Coq au Vin

Coq au Vin is a classic French dish that beautifully marries tender chicken with a rich, flavorful red wine sauce. This traditional recipe features aromatic herbs, mushrooms, and pearl onions, creating a comforting and hearty main course. Perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, it embodies the essence of French cuisine while being gluten-free and dairy-free.

Ingredients:

• 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces
• 2 cups red wine (preferably Burgundy)
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 4 ounces bacon, diced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cups pearl onions, peeled
• 2 cups mushrooms, quartered
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 bouquet garni (thyme, bay leaf, and parsley)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. In a large Dutch oven, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside, leaving the fat in the pot.
2. Add the olive oil to the pot. Brown the chicken pieces on all sides, then remove and set aside.
3. In the same pot, add the pearl onions and mushrooms. Sauté until they are lightly browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
5. Stir in the tomato paste, then return the chicken and bacon to the pot.
6. Pour in the red wine and chicken broth, ensuring the chicken is submerged. Add the bouquet garni, and season with salt and pepper.
7. Bring to a simmer, then cover and reduce the heat to low. Cook for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the chicken is tender and the flavors meld.
8. Remove the bouquet garni and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.