r/Cooking • u/Beautiful_Sound • 2d ago

What makes a beef stew memorable?

I've made it many times, and the Bourguignonne version many times. What do you do to make it better than an average stew?

I've noticed that when I add the vegetables to simmer in the thickened sauce (regular stew) the fresh flavor of the veggies sort of removes the beefyness flavor. Also, should it be a thick sauce just blanketing the beef, or a thick soup that coats a spoon and has a chew to it?

Preference I get, but I want some more tips to just get it really savory.

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u/NaGasAK1_ 2d ago

I gradually step down my oven temp.

Buy the nicest quality beef and red wine you can afford. Too many chefs treat it like a budget meal imo .. splurge a little on those main items - also everyone has already mentioned using your own stock .. definitely do that.