Cooking wine

Cooking wine

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A bottle of cooking wine
Alternative names
Type	Wine
Course
Place of origin
Region or state
Associated national cuisine
Created by
Invented
Cooking time	minutes to minutes
Serving temperature
Main ingredients
Ingredients generally used
Variations
Food energy	kcal
Nutritional value	Protein: g, Fat: g, Carbohydrate: g
Glycemic index
Similar dishes
Other information
Website	[ Official website]

Cooking wine is a type of wine specifically formulated for use in cooking. It is distinct from table wine in that it is not intended for drinking. Cooking wine is typically used to enhance the flavor of food dishes.

Characteristics

Cooking wine is often made from grapes and may include added salt and preservatives to extend its shelf life. The addition of salt makes it unsuitable for drinking but helps to preserve the wine for longer periods, which is beneficial for cooking purposes.

Types of Cooking Wine

There are several types of cooking wine, each with unique characteristics that make them suitable for different types of dishes:

• Red Cooking Wine: Often used in stews, sauces, and marinades. It adds a rich flavor and color to dishes.
• White Cooking Wine: Commonly used in poultry, seafood, and pasta dishes. It provides a lighter flavor compared to red cooking wine.
• Sherry Cooking Wine: Known for its nutty flavor, it is often used in soups and sauces.
• Marsala Cooking Wine: A sweet wine used in desserts and Italian cuisine.

Uses in Cooking

Cooking wine is used to add depth and complexity to dishes. It can be used in:

• Deglazing: Adding wine to a hot pan to dissolve the browned bits of food stuck to the bottom, creating a flavorful base for sauces.
• Marinating: Wine is used in marinades to tenderize and flavor meats.
• Braising: Cooking wine is used in braising liquids to add flavor to slow-cooked dishes.

Health Considerations

While cooking wine is not intended for drinking, it is important to consider its sodium content, especially for individuals on a low-sodium diet. The added salt in cooking wine can contribute to the overall sodium intake of a dish.

Alternatives

For those who prefer not to use cooking wine, there are several alternatives:

• Vinegar: Such as balsamic vinegar or apple cider vinegar, can be used to add acidity and flavor.
• Grape juice: Can be used as a non-alcoholic substitute, though it will add sweetness.
• Broth: Chicken broth or vegetable broth can be used to add flavor without alcohol.

See Also

• Wine in cooking
• Alcohol in food
• Wine reduction

External Links

• Cooking wine on WikiMD