Copycat Anthony Bourdain’s Beef Bourguignon

If you’re looking for a dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening, you’ve come to the right place! This Copycat Anthony Bourdain’s Beef Bourguignon is not just any stew; it’s a labor of love that transforms simple ingredients into something truly magical. The deep, rich flavors and tender beef create a cozy atmosphere that’s perfect for family gatherings or a special dinner with friends.

What I adore about this recipe is its ability to impress without being overly complicated. It’s ideal for busy weeknights when you want to serve something hearty and satisfying, yet it’s also fancy enough for those moments when you want to treat yourself or your loved ones. Let’s dive into the details of this delightful dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting Flavor: The combination of tender beef and savory vegetables creates a flavor explosion that warms your soul.
• Impressive Presentation: Serve this stew in a rustic bowl, and it will steal the show at your dinner table.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it ahead of time! It tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep.
• Family Approved: Even picky eaters will love digging into this hearty stew, making it great for family dinners.
• Customizable Ingredients: With simple swaps, you can adjust this recipe to suit your taste preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe comes together beautifully using simple, wholesome ingredients that pack a punch in flavor. Here’s what you’ll need to create this comforting beef stew:

For the Stew

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

Variations

The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility! Feel free to adapt it based on your pantry staples or personal tastes.

• Swap the protein: Instead of beef, try using chicken thighs or mushrooms for a vegetarian twist.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some potatoes or parsnips for extra heartiness.
• Spice it up: Add some red pepper flakes for a hint of heat if you like things spicy!
• Herb options: Experiment with different herbs in your bouquet garni like rosemary or oregano to change up the flavor profile.

How to Make Copycat Anthony Bourdain’s Beef Bourguignon

Step 1: Prepare the Meat

Begin by thoroughly patting the meat dry with paper towels. This step is crucial because moisture can prevent browning. Generously season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. This will enhance the flavor right from the start.

Step 2: Sear the Beef

In a Dutch oven over high heat, heat half of the olive oil until it shimmers. Working in batches ensures that each piece gets beautifully browned without steaming. Once well-browned on all sides, transfer the meat to a plate. This caramelization creates depth of flavor that you’ll love!

Step 3: Cook the Onions

Reduce the heat to medium-high and add the onions along with any remaining oil. Stir occasionally until the onions soften and turn golden—about 10 minutes. Sprinkling flour on top helps thicken our sauce later. Afterward, deglaze with apple vinegar by scraping up all those tasty browned bits from the bottom.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Once the apple vinegar starts bubbling away, return your seared meat along with its juices back into the pot. Toss in carrots, garlic, and your bouquet garni too! Adding water helps everything meld together perfectly while keeping moisture levels just right.

Step 5: Simmer Away

Bring everything to a boil before reducing heat to medium-low. Covering lets it simmer gently for about 2 to 2 ½ hours until tender. Remember to stir every once in a while to prevent sticking; this is where patience pays off!

Step 6: Final Touches

Once done cooking, remove the bouquet garni and taste your stew—season with more salt if necessary! A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds color and brightness before serving up this delightful dish.

Now you’re ready to enjoy each comforting bite of Copycat Anthony Bourdain’s Beef Bourguignon!

Pro Tips for Making Copycat Anthony Bourdain’s Beef Bourguignon

Making this classic dish can be a rewarding experience, and with a few pro tips, you can elevate your Beef Bourguignon to restaurant-quality!

• Sear the Meat Properly: Make sure to sear the beef in batches without overcrowding the pot. This allows for that beautiful caramelization which adds depth of flavor to your stew.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and vegetables will enhance the overall taste of your dish. Opt for fresh garlic and a bouquet garni made from fresh thyme, bay leaves, and parsley for the best aroma and flavor.

• Control the Heat: Keep an eye on your heat settings while cooking. If it gets too hot, your stew may stick or burn; a gentle simmer allows flavors to meld beautifully over time.

• Adjust Liquid Levels: Don’t hesitate to add water as needed while the stew simmers. The goal is to create a rich sauce that perfectly coats the meat, so maintaining the right liquid balance is key.

• Let It Rest: Once done cooking, let your Beef Bourguignon rest for about 10-15 minutes before serving. This helps redistribute the juices throughout the beef, resulting in a more flavorful bite.

How to Serve Copycat Anthony Bourdain’s Beef Bourguignon

Serving Beef Bourguignon can be as delightful as making it! With its rich flavors and hearty textures, this dish deserves a wonderful presentation that complements its robust profile.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of vibrant parsley not only adds color but also brightens up the rich flavors of the stew.
• Crusty Bread: Serve with slices of warm crusty bread on top or beside your bowl. It’s perfect for soaking up every last drop of that delicious sauce.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese: While not traditional, a light dusting of grated cheese can add an extra layer of flavor that many enjoy.

Side Dishes

• Creamy Mashed Potatoes: These fluffy potatoes provide a smooth contrast to the hearty stew and are perfect for mopping up sauce.
• Roasted Seasonal Vegetables: A medley of roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or root vegetables brings sweetness and texture that complements the richness of the beef.
• Buttered Noodles: Simple egg noodles tossed with butter make an excellent vehicle for enjoying all those savory flavors—plus, they’re quick to prepare!
• Green Salad with Vinaigrette: A light salad featuring mixed greens dressed with a tangy vinaigrette offers a refreshing balance against the hearty stew.

Enjoy your cooking journey with this comforting dish! Each step taken brings you closer to creating something truly special that will warm hearts around your table.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Copycat Anthony Bourdain’s Beef Bourguignon is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious homemade stew throughout the week. Its flavors only improve as it sits, making it an ideal candidate for making ahead of time.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Ensure the stew has cooled completely.
• Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• Add a splash of water if needed to restore consistency.

FAQs

If you have any questions about this recipe, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries:

Can I use a different type of vinegar in Copycat Anthony Bourdain’s Beef Bourguignon?

Yes! While red burgundy apple vinegar adds a unique flavor, you can substitute it with red wine vinegar or balsamic vinegar if needed.

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

When properly stored in an airtight container, this hearty stew will last about 3 days in the refrigerator.

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

This dish pairs beautifully with crusty bread, creamy mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad to balance out its rich flavors.

Can I make Copycat Anthony Bourdain’s Beef Bourguignon in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Brown the meat and onions first, then transfer everything to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours until tender.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Copycat Anthony Bourdain’s Beef Bourguignon brings warmth and comfort to your dinner table. It’s a special recipe that celebrates rich flavors and the joy of cooking. Enjoy making it as much as I enjoyed sharing it with you! Don’t hesitate to try it out and make wonderful memories around your table. Happy cooking!