Coq Au Vin is a classic French dish that is rich in flavor and history. Traditionally made with chicken slowly braised in red wine with bacon, mushrooms and pearl onions, it is a perfect meal for special occasions or cozy dinner nights. While the main dish is undeniably delicious, the right side dishes can elevate the entire meal experience.
Finding the perfect accompaniments to Coq Au Vin can be overwhelming, but the result is worth the effort. In this article, we will explore some of the best sides to make your Coq Au Vin dinner a memorable one. From simple vegetable dishes to decadent mashed potatoes, we’ve got everything covered. So let’s get cooking and make your next meal unforgettable!
Classic Side Dishes to Accompany Coq Au Vin for a Traditional French Feast
Coq au vin is a classic French poultry dish that features chicken cooked in red wine with a variety of vegetables, herbs, and spices. To complete the French dining experience, it’s essential to serve traditional side dishes that complement the rich, indulgent flavors of the coq au vin.
One classic side dish that pairs perfectly with coq au vin is creamy mashed potatoes. The mashed potatoes can be made subtly flavored with garlic or herbs, providing a neutral base to savor the full flavor of the coq au vin. Another excellent option is Gratin Dauphinois, a melt-in-your-mouth potato dish that features thinly sliced potatoes cooked in heavy cream with garlic and nutmeg. Together, the coq au vin and gratin dauphinois create a luxurious feast that evokes images of the French countryside.
Wine Pairings and Other Beverages that Perfectly Complement Coq Au Vin
Coq Au Vin is a hearty French dish that consists of chicken stewed in red wine and served with vegetables. The flavors and aromas in this dish are bold and complex, which means you need to choose your wine pairing carefully. A dry red wine with a good amount of tannins will work best with Coq Au Vin. Pinot Noir, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon are all great options. If you’re looking for a French wine to pair with your Coq Au Vin, choose a Burgundy or Bordeaux. A full-bodied white wine, like Chardonnay, can also work well if you prefer white wine over red.
If you’re not a wine drinker, there are other beverages that can complement Coq Au Vin. A light beer, like a pilsner or lager, can help cleanse your palate between bites. If you prefer something non-alcoholic, try a sparkling water with a wedge of lemon or lime to match the acidity in the dish. If you want to indulge in a decadent dessert after your meal, a glass of brandy or cognac can be a perfect way to end your dinner in style. Whatever you choose, make sure it doesn’t overpower the flavors in the dish and enhances your overall dining experience.
Delicious Bread and Cheese Pairings That Go Well with Coq Au Vin
Bread and cheese are perfect companions for any French cuisine, and Coq Au Vin is no exception. A tasty loaf of fresh bread and a selection of cheeses can take this dish to the next level. The key to selecting the right bread and cheese pairings is to complement the flavors of the dish.
For a traditional French twist, baguette bread is an excellent choice. The crisp, crusty exterior, and soft chewy interior pair perfectly with the rich and aromatic flavors of Coq Au Vin. For cheese selections, try a creamy brie or a smooth goat cheese to balance the robust taste of the chicken and wine. Adding a side of green grapes or dried apricots will enhance the fruitiness of the dish and provide a tangy sweetness that complements both bread and cheese. Overall, these bread and cheese pairings add a French-inspired touch to Coq Au Vin, making it a fancier and full-bodied meal that is sure to impress your guests.
Vegetables and Salads That Add a Burst of Freshness to Coq Au Vin
Vegetables and salads are the perfect accompaniments for Coq Au Vin as they add a burst of freshness to the dish, balancing the rich, savory flavor of the chicken stew. A classic side dish to serve with this French delicacy is roasted root vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and parsnips. Roasting them with olive oil and seasoning brings out their natural sweetness, and pairing them with Coq Au Vin makes for an indulgent, hearty meal.
Alternatively, you can opt for green vegetables like asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or green beans, which add texture and a fresh crunch to the dish. A simple, fresh salad with a light vinaigrette dressing can also work wonders in cutting through the rich flavors of Coq Au Vin. For a French touch, serve a side of crusty bread or a baguette, which is perfect for mopping up the delicious sauce.
Creative Side Dishes and Accompaniments for Coq Au Vin for an Elevated Experience
When it comes to serving Coq Au Vin, your options for side dishes and accompaniments are endless. You can think outside the box and add some creative elements to elevate the dining experience. Some popular creative side dishes for Coq Au Vin include roasted root vegetables, such as parsnips or carrots, as well as sautéed greens like spinach or kale. You can also add a twist to traditional mashed potatoes by mixing them with roasted garlic or truffle oil.
If you are looking to add more textures to your meal, consider serving a side of crusty bread for dipping into the rich sauce. For a light and refreshing contrast, you can serve a salad with fresh greens, sliced apples, and a homemade vinaigrette dressing. And if you want to keep things classic, you can always serve Coq Au Vin with a side of buttery egg noodles or fluffy rice. Whatever you choose, the key is to find flavors that complement the rich and robust taste of the Coq Au Vin.
Desserts That End A Coq Au Vin Meal on a Sweet Note
No meal is complete without a sweet ending, and Coq Au Vin is no exception. French cuisine has some of the best desserts in the world, and they pair perfectly with this classic French dish. Sweet, light, and airy, French desserts are a delicious contrast to the rich, savory flavors of Coq Au Vin.
One of the most popular desserts to serve with Coq Au Vin is the classic Crème Brulee. This indulgent custard dessert is made with cream, egg yolks, vanilla, and sugar. The custard is topped with a layer of caramelized sugar, which is torched to create a crunchy top. Other options include the fruit tart, chocolate mousse, and profiteroles. A dessert to remember is one that compliments its meal, and these French-inspired desserts will make your guests want more.
Quick and Easy Sides for A Simple Weeknight Coq Au Vin Dinner at Home
When you’re short on time but still craving the rich flavors of a classic Coq Au Vin, there are plenty of quick and easy sides you can whip up to complete your dinner. One option is to serve the dish over a bed of fluffy mashed potatoes. The creamy texture of the potatoes pairs perfectly with the savory chicken and red wine sauce.
If you’re looking for something a bit lighter, a side of roasted vegetables is always a good choice. Simply toss some carrots, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast in the oven until tender and caramelized. The sweetness of the vegetables will balance out the richness of the Coq Au Vin, making for a well-rounded and satisfying meal. Whatever side you choose, don’t forget to pour yourself a glass of red wine to complete the French bistro vibe!
The Bottom Line
To sum it up, Coq au Vin is a classic French dish that can be served in various ways to enhance its flavors. It is a perfect dish for dinner parties, special occasions, or even a weekend family dinner. The dish is fairly simple to make and allows for creativity in the preparation and serving.
Whether it’s the classic accompaniments of mashed potatoes and green beans or experimentation with a new wine or spice combination, the possibilities are endless when it comes to serving Coq au Vin. So next time you have some friends or family over for dinner, impress them with this traditional French dish and let your creativity flow in making the perfect accompanying sides.