Coq Au Vin With Shiitake Mushrooms

In a heavy kettle, heat the oil over moderately-high heat until it is hot but not smoking and in it saute the chicken pieces, seasoned with salt and pepper, in batches, turning them once, for 8 to 10 minutes, or until they are browned. Transfer the chicken pieces as they are browned to a plate and keep them warm, covered.

Place the shallot, onions, carrots, pearl onions, bay leaf, and thyme in a crockpot. Place the browned chicken on top of the vegetables. Combine the Cognac, white wine and 1 3/4 cup of chicken broth and add to the cooker. Cover and cook on low for 5 hours or until chicken is tender.

Turn control to high and add the mushrooms. Dissolve the cornstarch in the remaining 1/4 cup chicken stock. Stir into the mixture. Cover and cook for 20 minutes more, or until sauce is thickened, stirring once. Transfer the chicken to a plate, and keep warm. Discard the bay leaf, and season the sauce with freshly-ground nutmeg and salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm.

This recipe yields 4 to 5 servings.