Copycat Anthony Bourdain’s Beef Bourguignon

If you’re looking for a dish that warms the soul and fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma, then you’ve landed in the right place! This Copycat Anthony Bourdain’s Beef Bourguignon is not just a recipe; it’s a comforting hug in a bowl. Perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings, this hearty stew brings people together. The best part? The deep flavors are worth every minute spent simmering on the stove.

Imagine gathering around the table, laughter filling the air, as you serve up bowls of rich beef stew paired with crusty bread. This recipe is a labor of love that transforms simple ingredients into a gourmet experience. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with friends, this dish is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Rich Flavor: The combination of tender beef and aromatic herbs creates a flavor profile that’s simply unforgettable.
• Hearty and Satisfying: With its generous portions, this stew is perfect for a cozy dinner or meal prep for busy weeknights.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: It tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for leftovers or meal planning.
• Easy to Customize: Feel free to tweak ingredients based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences.
• Impressive Presentation: Serve it in individual bowls garnished with fresh parsley for an elegant touch that makes even casual dinners feel special.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This stew comes together with simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need to create this comforting dish:

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

Variations

The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility! You can easily adapt it to suit your taste or what you have available in your kitchen.

• Swap the protein: If you prefer chicken or turkey, they work beautifully in this recipe too!
• Add more veggies: Toss in some mushrooms or potatoes for added texture and flavor.
• Try different vinegars: While apple vinegar is delicious, red wine vinegar can also give it a unique twist.
• Spice it up: Add some crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little heat in your stew.

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 it helps achieve that beautiful browning when we sear the beef later.

Step 2: Sear the Beef

In a Dutch oven over high heat, heat half of the oil until shimmering. Working in several batches, sear the meat on all sides until well browned. Don’t overcrowd the pot; otherwise, you’ll steam the meat instead of browning it! Once finished, transfer to a plate.

Step 3: Cook the Onions

Reduce the heat to medium-high and add any remaining oil along with the onions. Cook them until softened and golden—about 10 minutes. This caramelization adds depth to our stew! Sprinkle on the flour now and stir until thickened, about 4 to 5 minutes.

Step 4: Deglaze with Vinegar

Add the apple vinegar while scraping up all those tasty browned bits stuck at the bottom of your pot. This step is key; those bits are packed with flavor!

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Once your vinegar starts boiling, return the browned meat along with its juices back to the pot. Add carrots, garlic, and bouquet garni next. Pour in 1½ cups of water (and demi-glace if using), then bring everything back to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low and let it cook uncovered for about 2 to 2½ hours until tender.

Step 6: Final Touches

As it cooks, check frequently every 15-20 minutes. Stir gently and add more water as needed to keep everything from sticking. When done, discard the bouquet garni. Taste your creation and season with additional salt if desired. Finish by garnishing with chopped parsley before serving!

Now you’ve created an unforgettable Copycat Anthony Bourdain’s Beef Bourguignon that will surely please everyone at your table!

Pro Tips for Making Copycat Anthony Bourdain’s Beef Bourguignon

Making a flavorful Beef Bourguignon can seem daunting, but with a few expert tips, you’ll be able to create a dish that rivals any bistro in Paris!

• Use high-quality beef: Selecting a good cut, like boneless beef shoulder or chuck, ensures that the meat becomes tender and flavorful during the long cooking process.

• Sear the meat properly: Browning the meat in batches allows for even caramelization, which adds depth of flavor to your stew. Avoid overcrowding the pot to prevent steaming.

• Don’t skip the bouquet garni: This tied bundle of herbs infuses the stew with aromatic flavors. It’s easy to remove at the end of cooking, leaving behind all the goodness without any bits floating in your dish.

• Adjust liquid levels carefully: Keep an eye on the stew as it cooks and add water as necessary. This ensures that nothing sticks to the bottom and that you develop a rich sauce without losing moisture.

• Let it rest: After cooking, letting your stew sit for a bit allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together even more. A little patience goes a long way!

How to Serve Copycat Anthony Bourdain’s Beef Bourguignon

When it comes time to serve this delightful French stew, presentation can make all the difference! A warm bowl of Beef Bourguignon is best enjoyed surrounded by simple yet elegant accompaniments.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of vibrant green parsley adds color and freshness, balancing out the richness of the stew.
• Crusty bread: Serve with slices of crusty baguette or rustic bread for dipping into the thick sauce—it’s practically essential!
• Grated cheese (non-dairy option): If desired, a light dusting of your favorite non-dairy cheese can enhance flavor while keeping it creamy.

Side Dishes

• Creamy mashed potatoes: Buttery mashed potatoes provide a comforting base that soaks up the savory sauce beautifully.
• Roasted seasonal vegetables: A medley of roasted carrots, parsnips, and Brussels sprouts offers an earthy contrast and adds nutritional value.
• Steamed green beans: Crisp-tender green beans add a pop of color and freshness alongside your hearty stew.
• Simple green salad: A light salad with mixed greens dressed in lemon vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the dish, making for a well-balanced meal.

Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner or simply treating yourself to something special, this Copycat Anthony Bourdain’s Beef Bourguignon will surely impress! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Copycat Anthony Bourdain’s Beef Bourguignon is not only a comforting dish to enjoy fresh but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, allowing the flavors to deepen and develop. Here’s how to store and manage your delicious stew:

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Portion out the cooled stew into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Leave some space at the top of the container as the stew will expand when frozen.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
• To avoid freezer burn, wrap containers tightly with plastic wrap before sealing.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, or use the microwave for quick thawing.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You may need to add a splash of water or broth if it has thickened too much.
• For microwave reheating, place in a microwave-safe dish and cover. Heat in intervals, stirring in between, until warmed to your liking.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Copycat Anthony Bourdain’s Beef Bourguignon that might help you while making this delightful dish!

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 and flavor, you can substitute with other cuts like brisket or round. Just ensure they are well-marbled for optimal results.

How long does Copycat Anthony Bourdain’s Beef Bourguignon last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, your Copycat Anthony Bourdain’s Beef Bourguignon can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

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

This hearty stew pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad. You can also serve it over noodles or rice for a filling meal!

Can I make Copycat Anthony Bourdain’s Beef Bourguignon without wine?

Absolutely! The red burgundy apple vinegar provides acidity and depth similar to wine. If you prefer not to use vinegar at all, consider using grape juice mixed with a splash of lemon juice.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Copycat Anthony Bourdain’s Beef Bourguignon as much as I do! It’s truly a labor of love that results in rich flavors and tender meat that warms both body and soul. Don’t hesitate to share this dish with family and friends; it’s perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in. Happy cooking!