How to Make Vegan Coq au Vin with Hearty Mushrooms

Simple Summary

This vegan Coq au Vin with mushrooms is a plant-based twist on the classic French dish, offering rich, wine-infused flavors and meaty textures without any animal products.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Difficulty: Intermediate

Ingredients

• 1 lb mixed mushrooms (e.g., shiitake, oyster, cremini), sliced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 cup pearl onions, peeled
• 2 cups red wine (preferably Burgundy)
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 2 bay leaves
• 4 sprigs fresh thyme
• 1 sprig fresh rosemary
• 8 oz vegan bacon, diced
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the mixed mushrooms and cook until browned, about 8-10 minutes. Remove and set aside.

2. In the same pot, heat the remaining olive oil. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.

3. Add the minced garlic and tomato paste. Cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant.

4. Pour in the red wine, vegetable broth, and add the bay leaves, thyme, and rosemary. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.

5. Meanwhile, in a separate pan, cook the vegan bacon until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving the fat in the pan.

6. Add the pearl onions to the pan with the bacon fat and cook until lightly browned, about 5 minutes. Remove and set aside.

7. In the same pan, add the flour to the remaining fat and cook for 1-2 minutes to create a roux.

8. Slowly whisk the roux into the simmering wine mixture in the Dutch oven. Cook for 5 minutes until the sauce thickens.

9. Add the cooked mushrooms, vegan bacon, and pearl onions back into the pot. Simmer for an additional 15-20 minutes until the flavors meld and the sauce reaches your desired consistency.

10. Remove the bay leaves and herb sprigs. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

11. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Chef's Notes

• For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free flour for the roux and ensure your vegan bacon is gluten-free.
• If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, replace the wine with additional vegetable broth and a splash of balsamic vinegar for depth.
• This dish tastes even better the next day, so don't hesitate to make it in advance.
• For added texture, you can include some cubed firm tofu or seitan as a chicken substitute.

Nutritional Info

Per serving: Approximately 350 calories. This dish is rich in protein from the mushrooms and vegan bacon, and provides a good source of fiber, vitamins B and D, and antioxidants. The red wine contributes heart-healthy polyphenols.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this vegan Coq au Vin over mashed potatoes, creamy polenta, or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. Pair with a side of steamed green beans or a crisp salad for a balanced meal. For a true French experience, serve with the same red wine used in cooking. This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner party or a special weekend meal.