Beef Bourguignon Vegetarian Recipe Made Easy and Delicious

Updated On: October 5, 2025

If you love the rich, comforting flavors of classic Beef Bourguignon but are looking for a vegetarian twist, you’re in for a treat! This Beef Bourguignon Vegetarian Recipe captures all the deep, savory notes of the traditional French stew, but swaps out beef for hearty mushrooms and other vegetables that soak up the delicious wine-based sauce beautifully.

Perfect for cozy nights in or impressing guests, this dish is both satisfying and wholesome.

Whether you’re a committed vegetarian, trying to cut down on meat, or simply want to explore new flavors, this recipe offers a luscious, flavorful alternative that doesn’t compromise on taste or texture.

Imagine tender mushrooms, pearl onions, carrots, and herbs simmered in a robust red wine sauce that’ll have your taste buds dancing. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that brings French elegance straight to your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Beef Bourguignon is renowned for its deep, earthy flavors and tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture. This vegetarian version perfectly recreates that experience without meat, making it accessible for everyone.

Here’s why this recipe stands out:

  • Rich umami flavors: Using a medley of mushrooms and vegetable broth, the dish delivers that signature savory depth.
  • Comfort food at its best: Slow-cooked vegetables and wine create a luxurious, hearty stew perfect for chilly evenings.
  • Easy to customize: This recipe is versatile, allowing you to add your favorite veggies or swap ingredients to suit your palate.
  • Impress your guests: Elegant enough for dinner parties yet simple enough for weeknight meals.

Ingredients

  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 12 oz cremini mushrooms, halved or quartered
  • 8 oz portobello mushrooms, chopped into chunks
  • 2 cups pearl onions, peeled (or frozen, thawed)
  • 3 large carrots, sliced into thick rounds
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 ½ cups dry red wine (Pinot Noir or Burgundy preferred)
  • 2 teaspoons fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
  • 2 bay leaves
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
  • 2 tablespoons butter (or vegan butter for vegan option)

Equipment

  • Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
  • Wooden spoon
  • Chef’s knife
  • Cutting board
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Mixing bowl
  • Stove and oven (oven optional)
  • Serving bowls or plates

Instructions

  1. Prepare the vegetables: Start by peeling the pearl onions. If fresh ones aren’t available, thaw frozen pearl onions. Chop onions, garlic, carrots, and mushrooms as directed.
  2. Sauté the onions and garlic: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in your pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
  3. Cook the mushrooms: Add cremini and portobello mushrooms along with a pinch of salt. Sauté until they release their moisture and start to brown, roughly 8-10 minutes.
  4. Add the pearl onions and carrots: Stir in pearl onions and carrots, cook for another 5 minutes to slightly soften them.
  5. Stir in tomato paste: Add the tomato paste, stirring well to coat the vegetables. Cook for 2 minutes to develop flavor.
  6. Deglaze with wine: Pour in the red wine, scraping the bottom of the pot to lift any browned bits. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes to reduce slightly.
  7. Add broth and herbs: Pour in the vegetable broth, and add thyme and bay leaves. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  8. Simmer the stew: Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer gently for 45 minutes to 1 hour. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and allow flavors to meld.
  9. Thicken the sauce (optional): If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix 2 tablespoons of flour with 2 tablespoons of softened butter to create a paste (beurre manié). Stir this into the stew and cook uncovered for another 10-15 minutes until thickened.
  10. Final seasoning and serve: Remove bay leaves and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Tips & Variations

“For an even richer flavor, try roasting the mushrooms and vegetables before adding them to the stew. This caramelizes their natural sugars and adds depth.”

  • Vegan version: Use vegan butter or olive oil in place of butter, and ensure your vegetable broth is vegan-friendly.
  • Additional veggies: Add parsnips, turnips, or baby potatoes to bulk up the stew.
  • Wine substitutes: If you prefer not to use wine, a mix of grape juice and balsamic vinegar works as a good alternative.
  • Make it ahead: This stew tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount per Serving
Calories 280 kcal
Protein 8 g
Carbohydrates 22 g
Fat 18 g
Fiber 5 g
Sodium 420 mg

Serving Suggestions

This vegetarian Bourguignon pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes or buttery egg noodles to soak up the luscious sauce.

For a lighter option, serve it alongside crusty French bread and a crisp green salad. A glass of the same red wine used in cooking is perfect to complement the flavors.

If you’re interested in other vegetarian dishes, be sure to check out our Julie Marie Eats Recipes for more inspiration!

Conclusion

This Beef Bourguignon Vegetarian Recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy the classic flavors of French cuisine without meat. Using mushrooms and hearty vegetables, it delivers a deeply satisfying, savory experience that’s perfect for both vegetarians and meat-eaters alike.

The slow simmering in red wine and herbs creates a rich sauce that’s both comforting and elegant.

Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a cozy night in, this dish is sure to impress. Plus, it’s easy to customize based on your preferences and dietary needs.

Don’t forget to explore more flavorful recipes like our Kosher Sushi Salad Recipe and the indulgent Marzipan Challah Recipe to keep your menu exciting!

Enjoy cooking this vegetarian twist on a classic, and bon appétit!

📖 Recipe Card: Beef Bourguignon Vegetarian Recipe

Description: A hearty and flavorful vegetarian twist on the classic French beef bourguignon using mushrooms and lentils. Rich in taste and perfect for a comforting meal.

Prep Time: PT20M
Cook Time: PT1H30M
Total Time: PT1H50M

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 cups cremini mushrooms, sliced
  • 1 cup dried green lentils, rinsed
  • 2 medium carrots, sliced
  • 2 celery stalks, sliced
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 cup red wine
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Add onion and garlic; sauté until translucent.
  3. Add mushrooms and cook until browned.
  4. Stir in carrots, celery, and tomato paste; cook for 2 minutes.
  5. Pour in red wine and simmer until reduced by half.
  6. Add lentils, vegetable broth, thyme, and bay leaf.
  7. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer covered for 1 hour.
  8. Season with salt and pepper.
  9. Remove bay leaf and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Nutrition: Calories: 350 kcal | Protein: 18 g | Fat: 7 g | Carbs: 50 g

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Marta K

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