Experience the heartwarming essence of French cuisine with this coq au vin recipe. This classic dish combines tender chicken with rich red wine sauce, earthy mushrooms, and fragrant herbs, creating a delightful symphony of flavors. Ideal for cozy family dinners or special gatherings, coq au vin is sure to impress your guests and leave them asking for seconds. Let’s dive into this culinary adventure!
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces
- 750 ml red wine (preferably Burgundy)
- 2 cups chicken stock
- 150 g lardons (or bacon, diced)
- 2 cups mushrooms, quartered
- 2 medium onions, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 3 sprigs thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 20 minutes, and cooking time is around 2 hours.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 piece of chicken with sauce) contains approximately:
– Calories: 450
– Protein: 35g
– Carbohydrates: 15g
– Fat: 25g
This nutritional value is calculated for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Start by marinating the chicken in red wine for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.
- In a large Dutch oven, cook the lardons over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, brown the chicken pieces on both sides. Remove and set aside.
- Add onions and garlic to the pot, sauté until softened.
- Stir in the flour and tomato paste, cooking for about 2 minutes.
- Slowly pour in the red wine and chicken stock, stirring to combine.
- Add the chicken back into the pot along with thyme and bay leaf.
- Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for about 1 hour.
- In the last 30 minutes, add the mushrooms and lardons.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute the red wine with a non-alcoholic red wine or grape juice if desired. For a lighter dish, use chicken breast instead of whole chicken pieces. Additionally, feel free to mix in other vegetables like carrots or celery for added flavor.
Serving and Pairings
Coq au vin pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes, crusty French bread, or a fresh green salad. A glass of the same red wine used for cooking enhances the dining experience.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover coq au vin in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat until heated through. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t rush the marinating process; it enhances flavor.
- Avoid overcrowding the pot when browning the chicken.
- Don’t skip straining the sauce for a smoother texture.
- Be cautious with seasoning; taste as you go.
- Use a good quality wine for best results.
- Don’t forget to let the dish rest before serving; it helps flavors meld.
- Remember to remove the bay leaf before serving!
Helpful Tips
- For an extra layer of flavor, add a splash of brandy when sautéing the onions.
- Use homemade chicken stock for a richer taste.
- Let the dish cool completely before storing to avoid condensation.
- Try using a mix of wild mushrooms for a more complex flavor.
- Serve with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for color and freshness.
FAQs
Can I make coq au vin in advance?
Yes, coq au vin can be made a day ahead. The flavors deepen overnight, making it even more delicious! Just reheat gently before serving.
What type of wine is best for coq au vin?
A full-bodied red wine like Burgundy or Pinot Noir works best, as it complements the flavors of the dish perfectly.
Can I use chicken breasts instead of a whole chicken?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but cooking time will be shorter. Adjust accordingly to ensure they remain juicy.
Is coq au vin gluten-free?
This recipe contains flour for thickening, but you can use a gluten-free flour substitute to make it gluten-free.
How long does coq au vin last in the fridge?
Stored properly in an airtight container, coq au vin will last in the fridge for 3 days.
Conclusion
Coq au vin is a timeless French dish that brings warmth and flavor to any table. With its rich sauce and tender chicken, this recipe is perfect for both special occasions and comforting family dinners. Try it today and enjoy the delightful taste of France in your own home!
Coq Au Vin
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken cut into pieces
- 750 ml red wine
- 2 cups chicken stock
- 150 g lardons or bacon, diced
- 2 cups mushrooms quartered
- 2 medium onions chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 3 sprigs thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken in red wine for at least 2 hours.
- In a large Dutch oven, cook the lardons until crispy. Remove and set aside.
- Brown the chicken pieces on both sides in the same pot. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté onions and garlic until softened.
- Stir in flour and tomato paste, cooking for about 2 minutes.
- Slowly pour in red wine and chicken stock, stirring to combine.
- Add chicken back into the pot with thyme and bay leaf.
- Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for about 1 hour.
- In the last 30 minutes, add mushrooms and lardons.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.
