Merveilleux Moutarde

Background and Description of Merveilleux Moutarde

Merveilleux Moutarde is a luxurious dish that hails from classic French cuisine. The term 'Merveilleux' translates to 'marvelous' in English, symbolizing the indulgent flavors and textures that come together in this recipe. Traditionally, the dish is known for its rich use of Dijon mustard, cream, and tender meat. In 19th century France, mustard was not only savored for its distinct tangy taste but also believed to have medicinal properties. Merveilleux Moutarde celebrates this staple by marrying it with rustic yet refined elements to create a comforting gourmet experience.

Ingredients

• Dijon mustard - 4 tablespoons
• Chicken breasts - 4, boneless and skinless
• Heavy cream - 1 cup
• Shallots - 2, finely chopped
• White wine - 1/2 cup
• Olive oil - 2 tablespoons
• Butter - 2 tablespoons
• Thyme - 1 teaspoon (fresh leaves preferred)
• Salt - to taste
• Black pepper - to taste

Preparation

Before diving into the actual cooking, preparation is key to ensuring the Merveilleux Moutarde turns out flawless.

Preparing the Chicken Breasts

1. Begin by rinsing the chicken breasts gently under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This step ensures the removal of excess moisture.
2. Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap and use a meat mallet to pound them to an even thickness, approximately 1/2 inch thick. This helps in even cooking.
3. Season both sides liberally with salt and black pepper.

Preparing the Shallot and Herb Mixture

1. Finely chop the shallots. Shallots bring a mild onion flavor with a hint of garlic, perfect for this dish.
2. Strip the thyme leaves off their stems and discard the stems.

The Cooking Process

After preparation, it's time to proceed to the cooking phase. Ensure you set your cooking timer focused for each task to avoid overheating any components.

Cooking the Chicken

1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter. Swirl them together until the butter is fully melted.
2. Add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet. Sear them for approximately 3-4 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Transfer them to a plate and cover with foil to keep warm.

Creating the Sauce

1. With the skillet still on medium heat, add the remaining tablespoon of butter and the shallots. Sauté for about 2 minutes until the shallots are tender and fragrant.
2. Pour in the white wine. Let it simmer for 3-4 minutes, scraping up brown bits from the bottom of the skillet, until the wine has reduced by half.
3. Stir in the remaining tablespoon of olive oil, the Dijon mustard, and heavy cream. Whisk the mixture until well-combined and smooth. Allow the sauce to simmer for an additional 5 minutes, or until it thickens to reach desired consistency. Season with a pinch more salt and black pepper, leaving room for tasting and adjustment later.

Final Assembly

1. Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Sprinkle with the thyme, ensuring an even distribution of leaves for aroma and flavor.
2. Allow to heat through for another 5 minutes, ensuring the chicken is heated and coated well with the sauce. Turn off the heat.

How to Enjoy Merveilleux Moutarde

Merveilleux Moutarde is best savored with a side of seasonal vegetables or a fresh garden salad to cut through the richness of the creamy mustard sauce. Serve the dish with a crusty baguette to soak up the luscious sauce. For an authentic French experience, pair it with a crisp, chilled dry white wine like Chablis or Sauvignon Blanc, enhancing the tender meat's flavor profile.

Set an elegant table, dim the lights, and indulge in this exquisite Merveilleux Moutarde, appreciating the harmony of flavors that make it a timeless classic.