Classic Coq au Vin Recipe

 Braised in Tradition

INTRODUCTION: Step into the rich culinary heritage of France with our Classic Coq au Vin Recipe, a beloved dish that embodies the essence of French country cooking. This iconic braised chicken stew, born in the Burgundy region, is a masterclass in tender, fall-off-the-bone chicken, succulent mushrooms, and a velvety, full-bodied red wine sauce, all infused with the subtle nuances of onions, carrots, and bacon. With its comforting, homespun flavors and storied history, Coq au Vin is a true culinary treasure that will leave you enchanted and craving more.

Ingredients:

- 1 1/2 pounds chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on

- 1 large onion, thinly sliced (about 2 cups)

- 2 cloves garlic, minced (about 1 tablespoon)

- 2 carrots, peeled and thinly sliced (about 1 cup)

- 2 celery stalks, thinly sliced (about 1 cup)

- 1 cup red wine (such as Burgundy or Pinot Noir)

- 1 cup chicken broth

- 1 tablespoon tomato paste

- 2 tablespoons butter

- 1 teaspoon dried thyme

- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary

- 1 bay leaf

- Salt and pepper to taste

- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (optional)

- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and flour (if using).

2. Heat butter in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown chicken on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.

3. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery to pot. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 10-12 minutes.

4. Add wine, broth, tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf to pot. Stir to combine.

5. Return chicken to pot and bring to a boil.

6. Cover pot and transfer to oven. Cook at 300°F (150°C) for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.

7. Remove from oven and let cool slightly. Serve hot, garnished with parsley (if desired).

Note: Traditionally, Coq au Vin is cooked with a whole chicken, but using chicken thighs makes the dish more accessible and easier to cook. You can also use boneless, skinless chicken thighs if preferred. Additionally, you can serve with boiled potatoes, noodles, or crusty bread for a heartier meal. Enjoy!

Here is an approximate calorie chart for a serving of Coq au Vin (assuming 4-6 servings total):

Per serving:

- Calories: 550-650

- Protein: 35-40g (chicken, vegetables, and broth)

- Fat: 30-35g

    - Saturated fat: 10-12g

- Carbohydrates: 20-25g

    - Fiber: 5-7g

- Cholesterol: 80-100mg

- Sodium: 400-500mg

- Sugar: 5-7g

Vitamins and Minerals:

- Vitamin A: 20-25% of the Daily Value (DV)

- Vitamin C: 40-50% of the DV

- Calcium: 10-15% of the DV

- Iron: 25-30% of the DV

- Potassium: 30-40% of the DV

Please note that this is an estimate, as exact values depend on specific ingredient brands and measurements. Additionally, this recipe's calorie count may vary based on portion sizes and added ingredients. This chart serves as an approximate guide.

Coq au Vin is a rich and flavorful dish, with a balance of protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates. Enjoy in moderation!

Note: If you're using different types of protein or adding other ingredients, the calorie count may vary. Be sure to adjust the chart accordingly.