Coq Au Vin Vanwell
There’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of a classic French dish simmering away in your kitchen on a cozy evening. Coq Au Vin Vanwell, a delightful variation of the traditional coq au vin, combines tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and a rich, flavorful sauce that will transport you to the rustic charm of a French countryside bistro. This recipe is perfect for impressing guests at a dinner party or simply treating your family to a special meal. Let’s dive into how to create this delectable dish step by step.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces
– 6 strips of bacon, chopped
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of red wine
– 2 cups of chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons of tomato paste
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
– 8 ounces of mushrooms, sliced
– 2 carrots, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Start by seasoning the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. In a large Dutch oven or deep skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Brown the chicken pieces on all sides, working in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding the pan. Transfer the browned chicken to a plate and set aside.
2. In the same pot, add the chopped bacon and cook until it becomes crispy. Add the sliced onions and garlic, sautéing until they are soft and fragrant.
3. Sprinkle the flour over the onion mixture and stir well to coat. This will help thicken the sauce later on.
4. Pour in the red wine and chicken broth, stirring constantly to combine. Add the tomato paste, mushrooms, and diced carrots, then return the chicken pieces to the pot.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the Coq Au Vin Vanwell simmer gently for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the chicken is tender and the flavors have melded beautifully.
6. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can remove the chicken pieces and simmer the sauce uncovered for a bit longer until it reaches your desired consistency.
7. Serve the Coq Au Vin Vanwell hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. This dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or over a bed of buttered noodles.
Coq Au Vin Vanwell is a truly special dish that captures the essence of French cuisine with its deep, savory flavors and tender chicken. Whether you’re looking to impress your guests or simply indulge in a delicious meal at home, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy the process of cooking this time-honored classic and savor every bite of this soul-warming dish. Bon appétit!
