Beef Bourguignon

Rich and Hearty:
Beef Bourguignon

Easy to prepare with a wonderful aroma to come home to, this rich stew is certain to please. Give yourself around 20 minutes of prep. time, and 8 hours or so in the crock pot on low, or as little as 4 hours on high.

INGREDIENTS:

5 slices bacon, finely chopped
3 lbs. boneless beef stew meat
5 Medium Carrots, sliced
1 pound tri-color baby potatoes
3 garlic cloves finely chopped
2 Tbls. thyme finely chopped
Try adding a bay leaf for a variation on the flavor
8 ounces fresh sliced mushrooms

Sauce:
1 cup red cooking wine
2 cups beef (or chicken) broth
1/2 cup tomato sauce
1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup flour

Parsley for garnish if desired

DIRECTIONS:
Cook bacon until crisp and transfer to the crock pot.
Sear Beef in the bacon grease - turning to cook each side 2-3 minutes.
Transfer to crock pot.
While searing beef, chop carrots and potatoes to bite size pieces and add to crock pot.
Add the garlic and thyme to crock pot as well.
Add the mushrooms last.

Sauce:
Add red wine to previously used pan and scrape any / all bits together.
Allow to simmer while adding broth, tomato and soy sauce.
Whisk in the flour, simmer till slightly thickened and then transfer the sauce to the crock pot.

TIME SAVER:
If you are running short of time, cook the potatoes in a microwave for 4-5 minutes, and separately the carrots in a bit of the broth for about 2 minutes, before transferring to crock pot.


For a more vegetable intense experience, try substituting blended riced cauliflower for the flour.
Onions can also be added if your family enjoys them.

Notes: The wine imparts a rich flavor, and the alcohol does cook off so there are no concerns serving this delicious stew to your children.