Beef Bourguignon with a Twist

This classic French Beef Bourguignon recipe is elevated with creative touches, such as the addition of dark chocolate for depth and rich flavor. Tender beef is slow-cooked with aromatic vegetables and a hint of red wine, resulting in a hearty and flavorful dish that respects traditional methods while embracing a modern twist.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 2-inch pieces
• 1 bottle (750 ml) red wine (preferably Burgundy)
• 2 cups beef broth
• 4 slices of bacon, chopped
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 cup pearl onions, peeled
• 8 oz mushrooms, quartered
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 2 oz dark chocolate (70% cocoa), chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. In a large Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pot.
2. In the same pot, add the beef chunks and brown on all sides. Remove the beef and set aside.
3. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and carrots to the pot and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the tomato paste, thyme, and bay leaves, cooking for an additional minute.
5. Return the beef and bacon to the pot. Sprinkle the flour over the mixture and stir to coat.
6. Pour in the red wine and beef broth, ensuring the beef is submerged. Bring to a simmer, cover, and reduce the heat to low.
7. Cook for 2-3 hours, or until the beef is tender.
8. In the last 30 minutes of cooking, add the pearl onions and mushrooms.
9. Before serving, stir in the chopped dark chocolate until melted and fully incorporated. Season with salt and pepper.
10. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes.