Introduction
Coq au Vin is a traditional French dish that translates to “rooster in wine.” This comforting and flavorful dish features chicken braised in red wine with mushrooms, onions, and bacon. It’s perfect for a special dinner or a cozy night at home. Follow this recipe to create a delicious Coq au Vin that will transport you to the French countryside.
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken, cut into 8 pieces
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups red wine (Burgundy or Pinot Noir)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon thyme leaves
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 12 small pearl onions, peeled
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Preparation Steps
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.
- Brown the Chicken:
- Add the olive oil to the pot and increase the heat to medium-high. Brown the chicken pieces on all sides, working in batches if necessary. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- Cook the Vegetables:
- In the same pot, add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and tomato paste, cooking for another 1-2 minutes. Sprinkle the flour over the mixture and stir to combine.
- Add the Liquids:
- Pour in the red wine and chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Add the bay leaf and thyme. Return the chicken and bacon to the pot, making sure the chicken is submerged in the liquid.
- Simmer:
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and cook for 45 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
- Cook the Mushrooms and Onions:
- In a separate skillet, melt a little butter over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and pearl onions, cooking until golden brown and tender, about 10 minutes. Add the mushrooms and onions to the pot with the chicken.
- Finish and Serve:
- Continue to cook the Coq au Vin for another 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Remove the bay leaf before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with crusty bread or mashed potatoes.
Historical Context
Coq au Vin is a classic French dish that dates back to ancient times. It was originally made with older roosters, which required long, slow cooking to become tender. Over time, the recipe evolved to include chicken, making it more accessible while retaining its rich, comforting flavors.
Nutritional Information
Coq au Vin is a hearty and satisfying dish. Here are some key nutritional highlights:
- Protein: Chicken provides a high source of protein.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Vegetables like onions and mushrooms offer essential vitamins and antioxidants.
- Healthy Fats: Olive oil and bacon add flavor and healthy fats.
Conclusion
Coq au Vin is a delicious and comforting dish that brings the flavors of France to your table. Its rich sauce and tender chicken make it a perfect meal for any special occasion. Try this recipe and explore more delightful dishes on our blog!
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