Can Beef Bourguignon Be Made Ahead? Here’s The Answer You’ve Been Waiting For!
What To Know
- When you’re ready to serve the beef bourguignon, remove it from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes.
- Add a handful of pearl onions to the stew when you add the vegetables.
- If you prefer a thicker stew, add a cornstarch slurry (equal parts cornstarch and water) to the stew and simmer until thickened.
Beef bourguignon, a classic French stew, is a culinary masterpiece that evokes warmth and comfort. Its rich flavors and tender meat make it a favorite among food enthusiasts. But what if you don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen? Can beef bourguignon be made ahead?
The answer is a resounding yes! This blog post will guide you through the art of preparing beef bourguignon ahead of time, ensuring that you can enjoy this culinary delight whenever you crave it.
The Benefits of Making Beef Bourguignon Ahead
There are several advantages to making beef bourguignon ahead:
- Convenience: By preparing the stew in advance, you can save time and effort when you’re ready to serve it.
- Improved Flavor: Allowing the stew to rest and develop its flavors overnight enhances its taste and complexity.
- Stress-Free Entertaining: If you’re hosting guests, making the stew ahead frees up your time to focus on other aspects of the event.
How to Make Beef Bourguignon Ahead
Ingredients
- 2 pounds beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 bottle (750 ml) dry red wine
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup chopped carrots
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 1 cup chopped onions
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Day 1:
1. Season the beef cubes with salt and pepper.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat.
3. Brown the beef cubes in batches, removing them from the pot as they brown.
4. Add the flour to the pot and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
5. Gradually whisk in the red wine, beef broth, carrots, celery, onions, garlic, tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf.
6. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour.
Day 2:
1. Remove the stew from the heat and let it cool completely.
2. Transfer the stew to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Reheating and Serving
When you’re ready to serve the beef bourguignon, remove it from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes.
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Transfer the stew to a baking dish and cover it with foil.
3. Bake for 1-2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the flavors have fully developed.
Finishing Touches
For a truly indulgent experience, consider adding the following finishing touches:
- Mushrooms: Sauté sliced mushrooms in butter and add them to the stew before baking.
- Pearl Onions: Add a handful of pearl onions to the stew when you add the vegetables.
- Bacon: Cook diced bacon and add it to the stew for extra flavor and richness.
Serving Suggestions
Beef bourguignon pairs perfectly with the following accompaniments:
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide a rich and comforting base for the stew.
- Egg Noodles: Egg noodles add a touch of heartiness and soak up the flavorful sauce.
- French Bread: Crusty French bread is perfect for dipping into the stew and savoring every bite.
Variations
There are endless possibilities for customizing beef bourguignon to suit your taste preferences:
- Red Wine: You can use any dry red wine you like, such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, or Pinot Noir.
- Vegetables: Feel free to add or substitute other vegetables, such as parsnips, turnips, or leeks.
- Herbs: Experiment with different herbs, such as sage, oregano, or marjoram.
- Thickening: If you prefer a thicker stew, add a cornstarch slurry (equal parts cornstarch and water) to the stew and simmer until thickened.
The Verdict: Can Beef Bourguignon be Made Ahead?
Absolutely! By following the steps outlined above, you can make beef bourguignon ahead of time and enjoy its rich flavors whenever you desire. Whether you’re preparing it for a special occasion or a cozy night in, this culinary masterpiece will not disappoint.
FAQ
Q1: How long can I refrigerate beef bourguignon before baking?
A1: Up to 3 days.
Q2: Can I freeze beef bourguignon?
A2: Yes, you can freeze beef bourguignon for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
Q3: What is the best way to reheat beef bourguignon?
A3: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the stew in a covered baking dish for 1-2 hours, or until heated through.