Cooking with wine has been a long-standing tradition in the culinary world. It is used to enhance flavors, tenderize meats, and create complex sauces. However, not all wines are created equal in the kitchen. You may have found yourself wandering the aisles of your local grocery store trying to find the right wine for your recipe. This common question of “what aisle are cooking wines in?” has left many home cooks scratching their heads.
In this article, we will provide you with information on the proper use of cooking wine, as well as where to locate it in the grocery store. We will also discuss the difference between cooking wine and regular wine, and why it matters. By the end of this article, you will have a clear understanding of how to incorporate cooking wine into your dishes, without spending hours wandering the aisles.
What are cooking wines and why should you use them?
Cooking wine refers to a type of wine that is specifically used for preparing savory dishes. Unlike regular drinking wines, cooking wines are fortified with salt, which makes them unsuitable for drinking purposes. Cooking wines come in a range of styles including red, white, and sherry, and are often cheaper than drinking wines.
Cooking wines are added to dishes for a variety of reasons. Firstly, they are used to add flavor and complexity to a dish, especially in recipes that call for long cooking times. Additionally, cooking wines are used to deglaze pans, which involves using wine to loosen the tasty browned bits stuck to the bottom of a pan. Finally, cooking wines can also be used to tenderize tough cuts of meat, and to add acidity to a dish. Overall, cooking wines are a versatile and valuable product to have in your pantry.
A guide to navigating the wine aisle: searching for cooking wines
Cooking wines are an essential ingredient in any kitchen as they add an extra dimension of flavor to any dish. However, finding them in a grocery store can often be a difficult task. Most grocery stores stock cooking wines in their wine section, typically located near the spirits and beer aisles.
It is important to note that cooking wines are different from drinking wines and typically contain salt and other seasonings, making them unsuitable for drinking. When searching for cooking wines, look for those labeled as “cooking wine” or “cooking sherry.” They are available in both red and white varieties and are typically budget-friendly options. Some stores even carry specialty cooking wines, such as Marsala or Madeira, which can add unique and complex flavors to your dishes.
Understanding the different types of cooking wines available
Cooking wine is a versatile ingredient that can add flavour, depth, and aroma to various dishes. However, not all cooking wines are created equal, and it’s important to understand the different types available. The most common types of cooking wines are dry and sweet, each with its own unique flavour and purpose in the kitchen.
Dry cooking wines, such as white and red wines, are perfect for adding a subtle depth of flavour to savoury dishes like meat, seafood, and sauces. They have a low sugar content and high acidity, making them ideal for deglazing pans and creating rich reductions. On the other hand, sweet cooking wines like sherry and marsala are great for adding a sweet, nutty flavour to desserts and sauces. They tend to have a higher sugar content and lower acidity, making them unsuitable for deglazing but perfect for creating complex flavours in dishes. Understanding the different types of cooking wines available can help home cooks choose the perfect wine for their recipes and create delicious meals every time.
What to look for when purchasing a cooking wine
When purchasing cooking wine, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure that you’re choosing the best option for your dish. First, consider the alcohol content of the wine. Cooking wines are typically lower in alcohol than drinking wines, so look for options that are around 10-12% ABV. This will ensure that the wine won’t overpower the flavors of your dish.
Next, look for wines that are labeled as “dry” or “semi-dry.” Sweet wines can add an unwanted sweetness to your dish, so it’s best to avoid them. Additionally, opt for wines that have a subtle flavor profile, as bold or fruity wines may not work well in certain dishes. Finally, make sure to choose a wine that you would be willing to drink on its own. As the wine will be a prominent flavor in your dish, it’s important to choose a quality option that you enjoy.
How to substitute cooking wine with other ingredients
Sometimes, cooking wine is not always available in the grocery store or you might be looking for a non-alcoholic substitute. In such cases, you can opt for a few easy substitutions. Chicken or vegetable broth can be a great substitute for white wine and can enhance the flavor of your dish. If you are cooking beef, then beef broth can also produce fantastic results. Using apple juice or apple cider vinegar can be an excellent substitution for red wine in marinated dishes or sauces.
Another substitute can be grape juice or white grape juice concentrate with a tablespoon of vinegar. You can use grape juice concentrate in equal amounts to the recipe that requires cooking wine. However, remember that these substitutions might change the taste and texture of your dish, so always be sure to taste the recipe before serving.
Cooking wine recipes to try at home
Cooking wine is an essential ingredient used in food preparation, and its versatility makes it an ideal choice for creating a variety of recipes. Here are some fantastic cooking wine recipes to try at home.
One of the most popular dishes is the Coq Au Vin, a French classic made with chicken and red wine. This dish is easy to make and is perfect for a family dinner. Another great recipe is the beef stew, which requires red wine for that rich and distinct flavor. Red wine is also an excellent addition to tomato-based sauces like spaghetti Bolognese or lasagna. White wine, on the other hand, adds a refreshing kick to seafood dishes like scallops, shrimp, and clams. You can also use white wine to make creamy and delicious risottos or sautéed vegetables, such as mushrooms and asparagus. With these cooking wine recipes, you can take your home cooking to the next level and impress your family and friends with restaurant-quality dishes.
Storing and using leftover cooking wine.
Storing and using leftover cooking wine is important to ensure that you get the most out of your purchase and prevent wastage. The first thing to do when storing leftover cooking wine is to cork the bottle and place it in the refrigerator. Even though cooking wine is fortified with salt, it still has a short shelf life once opened. Refrigerating the wine can prevent spoilage and ensure that it remains fresh for the next use.
When it comes to using leftover cooking wine, there are endless possibilities. One creative way to use it is to freeze it in an ice cube tray, and use it in future recipes that call for small amounts of wine. Another option is to add it to soups, stews, and other slow-cooked meals to add a depth of flavor. You can also use leftover cooking wine in marinades, salad dressings, and even desserts. With a little creativity, you can turn your cooking wine leftovers into delicious new creations.
Final Thoughts
Cooking wine can be found in the condiment, cooking, or baking aisle of the grocery store. It is an important ingredient for many recipes as it adds richness and depth to the dishes. However, it is important to note that cooking wine should not be consumed as a beverage due to its high sodium content.
When looking for cooking wine in the store, it is important to read the labels carefully and choose the one that best suits your recipe. Price varies between brands, so it is also important to look for deals and sales. By knowing where to find cooking wine and how to choose the right one, home cooks can elevate their dishes to the next level.