Slow-Braised Beef Bourguignon with Bacon and Red Wine

Name: Slow-Braised Beef Bourguignon with Bacon and Red Wine
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 180 min
Total time: 210 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: French-inspired
Ingredients: 1.5 kg beef chuck, cut into 4 cm cubes; 200 g bacon, diced; 2 whole large onions, chopped; 3 whole carrots, sliced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 750 ml dry red wine; 500 ml beef broth; 2 whole bay leaves; 1 tbsp tomato paste; 2 tbsp neutral oil; 1 tsp fine salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 2 sprigs thyme

Slow-braised beef with bacon, red wine, carrots, garlic and herbs.

By Savva LoginovUpdated October 2, 2026

Total 3 hr 30 minMakes 6 servings

Jump to Recipe

This French-inspired beef stew braises beef with bacon, red wine, carrots and aromatics until fork-tender. Brown the meat in batches and keep the oven at a gentle simmer for a rich, concentrated sauce. For deeper flavor, refrigerate beef in wine 2 to 4 hours, then drain and pat dry; reserve wine. Heat oven to 160°C (325°F). In a Dutch oven, cook bacon until browned. Remove. Brown beef in batches in rendered fat and oil. Add onions and carrots; cook 5 minutes. Stir in garlic and tomato paste. Return bacon and beef. Add wine, broth, bay and thyme. Bring to a simmer, cover and braise in oven 2 1/2 to 3 hours until beef is fork-tender.

Slow-Braised Beef Bourguignon with Bacon and Red Wine

How to tell when it is ready

Cook until tender, set or golden as described.

Tips

Measure ingredients before beginning.
Use even-sized pieces for consistent cooking.
Taste and adjust seasoning near the end.
Cool and store leftovers promptly.

Troubleshooting

If mixture is too thick, add liquid gradually.
If browning too quickly, lower the heat.

Substitutions

Use a suitable neutral oil if needed.
Choose compatible alternatives for dietary needs.

Variations

Adjust spices to your preference.
Add citrus zest for a brighter flavor.

Serving suggestions

Serve with a fresh seasonal side.
Pair with tea, coffee or a suitable drink.
Offer a complementary sauce or topping.
Serve warm or chilled as directed.

Make ahead

Measure ingredients ahead and refrigerate perishable components; finish shortly before serving.

Storage

Refrigerate leftovers promptly and use within 3 days.

Food safety

Contains pork. Keep raw beef separate; braise until tender and refrigerate leftovers promptly.

Frequently asked questions

Can I prepare this ahead?

Prepare components ahead and refrigerate promptly.

How should I store beef bourguignon?

Refrigerate leftovers promptly and use within 3 days.

Serve promptly and store leftovers safely.

About the author

Savva Loginov

Savva Loginov writes about traditional Ukrainian cooking, including regional dishes, heritage baking and the customs behind familiar recipes. His English guides explain each dish’s context alongside clear, practical cooking instructions.

Slow-Braised Beef Bourguignon with Bacon and Red Wine