There are a handful of quintessential dishes that immediately come to mind when one thinks of French food. Coq au Vin, or chicken with wine, is one of these. Part of the genius of Julia Child is that she was able to translate traditional French dishes into an easy-to-understand format with exceptionally clear directions. Any moderately competent home cook can easily make Coq au Vin in their own kitchen. Let’s find out how!
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COQ AU VIN
JULIA CHILD’S CLASSIC FRENCH RECIPE
Coq au Vin is a delicious dish of browned chicken in a rich, red wine sauce with onions, mushrooms and bacon. There are several steps involved so it’s a bit time-consuming. However, it’s not difficult to make and is perfect for a dinner party because it can be made ahead of time.
I once made a version of this for company and it was divine! Unfortunately I’m allergic to mushrooms so I had to leave them out. Even so, it turned out really well and everyone enjoyed it.
There are several components of this rich and tasty dish:
- The Bacon – Simmered in water first then browned in oil
- The Chicken – Seasoned, browned, cooked slowly and then flamed in Cognac
- Simmering in red wine – Chicken is simmered in red wine, tomato paste, beef stock and seasoning until tender
- The Onions – Small onions are briefly dropped in boiling water, lightly browned in oil and then cooked in water until tender
- The Mushrooms – Lightly browned in hot oil and butter
- The Sauce – Chicken cooking liquid is reduced and made into a sauce with flour and butter
Does that sound complicated? It’s really not difficult although I admit it’s time consuming. But if you really want to wow your guests, this dish is a winner.
Julia Child’s recipe from her book, The French Chef Cookbook, has been excerpted here:
Coq au Vin – Julia Child Foundation for Gastronomy and the Culinary Arts
It’s often easier to learn something new by watching someone else do it first. Julia’s “The French Chef” television series was brilliant for this. She broke recipes down step-by-step in her inimitable way and gave viewers the confidence to try them in their own kitchens.
Let’s watch Julia make this delicious dish:
So, what do you think? Ready to tackle this classic French dish?
The French Chef Cookbook
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French Inspired Recipes by Julia Child
I have tried a few of her recipes – my favorite being Boeuf Bourguingon. I’ve never attempted the Coq au Vin but I am sure it’s absolutely delicious. I shall have to attempt it soon.
They are essentially the same recipe. One is beef and the other chicken.