Epicurious Season 1 Episode 12 France: Coq Au Vin - Cook chicken and vegetables

France is known for its rich and diverse culinary traditions, and in this episode of Epicurious, the focus is on one of the country's classic dishes: Coq Au Vin. The dish, which translates to "rooster with wine," is a hearty and flavorful mix of chicken, vegetables, bacon, and red wine.

To start, the host introduces the key ingredients for the dish: chicken thighs, button mushrooms, pearl onions, bacon, garlic, carrots, thyme, flour, and red wine. She explains that the dish is typically made with red wine, but white wine can also be used for a lighter flavor. The host also suggests using a cast iron Dutch oven for cooking the dish, but notes that any heavy-bottomed pan will work.

The first step in preparing Coq Au Vin is to brown the chicken thighs in the pan, which helps develop a golden crust and adds flavor to the dish. Once the chicken is browned on both sides, it is set aside while the vegetables are cooked in the same pan. The bacon is also fried until crispy and added to the vegetable mixture.

Next, the host adds the flour to the pan to create a roux, which will help thicken the sauce. The red wine is then added to the pan, along with chicken broth, garlic, and thyme. The chicken and vegetables are then added back to the pan and everything is simmered together for about an hour, allowing the flavors to meld and develop.

Throughout the episode, the host offers tips and tricks for preparing Coq Au Vin, including suggestions for adjusting the seasoning and cooking times based on personal preference. She also explains the history and cultural significance of the dish, highlighting how it evolved from a humble farm meal to a sophisticated classic.

As the dish simmers, the host prepares a simple side dish of roasted carrots, which complement the flavors of the Coq Au Vin. Finally, the dish is served and tasted, with the host and her guests savoring the rich, complex flavors of the dish.

Overall, this episode of Epicurious provides a detailed and engaging look at preparing a classic French dish. Viewers will learn about the ingredients and techniques involved in making Coq Au Vin, as well as the cultural context and history of the dish. With its focus on flavorful, rustic cooking, this episode is sure to inspire viewers to cook up their own version of this classic French dish.