Classic French Beef Stew and Mushrooms

Classic French Beef Stew and Mushrooms is a warm and hearty dish that everyone will love. It’s perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in. The rich flavors of the beef, bacon, and mushrooms come together beautifully in this comforting stew.

Why Make This Recipe

You’ll want to make this stew because it’s simple and delicious! It warms you up from the inside out, making it great for chilly nights. Plus, it’s a wonderful dish to share with family and friends. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again.

How to Make Classic French Beef Stew and Mushrooms

Ingredients:

• 3 lbs beef chuck, cut into 2-inch pieces
• 6 slices bacon, chopped
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 carrots, sliced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cups beef broth
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 lb mushrooms, quartered
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 bouquet garni (thyme, bay leaves, parsley)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the bacon and cook until crisp. Remove the bacon and set it aside.
3. Season the beef with salt and pepper, then brown it in the same pot in batches. Remove and set aside with the bacon.
4. In the same pot, add the onion, carrots, and garlic. Cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and stir to coat, scraping the bottom of the pot.
6. Return the beef and bacon to the pot.
7. Add the tomato paste and bouquet garni.
8. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cover. Cook for about 2 hours.
9. In a separate pan, sauté the mushrooms in a bit of oil until golden.
10. Add the mushrooms to the stew in the last 30 minutes of cooking.

How to Serve Classic French Beef Stew and Mushrooms

Serve this stew hot in large bowls. You can add some crusty bread on the side to soak up the delicious sauce. Fresh parsley on top adds a nice touch!

How to Store Classic French Beef Stew and Mushrooms

Let the stew cool completely before storing. Place it in an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just thaw and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy it again!

Tips to Make Classic French Beef Stew and Mushrooms

• Use a good quality beef broth for the best flavor.
• Don’t rush the browning of the beef; it adds depth to the stew.
• Feel free to add other vegetables like potatoes or peas if you like!

Variation (if any)

You can make this stew using lamb instead of beef for a different flavor. Adding red wine can also enhance the richness of the stew.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of meat? Yes, you can use lamb or even chicken, but cooking times may vary.

2. Is this recipe suitable for meal prep? Absolutely! It stores well and tastes even better the next day.

3. How can I make it thicker? If you want a thicker stew, you can add more flour or let it simmer uncovered for a while.