Boeuf Bourguignon
"Boeuf bourguignon is beef braised in red wine (traditionally Burgundy wine) with carrots, onions, mushrooms, and lardons (bacon). The beef (usually chuck or brisket) is cooked for 2-3 hours until tender and the wine reduces into a rich, velvety sauce. It's a rustic bistro classic, often served with mashed potatoes or egg noodles. Best eaten in colder months as a hearty, warming meal."
Logistics
Moderate
Vibe
Hearty, warming
Duration
1 hour
Best For
Dinner
The Backstory
Originated in Burgundy (Bourgogne) in the 1800s as peasant food—cheap cuts of beef slow-cooked in local wine. Julia Child's 1961 cookbook brought it to American fame, but it was already a French staple. Auguste Escoffier codified the recipe in 1903. It represents French comfort food—simple ingredients transformed by time and technique.
Local Secret
"Order at traditional bistros in fall/winter—it's rarely available in summer. The meat should be fork-tender, not chewy. The sauce should be thick and glossy, not watery. Good versions take 3+ hours to make, so cheap restaurants cut corners. Expect to pay €18-25 for a proper portion. Pair with red Burgundy wine (Pinot Noir) or Côtes du Rhône. Eat with crusty bread to soak up sauce."