Beans Bourguignon: A Plant-Based Twist on a Classic French Dish

Beans Bourguignon: A Plant-Based Twist on a Classic French Dish

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• Author: Emma lafifi
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

This Beans Bourguignon offers a rich and hearty plant-based take on the classic French dish. Packed with flavor, this recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner!

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Ingredients

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• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 1 cup red wine
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
• 1 bay leaf
• 2 cans white beans, drained and rinsed
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

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Instructions

• In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion, carrots, and celery, and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
• Add minced garlic and mushrooms, cooking for an additional 5 minutes until mushrooms are browned.
• Stir in vegetable broth, red wine, tomato paste, thyme, and bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes.
• Add the beans, season with salt and pepper, and simmer for another 10 minutes until flavors are well combined.
• Remove the bay leaf, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm.

Notes

For extra depth of flavor, use a rich red wine like Merlot. This dish pairs well with crusty bread or mashed potatoes.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Cuisine: French

Nutrition

• Calories: 250 kcal
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 8g
• Protein: 10g

Beans Bourguignon isn’t just a vegetarian alternative to the classic Boeuf Bourguignon; it’s a celebration of hearty ingredients, bold flavors, and plant-based goodness. Whether you’re trying to cut back on meat, embrace a vegetarian lifestyle, or just explore new culinary territory, this dish will surprise and delight your taste buds. Best of all, you get to enjoy that iconic red wine sauce without any of the heaviness of traditional beef-based stews.

Cooking this dish is like having a fun dance with flavors. It’s an exercise in slow, intentional cooking—giving each ingredient its moment to shine. And hey, you’re in for a treat because this article covers not only the recipe but also the health benefits of beans, why this dish works, and a handful of tips to elevate your Bourguignon game to pro-chef status.

So grab your pot, your favorite dry red wine (just a splash for the stew, and the rest for you!), and let’s get cooking!

Ingredients for Beans Bourguignon

Here’s what you’ll need to make this hearty stew:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil – For sautéing.
• 1 large onion – Finely chopped for a sweet aromatic base.
• 2 large carrots – Peeled and sliced into coins.
• 3 cloves garlic – Minced for that sharp, savory kick.
• 8 oz mushrooms – Cremini or portobello work best, adding earthy richness.
• 1 can (15 oz) white beans – Cannellini or Great Northern for a creamy texture.
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans – These bring a different color and slightly firmer bite.
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste – Deepens the flavor of the broth.
• 2 cups vegetable broth – Low-sodium is best for better seasoning control.
• 1 cup red wine – Dry wine like Pinot Noir or Cabernet Sauvignon is ideal.
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce – brings umami and richness.
• 2 bay leaves – For aroma.
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme (or 1 tsp dried) – For fragrance and flavor.
• Salt and pepper – To taste.
• Chopped parsley – For garnish.

How to Make the Perfect Beans Bourguignon

1. Sauté the Aromatics

Start by warming the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add the onions and sauté for about 5 minutes, until they become soft and translucent. Stir in the garlic, cooking for another minute until fragrant. The aroma alone will tell you you’re on the right track!

2. Add the Carrots and Mushrooms

Toss in the sliced carrots and mushrooms, stirring occasionally. Let them cook for 7–10 minutes. You’ll notice the mushrooms releasing their moisture and shrinking. This step intensifies their earthy flavor, adding depth to the dish.

3. Incorporate the Tomato Paste

Once the vegetables are softened, stir in the tomato paste. Cook it for 2 minutes to caramelize slightly—this enhances the stew’s richness and adds a subtle sweetness.

4. Deglaze with Wine

Pour in the wine and use a wooden spoon to scrape up the browned bits at the bottom of the pot (those are pure gold!). Let the wine simmer for about 3 minutes, allowing the alcohol to cook off while concentrating the flavor.

5. Add Broth, Beans, and Herbs

Now, add the vegetable broth and soy sauce, followed by the white and kidney beans. Add the bay leaves and thyme, stirring to combine everything. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

6. Simmer the Stew

Cover the pot and allow the stew to simmer for 30–40 minutes. Stir occasionally and check if more liquid is needed—if it’s too thick, add a splash of broth. The longer you let it simmer, the more the flavors meld together.

7. Season and Garnish

Once the beans are tender and the sauce is rich, season the dish with salt and pepper to taste. Remove the bay leaves. Serve the Bourguignon hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Serving Suggestions

Beans Bourguignon is versatile enough to pair with a range of sides. Here are some excellent options:

• Mashed potatoes – Smooth and buttery, perfect for soaking up the sauce.
• Crusty bread – Ideal for mopping every last drop from your bowl.
• Buttered egg noodles – A comforting classic.
• Lightly steamed green beans – Adds color and crunch to your plate.
• Garden salad – Balances out the richness with some freshness.

What Makes This Recipe So Good?

1. Rich, Satisfying Flavors

Even without meat, this dish packs the same depth and heartiness as the traditional version. The mushrooms provide an almost meaty bite, while the beans bring creaminess and substance.

2. Loaded with Nutrients

White and kidney beans are nutritional powerhouses. They’re loaded with fiber, plant-based protein, and minerals like iron, potassium, and magnesium. The vegetables add vitamins A and C, and the broth keeps things light yet flavorful.

3. A Healthier Alternative

By swapping out the beef, this dish becomes lower in saturated fat and cholesterol. It’s heart-friendly, plant-based, and equally filling. With Beans Bourguignon, you won’t miss the beef—promise!

The Health Benefits of Beans

1. Fiber Powerhouse
   Beans are rich in dietary fiber, which promotes healthy digestion, reduces cholesterol levels, and stabilizes blood sugar.
2. Plant-Based Protein
   They’re a great source of protein for vegetarians and vegans. This dish provides a well-rounded meal with all the amino acids you need.
3. Heart Health
   Studies show that a diet high in beans can reduce the risk of heart disease and lower blood pressure. Their potassium content helps keep blood pressure in check.
4. Affordable and Accessible
   Beans are budget-friendly and available year-round. Whether canned or dried, they’re an easy addition to any pantry.

Tips for Elevating Your Beans Bourguignon

• Choose the Right Wine:
  Avoid cooking wine, as it contains added salt and preservatives. Go for a dry wine that you’d enjoy drinking.
• Take Your Time:
  Letting the stew simmer for an extra 15–20 minutes deepens the flavor. If you’re not in a hurry, allow it to simmer longer for even better results.
• Don’t Skip the Mushrooms:
  These fungi are essential to replicate the umami flavor of beef. Their texture adds a satisfying chewiness to the dish.
• Add a Splash of Balsamic Vinegar:
  Stirring in a teaspoon of balsamic at the end adds complexity to the flavor, balancing the sweetness and acidity.
• Make It Ahead:
  Like most stews, Beans Bourguignon tastes better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. This dish is a meal prep champion!

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

• Calories: 280
• Protein: 12g
• Fat: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 9g
• Sodium: 400mg

This stew is not only delicious but also fits perfectly into a balanced diet. It’s hearty enough for dinner but light enough to enjoy without feeling weighed down.

Final Thoughts from Emma Lafifi

Beans Bourguignon is proof that comfort food doesn’t need to be heavy or meat-based. It’s a dish that brings joy with every spoonful, whether you’re sharing it with friends or enjoying it solo on a cozy night in.

The combination of beans and mushrooms ensures a rich texture that mimics beef, while the wine-infused broth keeps things luxurious. And let’s not forget the health benefits—this dish is packed with nutrients that support heart health, digestion, and overall well-being.

So, the next time you’re in the mood for something indulgent yet nourishing, give this Beans Bourguignon a try. Your taste buds—and your heart—will thank you. And remember, as always, the secret ingredient is love (and maybe just a little more wine).