Tess Makes Coq au Vin for the First Time
Recipe Overview
Overview
Coq au Vin is a classic French dish that embodies the essence of comfort food. The recipe begins with a base of crispy bacon, which infuses the dish with a smoky flavor. As the bacon cooks, the chicken is added, allowing it to absorb the savory notes from the bacon fat. The addition of red wine not only deepens the flavor but also tenderizes the chicken, making it incredibly juicy.
The use of aromatic herbs like thyme and bay leaves, along with garlic and onions, creates a fragrant stew that fills the kitchen with delightful scents. The mushrooms add an earthy element, while the flour thickens the sauce to a luxurious consistency. This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner, especially when served with roasted potatoes or crusty bread to soak up the rich sauce.
What makes Coq au Vin truly special is its ability to bring people together. It’s a dish that invites conversation and enjoyment, making it ideal for gatherings or family meals. With its rich history and comforting flavors, it’s no wonder this classic has stood the test of time. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is approachable and rewarding, ensuring a delightful experience in the kitchen.
Recipe Details
Steps & Tips
Chop mushrooms in half, parsley for garnish, and bacon into strips.
Melt butter in a Dutch oven.
Add bacon to the melted butter and cook until crispy.
Tip: When cooking bacon, be cautious as it can pop and splatter.
Add chicken to the pot and season with salt.
Flambé the chicken to enhance flavor.
Add wine to the pot after flambéing.
Tip: Flambéing helps to burn off the alcohol from the wine.
Add chicken stock to the pot.
Stir in tomato paste.
Add garlic, thyme sprigs, and bay leaf.
Cover the pot and cook for 30 minutes.
After 30 minutes, add the cooked bacon back into the pot.
Sauté mushrooms and pearl onions in butter.
Tip: Cover onions with chicken stock while cooking to enhance flavor.
Cover the sautéed onions and mushrooms with chicken stock and simmer.
Remove chicken, bacon, and herbs from the pot.
Increase heat and let the sauce simmer to thicken.
Whisk in a mixture of butter and flour to the sauce.
Add back the chicken, mushrooms, and onions to the pot.
Tip: Roasted potatoes are a traditional side for coq au vin.
Serve the coq au vin with roasted potatoes.
Garnish the dish with parsley before serving.
Tip: Garnish with parsley for a fancy presentation.
Ingredients
Ingredient: Dairy
→ Substitution: Coconut Oil
Ingredient: Gluten
→ Substitution: Gluten-Free Flour
Nutrition
Skill Level
Frequently asked questions
Below you will find answers to the most common questions about this recipe.
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Interesting Tidbits
- •Coq au Vin literally means 'rooster in wine', but chicken is commonly used for its tenderness.
- •The dish is traditionally cooked with red wine, which adds depth and richness to the flavor.
- •Bacon is used to enhance the dish's flavor, providing a savory base for the stew.
- •Cooking the chicken with the skin on helps to retain moisture and flavor during the cooking process.
