To make Coq au Vin, you will need the following ingredients:
- 4 to 6 chicken thighs or drumsticks
- 6 slices of bacon, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 cup of mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cups of red wine
- 2 cups of chicken stock
- 1 bouquet garni (a bundle of herbs such as thyme, bay leaves, and parsley)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons of flour (optional)
- Olive oil or butter
To begin, you will need to brown the chicken in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Once browned, remove the chicken from the pot and set aside. In the same pot, add the bacon and cook until crispy. Then, add the onion, garlic, and mushrooms and cook until softened.
Next, pour in the red wine and chicken stock and bring the mixture to a boil. Add the bouquet garni, salt, and pepper. If you want the sauce to be thicker, add 2 tablespoons of flour mixed with a bit of cold water. Return the chicken to the pot, reduce the heat to low, and simmer the stew for 45 minutes to an hour or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
When the Coq au Vin is ready, remove the bouquet garni from the pot and discard it. Serve the stew over mashed potatoes or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Coq au Vin is a classic French dish that is perfect for a cozy and comforting meal. With its rich flavors and tender chicken, it is sure to be a hit at your next dinner party. Bon Appétit!