Coq au Vin is a classic French dish that combines tender chicken with a rich and flavorful sauce made from red wine, bacon, mushrooms, and onions. This traditional recipe has been loved by many for its comforting taste and simplicity. Today, we will explore the best and easiest Coq au Vin recipe by none other than renowned chef Jamie Oliver.
Jamie Oliver is known for his innovative yet accessible approach to cooking, and his Coq au Vin recipe is no exception. With just a few simple steps, you can recreate this delicious dish in your own kitchen. Let’s dive in!
To start off, gather the following ingredients:
– 4 chicken leg quarters
– 6 slices of bacon, chopped
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 250g button mushrooms, halved
– 750ml red wine
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 2 sprigs of fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
Here is how Jamie Oliver’s Coq au Vin comes together:
1. Season the chicken leg quarters with salt and pepper.
2. In a large, deep pan, heat some olive oil and brown the chicken on all sides. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy. Remove the bacon from the pan and set aside, leaving the bacon fat in the pan.
4. Add the chopped onion to the pan and cook until softened, then add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
5. Add the halved mushrooms to the pan and cook until they start to brown.
6. Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir well to coat.
7. Return the chicken and bacon to the pan, and pour in the red wine.
8. Stir in the tomato paste and add the sprigs of fresh thyme.
9. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, cover, and let it cook for about 1 hour or until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
10. Remove the chicken from the pan and keep warm.
11. Increase the heat and let the sauce reduce and thicken slightly.
12. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
13. Serve the chicken with the sauce, accompanied by creamy mashed potatoes or crusty bread.
Now, let’s move on to the questions and answers section:
1. Can I use white wine instead of red wine?
Yes, you can use white wine if you prefer a lighter flavor. However, red wine gives a richer and more traditional taste to the Coq au Vin.
2. Can I use chicken breast instead of leg quarters?
Yes, you can use chicken breast if you prefer. Just make sure not to overcook it, as chicken breast tends to dry out faster than leg quarters.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! Coq au Vin actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors have time to meld together. Just reheat gently before serving.
4. Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the leftovers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently before serving.
5. Can I substitute fresh thyme with dried thyme?
Yes, you can substitute fresh thyme with dried thyme. Use 1 teaspoon of dried thyme instead of the fresh sprigs.
6. Can I add other vegetables to the dish?
Certainly! Feel free to add carrots, pearl onions, or even potatoes to the Coq au Vin for extra flavor and texture.
7. What is the best wine to use for Coq au Vin?
Traditionally, a dry red wine like Burgundy or Pinot Noir is used for Coq au Vin. However, you can experiment with different types of red wine to find your preferred flavor.
In conclusion, Jamie Oliver’s Coq au Vin recipe is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to enjoy a flavorsome and straightforward French dish. With its tender chicken and rich sauce, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. Don’t be afraid to make it your own by adding your favorite vegetables or experimenting with different wines. Bon appétit!