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Coq Au Vin: An Easy Recipe for a Classic French Dish

When it comes to hearty, comforting meals, few dishes can rival the richness and warmth of Coq Au Vin. This traditional French dish, which literally translates to "rooster in wine," is a perfect blend of tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and the deep flavours of red wine. Although it hails from the countryside of France, making this delectable dish at home can be surprisingly easy. Here, we present a simple recipe that anyone can follow, bringing a touch of France to your kitchen.

What is Coq Au Vin?

Coq Au Vin is a rustic dish that celebrates the flavours of the countryside. Traditionally, it was made with a rooster simmered slowly in red wine, infused with herbs and aromatics. However, modern recipes typically use chicken, making it accessible to everyone. The cooking process allows the meat to become tender and juicy, while the wine creates a rich sauce that can be served with crusty bread or fluffy mashed potatoes.

Ingredients

To create a delightful Coq Au Vin, gather the following ingredients:

• 1.5 kg (3.3 lbs) chicken thighs and drumsticks (skin-on for flavour)
• 200 g (7 oz) bacon or pancetta, chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cups (480 ml) red wine (a good quality Burgundy or Pinot Noir works well)
• 1 cup (240 ml) chicken stock
• 2 tablespoons brandy (optional, but recommended)
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 200 g (7 oz) mushrooms, halved
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 teaspoons fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by patting the chicken dry with kitchen paper. This helps to achieve a beautiful golden colour when searing. Season generously with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

In a large heavy-based pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon or pancetta and cook until it is crispy. Once done, remove it from the pot and set it aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

In the same pot, increase the heat to medium-high. Add the chicken pieces, skin-side down, and sear them until golden brown on both sides. This should take about 5-7 minutes for each side. Once browned, remove the chicken and set it aside with the bacon.

Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables

In the remaining fat, add the chopped onion, carrots, and garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onions are translucent. Stir in the mushrooms and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.

Step 5: Build the Sauce

Return the bacon and chicken to the pot. Stir in the tomato paste, thyme, and bay leaves. Pour in the red wine and chicken stock, ensuring the chicken is submerged in the liquid. If using, add the brandy at this stage.

Step 6: Simmer

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 1.5 hours, or until the chicken is tender and easily pulls away from the bone. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 7: Final Touches

Once the chicken is cooked, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. If the sauce is too thin, you can remove the chicken and simmer the sauce uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes to thicken it.

Step 8: Serve

Serve your Coq Au Vin hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley. Pair it with crusty bread, egg noodles, or creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce.

Conclusion

Coq Au Vin is not just a meal; it’s an experience that encapsulates the essence of French cuisine—simple yet fabulously flavourful. With this easy recipe, you can enjoy the rich flavours of this traditional dish right in your own home. Perfect for a family gathering or a cosy dinner, Coq Au Vin is sure to impress and satisfy all palates. Enjoy your culinary journey to France without ever leaving your kitchen!

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