Cognac is a versatile spirit that adds a unique flavor to many dishes. The popular French brandy is a delicious ingredient for cooking main course meals, whether you’re preparing meat or seafood. Here are some of the most popular main course dishes you can prepare with cognac.
Steak au Poivre: This classic French dish consists of a pan-seared steak with a creamy cognac sauce. The steak is coated with crushed peppercorns and then cooked in a hot pan until it’s cooked to your liking. The cognac sauce is made by deglazing the pan with cognac and then adding cream and seasonings. The recipe for Steak au Poivre is here.
Coq au Vin: This traditional French dish is a hearty chicken stew that’s flavored with red wine and cognac. The chicken is cooked with bacon, mushrooms, onions, and carrots, and then simmered in a sauce made with red wine, cognac, and chicken stock. The result is a rich and flavorful stew that’s perfect for a cozy dinner. The recipe for Coq au Vin is here.
Lobster Bisque: This creamy soup is a luxurious treat that’s perfect for special occasions. It’s made with a rich broth of lobster, cognac, and cream, and then flavored with herbs and spices. The lobster bisque is typically served with a garnish of lobster meat and croutons. The recipe for Lobster Bisque is here.
Beef Stroganoff: This classic Russian dish is made with strips of tender beef, mushrooms, onions, and sour cream. The dish is flavored with cognac, which adds a delicious depth of flavor to the sauce. Beef stroganoff is typically served over egg noodles or rice. The recipe for Beef Stroganoff is here.
Shrimp Scampi: This classic Italian dish is made with shrimp that are cooked in a garlicky butter and white wine sauce. The addition of cognac adds a touch of elegance to the dish and enhances the flavors of the other ingredients. Shrimp scampi is typically served over pasta or with crusty bread. The recipe for Shrimp Scampi is here.
Chicken Liver Pâté: This creamy and flavorful spread is perfect for entertaining. The chicken livers are cooked with onions, garlic, and cognac, and then pureed until smooth. The pâté is typically served with crackers or toasted bread. The recipe for Chicken Liver Pâté is here.
Steak Diane: This classic dish is made with pan-seared steak that’s cooked in a sauce made with cognac, cream, and Worcestershire sauce. The addition of cognac gives the dish a rich and luxurious flavor that’s perfect for a special occasion. The recipe for Steak Diane is here.
French Onion Soup: A savory soup made with caramelized onions, beef broth, and a splash of cognac, topped with toasted bread and melted Gruyere cheese. The recipe for French Onion Soup is here.
Venison Stew: Venison and cognac stew is a hearty and delicious dish that is perfect for cooler weather. The combination of tender venison, aromatic vegetables, and rich cognac creates a deeply flavorful stew that is sure to impress your guests. The recipe for Venison Stew with cognac is here.
Cognac is a versatile ingredient that can add a unique flavor to many main course dishes. Whether you’re preparing a classic French dish like Coq au Vin or a classic Italian dish like Shrimp Scampi, the addition of cognac can take your cooking to the next level.
So next time you’re in the kitchen, consider adding a splash of cognac to your main course recipe for a delicious and sophisticated twist.
Find all our Cooking With Cognac recipes here.