Beef Bourguignon, that rich and deeply flavorful French stew, is a classic for a reason. But what do you serve with it to make a complete and unforgettable meal? Let’s explore some delicious side dishes that perfectly complement this hearty dish.
Beef Bourguignon, at its heart, is a slow-cooked beef stew braised in red wine, typically with mushrooms, onions, and bacon. Its robust flavor profile calls for sides that can either cut through the richness or enhance the earthy notes.
Here’s a breakdown of excellent side dish options, keeping in mind both classic pairings and some creative twists.
### Classic Comfort Sides
These sides are traditional for a reason – they offer the perfect textures and flavors to balance the richness of the stew.
* **Potatoes:** Creamy, starchy potatoes are a natural pairing.
* **Mashed Potatoes:** A classic choice! Fluffy mashed potatoes soak up the delicious sauce beautifully. Consider adding garlic, herbs, or even a touch of horseradish for extra flavor.
* **Roasted Potatoes:** Crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, roasted potatoes offer a textural contrast to the tender beef. Toss them with herbs like rosemary or thyme before roasting.
* **Potato Gratin:** Thinly sliced potatoes baked in a creamy, cheesy sauce. This decadent side is perfect for a special occasion.
* **Noodles:** Another great way to soak up that amazing sauce.
* **Egg Noodles:** Their richness complements the stew. A simple buttered egg noodle is a great option, or you can toss them with herbs and Parmesan cheese.
* **Pasta:** Any short pasta shape will work well. Consider penne, farfalle, or rotini.
* **Bread:** Crusty bread is essential for soaking up every last drop of the flavorful sauce.
* **French Baguette:** A classic choice!
* **Sourdough Bread:** The tangy flavor of sourdough provides a nice contrast to the richness of the stew.
### Vegetable Sides
Adding a vegetable side dish provides a welcome dose of freshness and nutrients to the meal.
* **Green Vegetables:**
* **Green Beans:** Steamed, sautéed, or roasted green beans offer a crisp, fresh contrast. A simple vinaigrette or a sprinkle of toasted almonds adds extra flavor.
* **Asparagus:** Another great green option that can be steamed, roasted, or grilled.
* **Broccoli:** Roasting broccoli brings out its natural sweetness, making it a delicious and healthy side.
* **Other Vegetables:**
* **Roasted Carrots:** The sweetness of roasted carrots pairs well with the savory flavors of the stew.
* **Brussels Sprouts:** Roasted Brussels sprouts, especially when caramelized, offer a nutty and slightly sweet flavor that complements the beef bourguignon.
* **Mushroom Risotto:** Enhance the mushroom flavors already in the stew with a creamy mushroom risotto.
### Salads
A light and refreshing salad can cut through the richness of the stew and provide a welcome contrast in texture.
* **Simple Green Salad:** A basic green salad with a light vinaigrette is a perfect palate cleanser.
* **Arugula Salad:** The peppery flavor of arugula adds a nice bite to the meal. Toss it with a lemon vinaigrette and some shaved Parmesan cheese.
* **Beet Salad:** The earthy sweetness of beets pairs well with the rich flavors of the stew.
### Tips for Choosing Sides
* **Consider the Season:** Choose seasonal vegetables for the freshest flavors.
* **Think About Texture:** Offer a variety of textures to keep the meal interesting. Combine creamy, crunchy, and tender elements.
* **Don’t Overdo It:** Beef Bourguignon is a rich and hearty dish, so you don’t need a lot of side dishes. One or two well-chosen sides are usually enough.
* **Prep Ahead:** Choose side dishes that can be prepped ahead of time to make meal preparation easier.
### Wine Pairing
Don’t forget the wine! A red Burgundy is the classic pairing for Beef Bourguignon, as it is made with the same Pinot Noir grapes used in the stew. Other good options include Beaujolais, Côtes du Rhône, or other medium-bodied red wines.
### FAQ
* **What is the most traditional side dish for beef bourguignon?**
Mashed potatoes are probably the most traditional side dish. Their creamy texture and mild flavor make them a perfect complement to the rich and flavorful stew.
* **Can I serve rice with beef bourguignon?**
While not traditional, rice can be a good option if you prefer it to potatoes or noodles. Choose a long-grain rice like basmati or jasmine.
* **What can I serve if I don’t like mushrooms?**
If you don’t like mushrooms, you can simply omit them from the stew. As for side dishes, focus on other vegetables like roasted carrots, green beans, or Brussels sprouts.
* **Can I make beef bourguignon ahead of time?**
Yes! In fact, beef bourguignon often tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had a chance to meld.
Enjoy your delicious and complete Beef Bourguignon meal!