Rick Stein’s coq au Riesling

Explore the flavors of Alsace with Rick Stein's coq au Riesling, a comforting dish that offers an alternative to the traditional coq au vin. Originating from Rick Stein's BBC2 series, "Secret France," this recipe showcases the chef's preference for Riesling's acidity and cream-enhanced sauce over the red wine variants​​.

Rick Stein’s Coq au Riesling Ingredients

For a serving size of 4 to 6, you will need:

• Vegetable oil (2 tbsp)
• Unsalted butter (70g)
• Whole, peeled shallots (12)
• Finely chopped garlic cloves (3)
• Smoked bacon lardons (160g)
• Halved chestnut mushrooms (250g), if large
• A free-range chicken, jointed into 8 pieces (approx. 1.7kg)
• Plain flour (1 tbsp)
• Medium-dry Riesling (500ml)
• Chicken stock (350ml)
• A bay leaf and 2 thyme sprigs
• Single cream (100ml) mixed with 1 egg yolk
• Chopped flatleaf parsley, for garnishing
• Seasonings: Salt and black pepper

Preparation Instructions

1. Begin by heating the oil and butter in a casserole dish to cook the shallots, garlic, and bacon until the shallots color, then add mushrooms.
2. Dust chicken with flour and brown it before adding Riesling, stock, herbs, and the cooked vegetables. Simmer uncovered for 20 minutes.
3. Strain the cooking liquid, then reduce it slightly. Combine some of this liquid with cream and egg yolk to thicken the sauce without boiling.
4. Return all ingredients to the pan, warming through and seasoning to taste before garnishing with parsley and serving alongside pommes purée​​.

Storage and Reheating

The creamy Riesling sauce from this dish can be frozen for future use. When reheating, ensure to do so gently and stir regularly to prevent the sauce from splitting​​.

Nutritional Information

This dish, rich in proteins and fats due to its chicken, cream, and butter components, provides a hearty meal. For specific nutritional details, consider the main ingredients' calorie and fat content, adjusting portion sizes if necessary.

FAQ about the Coq au Riesling

• Can I substitute another type of wine? Yes, though Riesling is preferred for its acidity and flavor, other medium-dry white wines can also work.
• What are the best sides to serve with this dish? Pommes purée or simple boiled potatoes complement the creamy sauce well.
• How can I ensure my sauce doesn’t split when reheating? Reheat the sauce gently and stir constantly to prevent it from splitting​​.

Rick Stein’s coq au Riesling, with its blend of creamy sauce and tender chicken, brings a piece of French culinary tradition into your home, offering a delightful meal that is as satisfying to prepare as it is to eat.

Original recipe by Rick Stein from "Secret France," BBC Books, 2019.

Enjoy the rich flavors and comforting warmth of this classic dish!