Beef bourguignon, a rich and deeply flavored beef stew braised in red Burgundy wine, is a quintessential French dish that embodies comfort and elegance. Its complex flavors, tender meat, and luscious sauce make it a centerpiece worthy of careful consideration when choosing accompaniments. Selecting the right sides and drinks enhances the entire dining experience, elevating the meal from satisfying to unforgettable.
The Classic Companions: Bread and Potatoes
Two staples often found alongside beef bourguignon are bread and potatoes. They serve as the perfect vehicles for soaking up the delicious sauce, contributing to a truly satisfying and complete meal.
Crusty Bread: A Simple Pleasure
A loaf of good quality, crusty bread is an absolute must. The crisp exterior and soft, airy interior provide a delightful textural contrast to the tender beef and rich sauce. Choose a traditional French baguette or a country-style sourdough for optimal enjoyment. The bread is meant to be torn apart and used to mop up every last drop of the flavorful bourguignon sauce, ensuring no deliciousness goes to waste. Its neutral flavor profile complements the complex flavors of the stew without overpowering them.
Potatoes: A Versatile Side
Potatoes offer a versatile accompaniment to beef bourguignon. Several preparations complement the dish beautifully.
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy Comfort
Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic choice. The smooth, buttery texture of the potatoes creates a harmonious contrast with the hearty stew. Adding a touch of garlic, herbs, or even a swirl of crème fraîche elevates the mashed potatoes, creating a flavor profile that complements the bourguignon perfectly. Consider using Yukon Gold potatoes for their naturally buttery flavor and smooth texture.
Roasted Potatoes: Rustic Charm
Roasted potatoes, with their crispy exterior and fluffy interior, offer a rustic alternative to mashed potatoes. Toss the potatoes with olive oil, herbs like rosemary and thyme, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper before roasting them until golden brown and tender. The slightly caramelized flavor of the roasted potatoes complements the savory notes of the beef bourguignon. Small, new potatoes or fingerling potatoes are excellent choices for roasting.
Potatoes au Gratin: An Indulgent Choice
For a truly decadent side, consider potatoes au gratin. Thinly sliced potatoes layered with cream, cheese (such as Gruyère or Emmental), and garlic create a rich and flavorful dish. The creamy, cheesy potatoes provide a luxurious counterpoint to the hearty beef bourguignon. While more indulgent, it’s a fantastic choice for a special occasion.
Vegetables: Adding Freshness and Balance
While beef bourguignon is a rich and hearty dish, adding vegetables provides freshness, balance, and vital nutrients to the meal.
Root Vegetables: Earthy Undertones
Root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and turnips are excellent additions. Their earthy sweetness complements the savory flavors of the beef and wine. Simply roast them alongside the potatoes, or sauté them in butter with herbs. The slight sweetness of the root vegetables cuts through the richness of the stew, creating a more balanced flavor profile.
Green Vegetables: A Touch of Crispness
Green vegetables like green beans, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts add a touch of freshness and color to the plate. Blanch or sauté them lightly to retain their crispness and vibrant color. A simple dressing of lemon juice and olive oil enhances their natural flavors. The slightly bitter notes of some green vegetables, such as Brussels sprouts, can provide a pleasant contrast to the richness of the bourguignon.
Mushrooms: Enhancing the Earthy Flavors
Since mushrooms are often included in the beef bourguignon itself, serving them as a side dish might seem redundant. However, a different preparation of mushrooms can add another layer of flavor and texture. Sautéing a mixture of wild mushrooms with garlic and herbs creates a flavorful side that complements the earthy notes of the stew. The distinct flavors and textures of different mushroom varieties add complexity to the overall dining experience.
Salads: A Refreshing Counterpoint
A simple green salad provides a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of beef bourguignon. The acidity of the dressing helps to cleanse the palate and prepare it for the next bite.
Simple Green Salad: A Classic Choice
A simple green salad with mixed greens, a light vinaigrette, and perhaps a few toasted nuts or crumbled cheese is a classic choice. The key is to keep the dressing light and acidic to avoid overwhelming the flavors of the stew. A Dijon vinaigrette or a lemon vinaigrette works particularly well.
Beet Salad: A Sweet and Earthy Option
For a more substantial salad, consider a beet salad with roasted beets, goat cheese, and walnuts. The sweetness of the beets, the tanginess of the goat cheese, and the crunch of the walnuts create a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The earthy notes of the beets complement the flavors of the beef bourguignon, while the goat cheese provides a creamy contrast.
The Perfect Wine Pairing: Completing the Experience
Choosing the right wine is crucial to completing the beef bourguignon experience. The wine should complement the flavors of the dish without overpowering them.
Burgundy: A Natural Choice
Since beef bourguignon is made with red Burgundy wine, serving a Burgundy wine alongside it is a natural choice. A Pinot Noir from Burgundy, with its earthy notes, bright acidity, and subtle fruit flavors, pairs beautifully with the stew. Look for a wine from the Côte de Beaune or Côte de Nuits regions. The wine’s acidity cuts through the richness of the bourguignon, while its earthy notes complement the flavors of the beef and mushrooms.
Other Red Wine Options: Expanding the Palette
If you don’t have access to a good Burgundy, other red wines can also pair well with beef bourguignon. A Beaujolais, a Rhône blend, or even a lighter-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon can be good choices. The key is to choose a wine with good acidity, moderate tannins, and earthy or fruity notes. Avoid overly tannic or oaky wines, as they can clash with the flavors of the stew.
Beyond the Basics: Other Accompaniments
While the classic sides and wine pairings provide a solid foundation for a beef bourguignon meal, other accompaniments can further enhance the dining experience.
Egg Noodles or Spaetzle: An Alternative to Potatoes
Egg noodles or spaetzle, small German dumplings, offer an alternative to potatoes for soaking up the delicious sauce. Their slightly chewy texture provides a pleasant contrast to the tender beef. Toss them with butter and herbs, or simply serve them plain.
Polenta: A Creamy and Versatile Option
Creamy polenta, made from cornmeal, provides a comforting and flavorful accompaniment to beef bourguignon. Its smooth, slightly sweet flavor complements the savory notes of the stew. Adding cheese or herbs to the polenta can further enhance its flavor.
Grated Cheese: A Sprinkle of Flavor
A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese or Gruyère cheese can add a touch of flavor to the beef bourguignon. The salty, savory cheese complements the richness of the stew. Be careful not to add too much cheese, as it can overpower the other flavors.
Ultimately, the best accompaniments to beef bourguignon are those that complement the flavors of the dish and enhance the overall dining experience. Experiment with different sides and wine pairings to find your perfect combination. Enjoy!
What are some classic sides to serve with Beef Bourguignon?
Serving Beef Bourguignon, a hearty and rich stew, calls for sides that complement its depth of flavor without overpowering it. Traditional choices often include creamy mashed potatoes, egg noodles (such as tagliatelle or pappardelle), or crusty bread for soaking up the delicious sauce. These options provide a comforting textural contrast and act as a vehicle to fully appreciate the wine-infused gravy.
Beyond these staples, consider polenta, roasted root vegetables (like carrots and parsnips), or even a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette. The key is to choose sides that are relatively neutral or slightly acidic to cut through the richness of the bourguignon. Avoid sides that are overly fatty or intensely flavored, as they may clash with the delicate nuances of the stew.
Can I pair Beef Bourguignon with rice?
While not a traditional pairing in Burgundy, rice can certainly be a suitable accompaniment to Beef Bourguignon. The fluffy texture of white rice, particularly long-grain varieties like basmati, provides a blank canvas for the savory sauce. It’s a practical and accessible option for those seeking a simple and satisfying meal.
However, it’s important to acknowledge that rice lacks the richness and textural contrast offered by other traditional sides. Consider adding a dollop of crème fraîche or sour cream to the rice to elevate the dish and mimic the creamy element found in mashed potatoes. Alternatively, you could opt for wild rice, which has a more nutty and robust flavor profile.
What vegetables pair well with Beef Bourguignon?
Beef Bourguignon already includes some vegetables, but additional sides can enhance the overall dining experience. Root vegetables, such as carrots, parsnips, and potatoes, are natural companions, echoing the earthy tones already present in the stew. Roasting these vegetables brings out their natural sweetness and provides a delightful textural contrast.
Alternatively, green vegetables like green beans, asparagus, or sautéed spinach can add freshness and a pop of color to the plate. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette also serves as an excellent palate cleanser, cutting through the richness of the bourguignon. Avoid overly strong or bitter vegetables, such as broccoli or Brussels sprouts, as they may clash with the wine-based sauce.
What kind of bread should I serve with Beef Bourguignon?
A high-quality crusty bread is essential for soaking up the flavorful sauce of Beef Bourguignon. A traditional baguette or a loaf of sourdough bread is an excellent choice, offering a satisfying chewiness and a slightly tangy flavor that complements the richness of the stew. The crust should be sturdy enough to hold its own when dipped into the gravy.
Avoid soft, sweet breads, as they may detract from the savory experience. If you’re feeling ambitious, consider making your own homemade bread for an extra touch of authenticity. Regardless of your choice, ensure that the bread is fresh and served warm to maximize its appeal. Serving the bread alongside a small dish of olive oil for dipping is another delightful option.
What beverages pair well with Beef Bourguignon besides red wine?
While red wine is the classic pairing for Beef Bourguignon, other beverages can also complement its rich flavors. A full-bodied beer, such as a Belgian dubbel or a brown ale, can provide a satisfying counterpoint to the stew’s heartiness. The malty notes and slight sweetness of these beers can harmonize well with the beef and wine.
For non-alcoholic options, consider sparkling cider or a non-alcoholic red wine alternative. These beverages offer a similar level of acidity and complexity without the alcohol content. Iced tea with lemon or sparkling water with a splash of cranberry juice can also serve as refreshing palate cleansers between bites. Avoid overly sweet or sugary drinks, as they may clash with the savory notes of the dish.
Can I serve a salad with Beef Bourguignon? What kind?
A salad can be a refreshing and welcome addition to a meal of Beef Bourguignon, providing a contrast to its richness and adding a touch of lightness. The best type of salad to serve is a simple green salad with a light and acidic vinaigrette. This will help cut through the richness of the stew and cleanse the palate between bites.
Avoid salads with heavy dressings or creamy elements, as they may compete with the flavors of the bourguignon. A simple vinaigrette made with olive oil, vinegar (such as red wine or balsamic), Dijon mustard, and herbs is an ideal choice. Consider adding some thinly sliced red onion or toasted nuts for extra texture and flavor.
What desserts pair well with Beef Bourguignon?
Following a rich and savory meal like Beef Bourguignon, a light and refreshing dessert is an excellent way to conclude the dining experience. Fruit-based desserts, such as a simple apple tart, pear clafoutis, or a mixed berry crumble, offer a welcome contrast to the stew’s heartiness. The natural sweetness and acidity of the fruit will cleanse the palate.
Alternatively, a light mousse, crème brûlée, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can provide a satisfyingly sweet ending without being overly heavy. Avoid excessively rich or chocolate-heavy desserts, as they may be too overwhelming after the bourguignon. A small cheese plate with a selection of French cheeses and a glass of dessert wine is another elegant and sophisticated option.