Boeuf Bourguignon, Julia Child’s iconic French beef stew, is a dish celebrated for its rich, deeply flavorful profile. This hearty stew, simmered in red wine with bacon, mushrooms, and onions, is a meal in itself. However, choosing the right side dishes can elevate your Boeuf Bourguignon experience from delicious to unforgettable. If you’re wondering What To Serve With Boeuf Bourguignon to create a complete and balanced meal, you’ve come to the right place. Let’s explore a variety of classic and complementary side dishes that will perfectly enhance this timeless French classic.
Julia Child
Classic & Comforting Sides for Boeuf Bourguignon
When it comes to Boeuf Bourguignon, sometimes the most traditional pairings are the best. These classic side dishes not only complement the stew’s richness but also provide a comforting and satisfying element to your meal.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes are arguably the most popular and beloved side dish for Boeuf Bourguignon, and for good reason. The creamy, smooth texture of mashed potatoes provides a beautiful contrast to the chunky, hearty stew. Moreover, mashed potatoes act as the perfect vessel for soaking up the luscious red wine sauce, ensuring not a single drop of flavor is left behind. For an extra touch of indulgence, consider adding butter, cream cheese, or roasted garlic to your mashed potatoes.
Simple Boiled Potatoes
If you prefer a less rich option, simple boiled potatoes are an excellent choice. Their mild flavor and slightly firm texture offer a pleasant counterpoint to the intense flavors of the Boeuf Bourguignon. Boiled potatoes can be served whole, halved, or quartered, and are delicious simply tossed with butter, parsley, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. They provide a clean and straightforward side that allows the stew to remain the star of the meal.
Crusty Bread for Sopping Up the Sauce
Never underestimate the power of good crusty bread. A loaf of French baguette, sourdough, or artisan bread is essential for any Boeuf Bourguignon meal. The crusty exterior and soft interior are perfect for dipping into and sopping up every last bit of that incredible red wine sauce. Bread is not just a side dish; it’s a tool to fully appreciate the flavors of your Boeuf Bourguignon. Consider warming the bread slightly to enhance its aroma and texture.
A cast iron skillet filled with cooked mushrooms
Fresh Vegetable Sides to Balance Richness
To cut through the richness of Boeuf Bourguignon and add a touch of freshness and lightness to your meal, consider serving vegetable side dishes. These options provide contrasting textures and flavors that complement the stew beautifully.
Green Peas
As Julia Child herself suggested, green peas are a classic and simple side dish for Boeuf Bourguignon. Their slight sweetness and vibrant green color offer a refreshing contrast to the deep, savory stew. You can serve them simply steamed or sautéed with butter and a hint of mint for an elevated touch. Green peas are a quick and easy way to add a healthy and visually appealing element to your plate.
Roasted Root Vegetables
Roasted root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes offer a slightly sweet and earthy counterpoint to Boeuf Bourguignon. Roasting brings out their natural sweetness and creates a caramelized exterior that is incredibly flavorful. Toss them with olive oil, herbs like thyme or rosemary, salt, and pepper before roasting for a simple yet elegant side. The roasted vegetables provide a hearty and nutritious addition that complements the stew’s robust flavors.
Sautéed Green Beans or Asparagus
For a lighter green vegetable option, consider sautéed green beans or asparagus. These vegetables offer a crisp-tender texture and fresh, slightly grassy flavors that balance the richness of the Boeuf Bourguignon. Simply sauté them with olive oil, garlic, and a squeeze of lemon juice for a bright and flavorful side dish. A sprinkle of toasted almonds or Parmesan cheese can add extra texture and flavor complexity.
A ladle filled with Julia Child
Grain-Based Sides for a Heartier Meal
If you’re looking to make your Boeuf Bourguignon meal even more substantial, grain-based side dishes are excellent choices. These options provide additional carbohydrates and textures that complement the stew.
Buttered Egg Noodles
Buttered egg noodles are another classic pairing for beef stew, and they work wonderfully with Boeuf Bourguignon. Their soft, slightly chewy texture is perfect for absorbing the rich sauce, similar to mashed potatoes but with a different mouthfeel. Simply toss cooked egg noodles with butter, parsley, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper for a simple and satisfying side.
Creamy Polenta or Risotto
For a more sophisticated grain side, consider creamy polenta or risotto. Their smooth, luxurious texture and mild flavor provide a wonderful backdrop for the bold flavors of Boeuf Bourguignon. Polenta or risotto can be made with cheese, herbs, or even mushrooms to further complement the stew. These options elevate the meal to a restaurant-quality experience.
Steamed Rice
While perhaps less traditional, steamed rice, especially a fluffy white rice or slightly nutty brown rice, can also be served with Boeuf Bourguignon. Rice provides a neutral base that soaks up the sauce and offers a simple and satisfying carbohydrate element. For added flavor, consider cooking the rice in beef broth or adding a bay leaf to the cooking water.
Light and Fresh Salad Sides
To completely balance the richness of Boeuf Bourguignon and cleanse the palate, a fresh salad is an excellent choice. A simple salad can provide a welcome contrast in texture and flavor.
Simple Green Salad with Vinaigrette
A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette is a perfect way to cut through the richness of the stew. Use mixed greens, such as romaine, spinach, or arugula, and dress with a classic vinaigrette made with olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, and herbs. The acidity of the vinaigrette and the freshness of the greens provide a refreshing counterpoint to the hearty Boeuf Bourguignon. Consider adding some shaved shallots or a sprinkle of fresh herbs to your salad for extra flavor.
Wine Pairing Suggestions
While technically not a side dish, the right wine can significantly enhance your Boeuf Bourguignon meal. Since Boeuf Bourguignon is made with red wine, serving a complementary red wine is a natural choice. Consider a Burgundy (like the recipe suggests), Beaujolais, or Côtes du Rhône, as these wines often have earthy and fruity notes that harmonize with the stew’s flavors. A lighter-bodied Pinot Noir can also be a delightful pairing.
Close up of a pot of Julia Child
Conclusion: Creating Your Perfect Boeuf Bourguignon Meal
Choosing what to serve with Boeuf Bourguignon is all about creating balance and enhancing the overall dining experience. Whether you opt for classic mashed potatoes, fresh green vegetables, hearty grains, or a light salad, the key is to select side dishes that complement the rich flavors of the stew without overpowering it. Experiment with different pairings to discover your personal favorites and enjoy the process of creating a memorable Boeuf Bourguignon feast. Bon appétit!
