Hairy Bikers’ Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon Recipe

Hairy Bikers’ Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon is a rich and comforting dish that’s ideal for cozy evenings. A twist on the classic French "Boeuf Bourguignon," the Hairy Bikers’ version offers the perfect blend of tender beef, aromatic herbs, and savory vegetables, all simmered to perfection in a slow cooker.

The dish is made by braising beef in red wine, accompanied by carrots, onions, garlic, mushrooms, and herbs. The slow cooking method ensures the beef becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender, while the sauce thickens and intensifies, creating a deep, hearty flavor that’s hard to resist.

The Hairy Bikers, known for their approachable and family-friendly recipes, have taken the traditionally complex Boeuf Bourguignon and simplified it for a slow-cooked, hands-off experience. Their version allows for a flavorful, sophisticated meal with minimal effort, perfect for those who want to enjoy classic French cuisine without spending hours over the stove. This dish is ideal for any occasion where you want to serve something hearty and impressive, with plenty of leftovers to enjoy the next day.

Hairy Bikers’ Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To make the Hairy Bikers’ Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• Beef: 1.5 kg of braising steak or beef chuck, cut into chunks. The key to this dish is choosing a cut that benefits from slow cooking and breaks down beautifully, becoming tender and juicy.
• Red Wine: 750 ml of good-quality red wine (preferably Burgundy, but any dry red wine will work). This provides the deep, rich flavor base for the sauce.
• Beef Stock: 500 ml of beef stock, which complements the red wine and adds richness to the sauce.
• Onions: 2 medium onions, finely chopped. These add sweetness and depth to the dish.
• Carrots: 2 large carrots, sliced into thick rounds. The carrots provide a natural sweetness and texture to balance the rich sauce.
• Garlic: 3 cloves of garlic, minced. Garlic is an essential aromatic that infuses the dish with flavor.
• Mushrooms: 200 g of button mushrooms, sliced. The mushrooms soak up the rich sauce and add an earthy flavor.
• Bacon Lardons: 100 g of bacon lardons (optional but recommended for extra flavor).
• Herbs: 2 sprigs of thyme, 1 sprig of rosemary, and 2 bay leaves. These fresh herbs add a beautiful fragrance and depth to the dish.
• Tomato Puree: 2 tablespoons. This gives the sauce body and a slightly tangy flavor.
• Flour: 1 tablespoon, to dust the beef before browning, helping thicken the sauce.
• Butter or Oil: For browning the beef.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste, for seasoning.

Equipment Needed

To make the Hairy Bikers’ Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon, you’ll need the following kitchen equipment:

• Slow Cooker: The star of the show, this will cook the beef slowly, ensuring tenderness and rich flavor.
• Large Skillet or Frying Pan: For browning the beef and bacon lardons before adding them to the slow cooker.
• Chopping Board and Knife: For chopping vegetables and beef.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula: For stirring the ingredients as they cook in the pan and the slow cooker.
• Measuring Spoons: For measuring out ingredients like tomato puree, flour, and seasonings.
• Large Ladle (optional): To serve the beef bourguignon in a beautiful dish.

Step-by-Step Guide To Make Hairy Bikers’ Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon

1. Prepare the Beef:
   Begin by dusting the beef chunks lightly with flour, seasoning with salt and pepper. This will help thicken the sauce as it cooks.

2. Brown the Beef and Bacon:
   Heat some oil or butter in a large frying pan over medium heat. Add the beef in batches and brown each side for 3-4 minutes. Once the beef is browned, set it aside. In the same pan, cook the bacon lardons until crisp and golden. This adds an extra layer of flavor to the dish.

3. Saute the Vegetables:
   In the same pan, add the chopped onions, carrots, and garlic, and cook for a few minutes until they begin to soften. The onions should turn translucent, releasing their sweetness. This will be the flavor base for your dish.

4. Deglaze the Pan:
   Pour in a splash of red wine, scraping the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon to release any caramelized bits stuck to the pan. This step adds a rich depth of flavor to your sauce.

5. Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker:
   Transfer the beef, bacon, and vegetable mixture into the slow cooker. Add the remaining red wine, beef stock, tomato puree, and fresh herbs. Stir everything together to combine. Set the slow cooker to low and let it cook for 6-8 hours, or until the beef is meltingly tender.

6. Add Mushrooms:
   About 1 hour before the end of the cooking time, add the sliced mushrooms to the slow cooker. They will absorb the flavors and contribute a lovely texture to the dish.

7. Final Touches:
   Once the beef bourguignon is done, taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary. You can remove the herbs (thyme, rosemary, bay leaves) at this point.

8. Serve:
   Serve your slow-cooked beef bourguignon over mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered noodles for a complete meal. A sprinkling of freshly chopped parsley and a side of crusty bread to mop up the sauce will make it even more delightful.

Mastering The Recipe: Tips And Tricks

• Choosing the Right Beef: The key to a successful beef bourguignon lies in selecting the right cut of beef. For slow cooking, you need a cut that has lots of connective tissue, such as braising steak or chuck, which breaks down during the long cooking process and becomes wonderfully tender.
• Wine Choice: Use a dry red wine that you would enjoy drinking. Burgundy wine is traditionally used for Boeuf Bourguignon, but any full-bodied red wine will suffice. The wine flavor intensifies during cooking, so it’s important to use one that’s flavorful.
• Time and Patience: While slow cooking can take 6-8 hours, don’t rush it. The low and slow method allows the beef to absorb all the flavors and become fork-tender. If you’re short on time, consider cooking the beef on high for about 4-5 hours, but keep in mind that the flavors may not develop as deeply.
• Browning the Meat: Don’t skip the step of browning the beef and bacon. This caramelizes the meat, creating a depth of flavor that you won’t get if you skip this process. It’s a small step that makes a huge difference.
• Thickening the Sauce: If after cooking the sauce seems a bit too thin, you can thicken it by removing the lid and cooking on high for the last 30 minutes, allowing the liquid to reduce. Alternatively, you can mix a little cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the sauce to thicken it up.

Hairy Bikers’ Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon is a perfect dish for anyone looking to enjoy a rich and flavorful classic with minimal effort. The beauty of slow cooking is that it allows all the flavors to meld together and the beef to become incredibly tender, creating a truly comforting meal.

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a hearty dish on a chilly evening, this recipe will not disappoint. With its simple ingredients and easy steps, it’s a foolproof way to recreate a traditional French dish in the comfort of your own home. Happy cooking!.

Simple Twists On Hairy Bikers’ Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon Recipe

The Hairy Bikers’ Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon recipe is a rich and flavorful dish that benefits from the tenderizing power of slow cooking. It’s already a comforting meal, but there are several ways you can introduce twists to make it even more exciting or suited to your tastes.

1. Add Mushrooms for Extra Earthiness:
   While the original recipe may already include some mushrooms, you can increase the quantity or try different varieties like porcini, shiitake, or even cremini mushrooms. These add depth to the sauce and a richer, earthier flavor that complements the beef and wine perfectly.

2. Incorporate Fresh Herbs:
   The traditional bouquet garni is typically used in beef bourguignon, but you can enhance the flavor by incorporating fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or bay leaves into the slow cooker. Adding fresh herbs towards the end of cooking ensures their bright, aromatic notes infuse the dish without becoming too overpowering.

3. Try a Different Protein:
   If beef isn’t your go-to choice or you want to explore new variations, consider swapping the beef for lamb, chicken thighs, or even venison. Lamb, with its naturally rich flavor, pairs wonderfully with the deep red wine sauce. If using chicken, choose bone-in thighs for additional richness.

4. Swap Red Wine with Cider or Beer:
   For a slightly different twist, substitute red wine with a dry cider or a dark beer such as stout. The cider will lend a slight sweetness to balance the savory elements of the dish, while the beer will contribute malty undertones, creating a unique variation of the classic recipe.

5. Add Root Vegetables:
   Try adding different root vegetables to the dish to make it more hearty and complex. Turnips, parsnips, or rutabaga can add a unique flavor profile while still absorbing the wonderful broth from the slow cooking process.

6. Change the Vegetables for Texture Variety:
   Adding pearl onions or even leeks can give the dish a new texture and flavor. Their sweetness can contrast beautifully with the savory, rich sauce. Caramelizing them slightly before adding them to the slow cooker can also deepen their sweetness and make them even more delectable.

7. Spicy Kick:
   For those who love a little heat, a dash of smoked paprika or a few dried chili flakes can bring a delightful kick to your beef bourguignon. The smoky paprika adds a depth of flavor, while chili flakes will give it that subtle warming sensation.

These simple twists allow you to personalize the classic Beef Bourguignon, whether you’re looking for more earthy flavors, a different protein, or even a sweet and savory balance in the dish.

How To Properly Store Leftovers

Properly storing leftovers is key to preserving the flavor and texture of your delicious Beef Bourguignon and ensuring that it’s safe to eat later. Here’s how to store it properly:

1. Cool It Quickly:
   After your Beef Bourguignon has finished cooking, allow it to cool down to room temperature before storing. It’s best to avoid leaving it out for more than 2 hours to prevent bacteria growth. If you need to speed up the cooling process, you can divide the stew into smaller portions.

2. Use Airtight Containers:
   Transfer your leftovers into airtight containers. This helps preserve the flavor and prevents the stew from absorbing any odors from your refrigerator. Glass containers are particularly great because they don’t retain smells and are microwave-safe.

3. Refrigeration:
   Store your Beef Bourguignon in the fridge if you plan to eat it within the next 3-4 days. Make sure it’s kept at a consistent temperature of 40°F (4°C) or below. If you’ve added fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary, remove them before storing the leftovers, as they may become too strong in flavor after a day or two.

4. Freezing for Longer Storage:
   If you want to store Beef Bourguignon for a longer period, it freezes well for up to 3 months. Be sure to freeze it in portions to make defrosting easier. It’s a good idea to leave a little space in the container for expansion as the stew freezes. When you’re ready to enjoy it, defrost it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

5. Reheating Tips:
   When reheating Beef Bourguignon, it’s best to do so on the stovetop or in a slow cooker. Avoid using a microwave, as this can make the beef dry out or unevenly heat the stew. Reheat on low to medium heat and add a splash of beef stock or red wine to maintain its rich, saucy texture. Stir occasionally and let it simmer gently until it’s thoroughly heated.

6. Check for Freshness:
   When reheating, always check the taste and texture of the stew before serving. If it has been stored for a few days, you may need to refresh the seasoning, adding salt, pepper, or herbs to ensure the flavors are vibrant and balanced.

What To Eat With Hairy Bikers’ Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon?

Beef Bourguignon is a hearty, rich dish that pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. The key is to complement the savory, tender beef and the luscious red wine sauce. Here are some excellent pairing suggestions:

1. Mashed Potatoes:
   Classic mashed potatoes are a perfect match for Beef Bourguignon. Their creamy, buttery texture soaks up the delicious sauce, making every bite satisfying. For extra flavor, try incorporating roasted garlic or horseradish into your mashed potatoes.

2. Crusty Bread:
   A loaf of freshly baked, crusty bread is always a winning side. It’s perfect for mopping up the savory sauce from the Beef Bourguignon, adding a bit of texture to the dish. You can opt for French baguette, sourdough, or any hearty artisan bread.

3. Buttered Noodles or Egg Noodles:
   If you want to go for a more traditional French-style pairing, serve the stew with egg noodles. The delicate noodles will absorb the sauce, offering a soft contrast to the rich beef.

4. Roasted Vegetables:
   A medley of roasted root vegetables such as carrots, parsnips, and potatoes offers a sweet and savory balance to the dish. Roasting them with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of herbs will enhance their natural sweetness and provide a perfect contrast to the richness of the Beef Bourguignon.

5. Green Beans Almondine:
   For a lighter and fresher side, sauté green beans with slivered almonds and a splash of lemon juice. The freshness of the beans and the nutty crunch of almonds will create a delightful contrast with the hearty stew.

6. Green Salad:
   A simple green salad with mixed greens, arugula, or spinach adds a crisp and refreshing element to the meal. Toss it with a light vinaigrette to balance out the richness of the beef.

7. Polenta:
   Creamy polenta can be another wonderful side to pair with Beef Bourguignon. Its soft texture and mild flavor pair well with the bold, savory beef, and it can easily soak up the delicious sauce.

These sides not only complement the flavors of Beef Bourguignon but also add variety to your plate, creating a balanced and satisfying meal.

Conclusion

The Hairy Bikers’ Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon is a timeless dish that embodies rich, complex flavors that only improve with time. By experimenting with simple twists, you can add unique layers to the recipe, making it your own. Whether you swap the wine for beer, add extra vegetables, or choose a different protein, these tweaks will allow you to personalize the dish to your preferences.

Properly storing leftovers ensures you can enjoy this delicious meal for several days, and reheating it carefully preserves the flavors. Pairing Beef Bourguignon with sides like mashed potatoes, crusty bread, or a fresh green salad will elevate the dish to new heights. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family meal or entertaining guests, Beef Bourguignon offers both comfort and sophistication in every bite.

FAQs

What Are The Key Ingredients Needed For The Hairy Bikers’ Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon?

To make the Hairy Bikers’ Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon, you’ll need beef stewing steak, red wine (preferably a Burgundy or other full-bodied wine), beef stock, onions, carrots, garlic, mushrooms, pearl onions, and herbs like thyme and bay leaves. You’ll also need bacon lardons and a small amount of flour to help thicken the sauce.

Can I Use A Different Type Of Beef For The Hairy Bikers’ Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon?

While the recipe recommends using beef stewing steak, you can substitute it with other cuts of beef that are suitable for slow cooking, such as braising steak or chuck. These cuts have enough fat and connective tissue to break down over the slow cooking process, ensuring a tender and flavorful dish.

How Long Does The Hairy Bikers’ Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon Need To Cook?

The Hairy Bikers’ Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon should be cooked on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to develop and the beef to become incredibly tender. Always check the meat to ensure it’s fork-tender before serving.