Hairy Bikers Beef Bourguignon Recipe

Name: Hairy Bikers Beef Bourguignon
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 2 h 30 min
Total time: 3 h
Yield: Not specified
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 1 kg braising steak, cubed; 200 g smoked bacon, diced; 1 large onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 500 ml red wine; 2 tbsp tomato puree; 300 ml water; 1 beef stock cube; 2 bay leaves; 1 tsp thyme; 50 g butter; 200 g pearl onions; 200 g chestnut mushrooms, sliced; 2 tbsp cornflour; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped parsley for garnish

Explore the rich and savory depths of the Hairy Bikers Beef Bourguignon, a classic French dish renowned for its tender beef, robust flavors, and hearty sauce. This beloved recipe, sourced from the expertise of the Hairy Bikers, promises a culinary journey through the heart of French cuisine, perfect for those seeking to impress at dinner parties or enjoy a luxurious meal at home.

Brief Description of the Recipe

Beef Bourguignon, or boeuf bourguignon, is a stew made with beef braised in red wine, often a Burgundy, and beef broth, typically flavored with carrots, onions, garlic, and a bouquet garni, with pearl onions and mushrooms added towards the end of cooking. The Hairy Bikers' take on this dish elevates it with their signature touch, balancing the richness of the wine with the succulence of the beef to perfection.

Cultural or Historical Context

Originating from the Burgundy region in France, Beef Bourguignon has a storied history as a peasant dish that has been elevated to the status of fine French cuisine. The method of slowly cooking the beef in wine was a means of tenderizing tougher cuts of meat, making it a staple in French cooking.

Ingredients List for the Hairy Bikers Beef Bourguignon

Braising steak, smoked bacon, onion, and garlic for the base.
Red wine, tomato puree, and water for the cooking liquid.
Beef stock cube, bay leaves, and thyme for seasoning.
Butter, pearl onions, and chestnut mushrooms for added texture and flavor.
Cornflour for thickening the sauce.
Chopped parsley for garnish.
Measurements are provided in grams and milliliters, catering to a UK audience.

Preparation Instructions

The process involves browning the beef and bacon, softening onions and garlic, and combining these with red wine, tomato puree, and seasonings before slow cooking. The pearl onions and mushrooms are browned and added towards the end, with cornflour used to thicken the sauce. The dish is garnished with parsley before serving.

Storage and Reheating

Beef Bourguignon stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days and can be frozen for longer preservation. For reheating, gently warm on the stove over low heat or in a microwave, ensuring it is heated through.

Nutritional Information

A serving of Hairy Bikers Beef Bourguignon provides a rich source of protein, alongside a moderate amount of carbohydrates and fats. Specific nutritional values include calories, protein, carbohydrates, fat, fiber, and salt content.

FAQs about the Hairy Bikers Beef Bourguignon

Cooking Time: The total time required is around 2.5 to 3 hours.
Choice of Wine: A good-quality red wine like Burgundy, Pinot Noir, or Merlot is recommended.
Serving Suggestions: The dish pairs well with creamy mashed potatoes, crusty bread, rice, noodles, polenta, green vegetables, or a crisp salad.

For those looking to recreate this exquisite dish, the Hairy Bikers Beef Bourguignon stands as a testament to the duo's culinary prowess and dedication to bringing French classics to the home kitchen.