Coq au Vin as comfort food — exactly what I needed

Some dishes exist to comfort and Coq au Vin is absolutely in that category. The deeply layered quality works on something almost primal — you feel the warmth of it immediately. Dijon mustard does work that no substitute can replicate.

French cuisine is a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. There's something about the a brasserie lunch context that reinforces the comfort effect. baguette alongside is the traditional way and it makes complete sense. I come back to this dish when I need something dependable and restorative.