The secret to this rich beef casserole is to use all wine and no stock. Our ultimate beef bourguignon recipe is an instant comforting classic, full of satisfying flavours.
Prep:45 mins
Serves 6
1.6kg braising steak, cut into large chunks3 bay leavessmall bunch thyme2 bottles cheap red wine2 tbsp oil3 large or 6 normal carrots, cut into large chunks2 onions, roughly chopped3 tbsp plain flour1 tbsp tomato purée
STEP 1Tip 1.6kg braising steak, cut into large chunks, into a large bowl with 3 bay leaves, a small bunch of thyme, 2 bottles of red wine and some pepper, then cover and leave in the fridge overnight.STEP 2Heat the oven to 200C/180C fan/gas 6.STEP 3Place a colander over another large bowl and strain the marinated meat, keeping the wine.STEP 4Heat 1 tbsp oil in a large frying pan, then brown the meat in batches, transferring to a plate once browned. When all the meat is browned, pour a little wine into the now-empty frying pan and bubble to release any caramelised bits from the pan.STEP 5Heat 1 tbsp oil in a large casserole and fry 3 large or 6 normal carrots, cut into large chunks, and 2 roughly chopped onions until they start to colour. Stir in 3 tbsp plain flour for 1 min, then add 1 tbsp tomato purée.STEP 6Add the beef and any juices, the wine from the frying pan and the rest of the wine and herbs. Season and bring to a simmer. Give everything a good stir, then cover.STEP 7Transfer to the oven and bake for 2 hrs until the meat is really tender. Cool. Will freeze for up to 3 months.STEP 8To serve, defrost completely overnight in the fridge if frozen, then place on a low heat to warm through.STEP 9Meanwhile, heat a small knob of butter in a frying pan and add 300g bacon lardons and 500g peeled pearl onions or small shallots. Sizzle for about 10 mins until the bacon starts to crisp and the onions soften and colour.STEP 10Add 400g halved mushrooms and fry for another 5 mins, then stir everything into the stew and heat for 10 mins more. Serve scattered with chopped parsley.
