Coq au vin, a classic French dish that originated in the Burgundy region, is a hearty stew made with chicken cooked in red wine, mushrooms, onions, and bacon. The name “coq au vin” literally translates to “chicken in wine,” which is a fitting description of this rich and flavorful dish. Traditionally, coq au vin is cooked on the stovetop or in the oven, but with the help of a slow cooker, you can make this delicious stew with minimal effort and time.
The Origins of Coq au Vin
Coq au vin has a long history that dates back to the Middle Ages. The dish was originally made with tough, old roosters that were cooked in red wine to make them tender and flavorful. The acidity in the wine helped to break down the connective tissues in the meat, making it tender and easy to chew. Over time, the recipe for coq au vin evolved, and chicken became the preferred protein. Today, coq au vin is a beloved dish around the world, and its rich flavors and tender meat have made it a staple of French cuisine.
The Benefits of Making Coq au Vin in a Slow Cooker
Making coq au vin in a slow cooker is a game-changer for busy home cooks. With a slow cooker, you can cook the stew all day while you’re at work or running errands, and come home to a delicious, ready-to-eat meal. The slow cooker also helps to tenderize the chicken and infuse the flavors of the dish, making it even more delicious than traditional stovetop or oven methods.
Key Ingredients for Slow Cooker Coq au Vin
To make slow cooker coq au vin, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1/4 cup bacon, diced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake)
- 1 cup red wine (Burgundy or Pinot Noir work well)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced (optional)
- 2 potatoes, peeled and cubed (optional)
Preparing the Ingredients
Before cooking the coq au vin, you’ll need to prepare the ingredients. Start by cooking the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until it’s crispy. Remove the bacon from the skillet and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate. Leave the grease in the skillet and add the sliced onion. Cook the onion until it’s softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Cooking the Chicken
While the onion and garlic are cooking, season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until it’s browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside with the bacon.
Assembling the Slow Cooker
To assemble the slow cooker, start by adding the cooked bacon, onion, and garlic to the bottom of the slow cooker. Add the browned chicken on top of the bacon mixture, followed by the mixed mushrooms, red wine, chicken broth, tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf. Season the stew with salt and pepper to taste.
Adding Optional Ingredients
If you’re using carrots and potatoes, add them to the slow cooker on top of the chicken. These ingredients will add natural sweetness and texture to the stew.
Cooking the Coq au Vin
Cook the coq au vin on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours. When the stew is cooked, the chicken should be tender and falling apart, and the sauce should be rich and flavorful.
Serving and Enjoying Slow Cooker Coq au Vin
To serve the coq au vin, remove the bay leaf and season the stew with salt and pepper to taste. Serve the stew hot, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme. You can serve the coq au vin with crusty bread, egg noodles, or boiled potatoes.
Wine Pairing Suggestions
Coq au vin is traditionally paired with red wine, and for good reason. The tannins in the wine help to balance the richness of the stew, while the acidity cuts through the fattiness of the bacon and chicken. Here are a few wine pairing suggestions for slow cooker coq au vin:
- Burgundy: A classic pairing for coq au vin, Burgundy is a light-bodied red wine with flavors of cherry and earth.
- Pinot Noir: A light-bodied red wine with flavors of cherry and spice, Pinot Noir is a great pairing for coq au vin.
- Côtes du Rhône: A full-bodied red wine with flavors of dark fruit and spice, Côtes du Rhône is a great pairing for coq au vin.
Conclusion
Slow cooker coq au vin is a delicious and easy-to-make stew that’s perfect for busy home cooks. With its rich flavors and tender meat, this dish is sure to become a staple in your household. Whether you’re a fan of French cuisine or just looking for a new slow cooker recipe, slow cooker coq au vin is a must-try.
Final Tips and Variations
Here are a few final tips and variations to keep in mind when making slow cooker coq au vin:
- Use a good-quality red wine: The wine is a key ingredient in coq au vin, so be sure to use a good-quality red wine.
- Don’t overcook the chicken: The chicken should be tender and falling apart, but not overcooked.
- Add other ingredients: Feel free to add other ingredients to the stew, such as diced bell peppers or sliced zucchini.
- Serve with crusty bread: Crusty bread is a classic pairing for coq au vin, and it’s perfect for sopping up the rich sauce.
By following these tips and variations, you can make a delicious and authentic slow cooker coq au vin that’s sure to impress your family and friends.
What is Coq au Vin and where does it originate from?
Coq au Vin is a classic French dish that originated in the Burgundy region of France. The name ‘Coq au Vin’ literally translates to ‘chicken in wine,’ which is the primary ingredient in this hearty stew. The dish has been a staple of French cuisine for centuries and is often served in restaurants and homes throughout the country.
Traditionally, Coq au Vin was made with tougher, older chickens that were slow-cooked in red wine to make them tender and flavorful. The slow-cooking process allowed the chicken to absorb all the flavors of the wine, mushrooms, onions, and bacon, resulting in a rich and satisfying stew. Over time, the recipe has evolved, and now it’s commonly made with chicken thighs or legs, which are easier to find and just as delicious.
What are the main ingredients in Slow Cooker Coq au Vin?
The main ingredients in Slow Cooker Coq au Vin include chicken thighs or legs, red wine, mushrooms, onions, bacon, and a variety of spices and herbs. The chicken is typically browned before being added to the slow cooker, where it’s cooked in the rich and flavorful sauce made with red wine, beef broth, and tomato paste. The mushrooms and onions are sautéed in butter until they’re soft and fragrant, then added to the slow cooker along with the bacon and spices.
Other ingredients that may be included in Slow Cooker Coq au Vin are garlic, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves, which add depth and complexity to the dish. Some recipes may also call for pearl onions, carrots, and celery, which add a pop of color and extra flavor to the stew. The beauty of Slow Cooker Coq au Vin is that it’s a versatile recipe that can be adapted to suit your tastes and preferences.
How do I prepare the chicken for Slow Cooker Coq au Vin?
To prepare the chicken for Slow Cooker Coq au Vin, start by seasoning the chicken thighs or legs with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs and spices. Then, heat some oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and brown the chicken on all sides until it’s golden brown and crispy. This step is important because it adds texture and flavor to the chicken, which is then cooked in the slow cooker.
Once the chicken is browned, remove it from the skillet and set it aside. Leave the drippings in the skillet, as they’ll be used to cook the mushrooms and onions. Then, add the chicken to the slow cooker, where it’ll be cooked in the rich and flavorful sauce. Make sure to cook the chicken until it’s tender and falls apart easily, which should take around 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high.
Can I make Slow Cooker Coq au Vin ahead of time?
Yes, you can make Slow Cooker Coq au Vin ahead of time, which is one of the benefits of using a slow cooker. Simply brown the chicken and cook the mushrooms and onions, then add all the ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. You can also prepare the ingredients the night before and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook.
If you want to make the dish even further ahead of time, you can cook the chicken and sauce, then refrigerate or freeze it until you’re ready to serve. Simply reheat the stew in the slow cooker or on the stovetop, and serve hot. This is a great option if you’re planning a dinner party or special occasion, as it allows you to prepare the main course ahead of time and focus on other things.
What type of wine should I use in Slow Cooker Coq au Vin?
The type of wine to use in Slow Cooker Coq au Vin is a matter of personal preference, but a red wine with moderate acidity and tannins works best. Some good options include Pinot Noir, Merlot, and Burgundy, which are all classic choices for Coq au Vin. Avoid using a wine that’s too sweet or too expensive, as the flavors will cook off during the long cooking time.
When choosing a wine for Slow Cooker Coq au Vin, consider the flavor profile you want to achieve. If you prefer a lighter, more delicate flavor, use a Pinot Noir or Beaujolais. If you prefer a bolder, more full-bodied flavor, use a Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon. Remember, the wine will cook off during the long cooking time, so don’t worry too much about the quality or price.
Can I serve Slow Cooker Coq au Vin with anything else?
Yes, Slow Cooker Coq au Vin can be served with a variety of sides to complement its rich and flavorful sauce. Some classic options include boiled potatoes, egg noodles, and crusty bread, which are all traditional pairings for Coq au Vin. You can also serve the stew with some sautéed vegetables, such as carrots, green beans, or peas, which add a pop of color and extra flavor.
Other options for serving Slow Cooker Coq au Vin include serving it over rice, polenta, or even mashed sweet potatoes. The key is to choose a side that will soak up the flavorful sauce, so consider something starchy or crunchy. You can also serve the stew with a simple green salad or some roasted vegetables for a lighter option.
Is Slow Cooker Coq au Vin a difficult dish to make?
No, Slow Cooker Coq au Vin is not a difficult dish to make, especially when using a slow cooker. The beauty of this recipe is that it’s easy to prepare and requires minimal effort, as the slow cooker does all the work. Simply brown the chicken, cook the mushrooms and onions, and add all the ingredients to the slow cooker. Then, let the slow cooker do its magic, and come home to a delicious, hearty stew.
One of the benefits of using a slow cooker is that it’s forgiving, so even if you’re not the most experienced cook, you can still achieve great results. The slow cooker ensures that the chicken is tender, the sauce is rich and flavorful, and the vegetables are cooked to perfection. With a little planning and preparation, you can create a delicious and authentic French stew that’s sure to impress your family and friends.