Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 slices bacon, diced
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups red wine (preferably Burgundy or Pinot Noir)
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 pound baby carrots
- 1 pound small potatoes, halved
- 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Beef: In a large bowl, toss the beef cubes with the flour until evenly coated. Shake off excess flour.
- Brown the Beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes in batches (do not overcrowd the pan) and brown on all sides, about 4-5 minutes per side. Transfer the browned beef to the slow cooker.
- Cook the Bacon: In the same skillet, add the diced bacon and cook over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and add it to the slow cooker.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the bacon fat, add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Transfer the onion and garlic to the slow cooker.
- Deglaze the Pan: Pour the red wine into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2 minutes. Stir in the tomato paste until well combined.
- Combine Ingredients: Pour the wine mixture over the beef and onions in the slow cooker. Add the beef broth, thyme, and bay leaves. Stir to combine.
- Add Vegetables: Arrange the carrots, potatoes, and mushrooms on top of the meat mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the bay leaves. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Enjoy this rich and hearty dish with crusty bread or over egg noodles. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner!
Feel free to adjust the ingredients or seasonings to suit your taste.
