Alternatively, microwave in a microwave-safe bowl, heating in short intervals and stirring in between.

FAQs

Have questions? You’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries regarding this recipe.

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

Absolutely! While boneless beef shoulder or chuck works best due to its marbling, you can also use brisket or round cuts. Just make sure they’re well-marbled for optimal tenderness.

How do I know when my Copycat Anthony Bourdain’s Beef Bourguignon is done?

The stew is ready when the beef is fork-tender and easily pulls apart. It should have a rich, thick sauce that clings beautifully to each piece of meat.

Can I skip the demi-glace?

Yes, demi-glace adds depth of flavor but is optional. If you don’t have any on hand, just ensure your stew has enough liquid and season it well with salt and pepper!

What can I serve with this Beef Bourguignon?

This hearty stew pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or mashed potatoes to soak up all that delicious sauce. A side salad can add a fresh crunch too!

Final Thoughts

I hope you feel inspired to create this comforting dish in your kitchen! The beautiful blend of flavors combined with tender beef makes Copycat Anthony Bourdain’s Beef Bourguignon truly special. Enjoy making it as much as you’ll enjoy savoring every bite. Happy cooking!