15 simplified Julia Child recipes to celebrate her birthday in style

Boeuf Bourguignon

Here’s a shortcut way to make this classic French beef stew. Start by browning 3 pounds of beef chuck cut into 2-inch cubes. Then add 1 sliced onion, 1 sliced carrot, a few strips of sliced bacon and a bay leaf. When browned, deglaze with 3 cups of Burgundy wine (or any other full-bodied red), and add 2 cups beef stock, 1 tablespoon tomato paste, 2 mashed garlic cloves and ½ teaspoon thyme. Cook on low so that it gently simmers for about 3 hours. You can also add a can of mushrooms at the end, and serve over mashed potatoes, rice or noodles.