The Paris Olympics officially kick off today, marking the beginning of a spectacular event that promises to captivate the world. Paris, known as the City of Light, is not only a global center for art, fashion, and culture but also the epicenter of this year’s most anticipated sports event. As athletes from around the globe gather to compete, millions of viewers will tune in to witness this historic occasion. While we may not all be able to experience the charm and excitement of Paris firsthand right now, there are delightful ways to bring a touch of Paris into our homes to celebrate. Like a fabulous French meal.
The Allure of Parisian Cuisine
French cuisine is revered worldwide for its elegance, flavor, and technique. The Paris Olympics provide a perfect opportunity to indulge in the culinary delights of France (but do you really need an excuse?) Whether you're an experienced chef or a kitchen novice, you can bring a bit of Paris into your home by preparing a classic French dish. One timeless recipe that captures the essence of Parisian dining is Coq au Vin.
Pro Tip: Only use wine that you would drink yourself- it's one of the stars of the dish (literally the vin in Coq au Vin), so be sure to respect the ingredient.
Celebrating the Paris Olympics with Coq au Vin: A Classic French Recipe
Coq au Vin, which translates to "rooster in wine," is a traditional French dish that has been enjoyed for centuries. It’s a hearty, flavorful meal that's perfect for any occasion, whether you're hosting an Olympics viewing party or simply enjoying a cozy dinner at home.
Here's a recipe to help you create this classic dish:
Ingredients:
1 whole chicken, cut into 8 pieces
1 bottle of red wine (preferably Burgundy)
2 tablespoons of olive oil
4 slices of bacon, diced
1 large onion, finely chopped
2 carrots, sliced
2 cloves of garlic, minced
2 tablespoons of flour
2 cups of chicken broth
1 bouquet garni (a bundle of thyme, parsley, and bay leaf)
8 ounces of mushrooms, quartered
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken pieces in a large bowl and pour the wine over them. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
Cook the Bacon: In a large Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the bacon and cook until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside.
Brown the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the wine (reserve the wine) and pat dry with paper towels. Season with salt and pepper. In the same Dutch oven, brown the chicken pieces on all sides. Remove the chicken and set aside.
Sauté the Vegetables: Add the onion, carrots, and garlic to the pot. Cook until the onions are soft and translucent.
Thicken the Sauce: Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir well to coat. Cook for a couple of minutes to get rid of the raw flour taste.
Simmer the Chicken: Slowly pour in the reserved wine and chicken broth, stirring constantly. Add the bouquet garni, chicken pieces, and bacon back into the pot. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook on low heat for about 1.5 hours, or until the chicken is tender.
Cook the Mushrooms: In a separate skillet, sauté the mushrooms in a bit of butter until golden brown. Add them to the pot in the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Finish and Serve: Remove the bouquet garni. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Coq au Vin is best enjoyed with a side of crusty French bread and/or creamy mashed potatoes. Pair it with a glass of the same wine used in the cooking for a truly Parisian experience.
Bringing Paris Home
While the athletes compete and the world celebrates, you can bring a slice of Parisian culture into your home through its cuisine. Preparing and enjoying a classic French dish like Coq au Vin is a wonderful way to celebrate the Paris Olympics and feel connected to the vibrant spirit of Paris. So, gather your ingredients, pour a glass of wine, and let the flavors of France transport you to the City of Light as you cheer on your favorite athletes.
Bon appétit and enjoy the games!