What to Serve with Coq Au Bin – 10 Amazing Dishes to Try
I remember the first time I ever made coq au vin. I was so excited to try this classic French dish, and I wanted to make sure it would be perfect. I read many recipes, watched a few tutorials online, and finally decided to try it.
However, the tricky part was getting a perfect side dish to accompany the meal. There are tens of side dishes to choose from, but I have compiled a list of 10 side dishes that will complement coq au vin perfectly!
Side Dishes For Coq Au Vin:
- Honey Glazed Carrots
- Caramelized Onions
- Butternut & Apple Casserole
- Basmati Rice
- Pasta
- Baked Potatoes
- Green Salad
- Crusty French Bread
- Roasted Cauliflower
- Egg Noodles
Honey Glazed Carrots
These carrots are the perfect sweet and savory side dish. They are easy to make and only require a few ingredients: carrots, honey, butter, salt, and pepper.
To make them, simply melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the carrots and cook until they are tender about 15 minutes.
Then add the honey and season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for an additional minute, stirring well to coat the carrots. These carrots can be served as is or garnished with fresh parsley or thyme.
This dish is a great source of vitamins and fiber, and the sweetness of the honey glazed carrots makes a perfect complement to the rich flavors of coq au vin.
Caramelized Onions
Caramelized onions are a classic ingredient in French cuisine, and their sweet, rich flavor pairs perfectly with the savory chicken dish.
When choosing caramelized onions as a side dish for coq au vin, be sure to select ones that are evenly caramelized and not burnt. Burnt onions will add bitterness to the dish which is not desirable.
For this dish, you will need onions, olive oil, sugar, and salt. Cut the onions into thin slices and add cook in olive oil. Cook over medium-low heat for about 15 minutes stirring occasionally.
Add the sugar and continue cooking until the onions are evenly caramelized about 30 minutes total. season with salt and serve.
Butternut & Apple Casserole
Butternut and apple casserole have a sweet, nutty flavor that pairs well with savory dishes like coq au vin. In addition, this casserole is easy to make and can be made ahead of time which makes it perfect for entertaining.
To make the casserole, you will need apples, butternut squash, butter, brown sugar, salt, and cinnamon. Peel and chop the apples and butternut squash into small cubes.
Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the apples and cook for about five minutes until they begin to soften. Then add the butternut squash and cook for an additional five minutes.
Stir in the brown sugar, salt, and cinnamon. Pour the mixture into a casserole dish and bake for 25 minutes.
Basmati Rice
Basmati rice is a long-grain, aromatic rice that originates from India and Pakistan. It is often used in Indian and Pakistani cuisine, as well as in other Asian dishes.
Basmati rice has a nutty flavor and a light, fluffy texture. It is also a good source of nutrition, with high levels of manganese, magnesium, and phosphorus.
This rice pairs well with coq au vin, as the rich flavors of the dish, complement the nuttiness of the rice. Additionally, it can absorb the flavors of the coq au vin without overpowering them.
Pasta
This is a great accompaniment to coq au vin as it can be used to absorb the rich, flavorful sauce. Additionally, pasta is a good source of carbohydrates which can help to round out the meal.
When choosing a pasta to serve with coq au vin choose a light pasta such as angel hair or spaghetti.
Pasta is a versatile side dish that can be made to suit any taste. For those who like their pasta with a bit of spice, consider adding some red pepper flakes to the dish. If you want a more traditional flavor, simply add some butter and Parmesan cheese.
Baked Potatoes
Baked potatoes are a classic side dish that can be made to suit any taste. They are a good source of carbohydrates and fiber and can be topped with a variety of toppings to add flavor.
When making baked potatoes to serve with coq au vin, consider adding some sour cream, chives, and bacon bits to the dish. This will give the potatoes a creamy, savory flavor that pairs well with the rich flavors of coq au vin.
When choosing potatoes to serve with coq au vin, opt for a starchy potato such as russet or Yukon gold. These types of potatoes have a high starch content which makes them perfect for baking.
Green Salad
A green salad is a healthy and refreshing side dish that can be made to suit any taste. It is a good source of vitamins and minerals, as well as fiber.
When making a green salad to serve with coq au vin, consider adding some fresh fruits and vegetables such as apples, grapes, and carrots. This will add sweetness and color to the dish.
If you want a more savory flavor, consider adding some crumbled blue cheese or sliced almonds. In addition, a green salad can be dressed with a variety of different dressings to suit any taste.
Crusty French Bread
Crusty French bread is a great side dish for coq au vin. The crusty bread helps to soak up the flavorful sauce, and the chewy texture pairs well with the tender chicken.
Additionally, the crusty bread provides a welcome contrast to the rich ingredients in coq au vin. Nutrition-wise, crusty French bread is a good source of complex carbohydrates and fiber.
When choosing a crusty French bread to serve with coq au vin, look for a loaf that is fresh and has a crispy crust. Additionally, the bread should be dense and chewy to stand up to the rich flavors of coq au vin.
Roasted Cauliflower
This is a healthy side dish choice, as roasted cauliflower is a good source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Additionally, the roasting process brings out the natural sweetness of cauliflower.
When making roasted cauliflower to serve with coq au vin, consider flavoring it with some garlic, Parmesan cheese, and red pepper flakes. This will give the dish a savory, cheesy flavor that pairs well with the rich flavors of coq au vin.
Additionally, the cauliflower should be firm to the touch and free of blemishes.
Egg Noodles
Egg noodles are a classic side dish for coq au vin. They are a good source of carbohydrates and can help to absorb the rich, flavorful sauce.
To make this dish, simply cook the egg noodles according to the package directions. Once they are cooked, add them to a serving bowl and top with coq au vin.
If you want a more flavorful dish, consider adding some sauteed mushrooms or onions to the noodles. In addition, Parmesan cheese can be added for a cheesy flavor.
FAQ
Do you leave the skin-on chicken for coq au vin?
It is up to you whether or not to leave the skin on the chicken for coq au vin. If you do choose to leave the skin on, it will help to keep the chicken moist and add flavor to the dish.
What should I drink with coq au vin?
There are a variety of drinks that go well with coq au vin. Red wine is a classic choice, as it pairs well with the rich flavors of the dish.
Conclusion
Coq au vin is a rich and flavorful dish that can be served with a variety of side dishes. Try these side dishes and let me know how you get on.