Classic Coq au Vin Recipe for a Taste of France

Introduction

Coq au Vin is a traditional French dish that translates to “rooster in wine.” This classic recipe has stood the test of time and continues to be a favorite among food enthusiasts. The dish is known for its rich flavors and tender meat cooked in a savory wine sauce. By following this recipe, you can bring a taste of France to your own kitchen.

Ingredients

• 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces
• 6-8 slices of bacon, chopped
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup of chicken broth
• 2 cups of red wine (such as Burgundy)
• 2 tablespoons of tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour
• A bouquet garni (a bundle of herbs like thyme, parsley, and bay leaves)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons of butter
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil
• Mushrooms and pearl onions for garnish (optional)

Directions

1. Start by seasoning the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
2. In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, cook the chopped bacon until crisp. Remove the bacon and set aside.
3. In the same pot, sear the chicken pieces in batches until they are browned on all sides. Remove the chicken and set aside.
4. Add the chopped onion to the pot and sauté until it becomes translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
5. Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic, stirring to create a roux. Cook for a few minutes until the flour is golden brown.
6. Pour in the red wine and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Add the tomato paste and bouquet garni, then return the chicken and bacon to the pot.
7. Cover the pot and let the Coq au Vin simmer over low heat for about 1.5 to 2 hours until the chicken is tender.
8. In a separate pan, sauté the mushrooms and pearl onions in butter until they are cooked through.
9. Once the chicken is done, remove it from the pot and strain the sauce to remove any solids. Return the sauce to the pot and adjust the seasoning if needed.
10. Serve the Coq au Vin hot, garnished with the sautéed mushrooms and pearl onions. It pairs perfectly with crusty bread or buttery mashed potatoes.

FAQs about Classic Coq au Vin Recipe

What is Coq au Vin?

Coq au Vin is a classic French dish that translates to “rooster in wine.” It traditionally involves braising chicken with red wine, mushrooms, onions, and bacon for a rich and flavorful dish.

What kind of wine is best for Coq au Vin?

A robust red wine, such as a Burgundy or Pinot Noir, is ideal for Coq au Vin. The wine adds depth and complexity to the dish’s sauce while complementing the flavors of the chicken and other ingredients.

How long does it take to cook Coq au Vin?

Preparing Coq au Vin typically takes around 2 to 2.5 hours from start to finish. The dish involves marinating the chicken, browning it, simmering with wine, and then cooking until the chicken is tender and infused with the rich flavors of the sauce.

Can I use chicken other than rooster for Coq au Vin?

Absolutely! While traditional recipes call for a rooster, you can easily substitute it with chicken thighs, legs, or a whole chicken, depending on your preference. The important thing is to use bone-in, skin-on chicken for the best flavor and texture.