Pat the beef chunks dry and season them generously with salt and pepper.
3 pounds beef brisket or chuck steak, Salt and pepper
In a Dutch oven or heavy skillet, cook the chopped bacon until crispy, approx. 3 minutes. Remove the bacon and set it aside, leaving the drippings in the pot.
8 bacon strips
Using the same pot, sear the beef in batches until browned on all sides. Avoid overcrowding the pot to ensure even browning. Add a little olive oil if needed between batches. Once done, set the beef aside with the bacon.
Add the sliced carrots and celery to the pot, cooking them for about 3 minutes until they begin to soften. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
1 carrot, 1 celery stick, 5 garlic cloves
Mix in the tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes, letting it deepen in color. Return the beef and bacon to the pot, and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and flour. Stir everything together to coat evenly, then cook for 4-5 minutes to build flavor.
3 tablespoons tomato paste, 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
Add the pearl onions, red wine, beef stock (just enough to cover), thyme, parsley, and bay leaves. Stir well and ensure the liquid covers the ingredients. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, cover, and cook for 45 minutes to 1 hour until the beef is tender.
3 cups pearl onions, 3 cups red wine, 3 cups beef stock, 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, 1 tablespoon parsley, 2 bay leaves
In a separate pan, melt the butter over medium heat and sauté the halved mushrooms until golden, about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Stir the mushrooms into the pot during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
2 tablespoons butter, 3 cups button mushrooms
Serve the Beef Bourguignon hot with mashed potatoes or crusty bread garnished with fresh herbs. Enjoy!
Mashed potatoes, Fresh herbs