What to Know About Cooking with Wine
October 29, 2024

What to Know About Cooking with Wine

Italian dinner with white wine

Why cook with wine at all? Wine adds complexity and depth to your dishes. The alcohol in wine helps release flavors in your food that wouldn’t come out otherwise, while its acidity balances richness and adds brightness.

Cooking with wine is a delicious way to enhance the flavors of your dishes, but it’s essential to know a few key things before getting started. First and foremost, the wine you use for cooking should be wine you enjoy drinking. It’s a common myth that you can use cheap wine for cooking because the flavors will somehow “cook out.” In reality, a wine that you wouldn’t want to drink on its own can leave unpleasant flavors in your dish. Think of wine as an ingredient in the same way you’d choose quality spices or herbs—you want something that will elevate your food, not bring it down.

Cooking seafood with white wine

Red wine, for example, works wonders in dishes like pasta sauces, pot roasts, or the French classic beef bourguignonne. The tannins and bold flavors of red wine help tenderize meat while imparting deep, savory notes. 

On the other hand, white wine is perfect for lighter dishes, such as seafood pasta sauces or chicken in wine-based sauces. Its acidity and fruitiness add a fresh, vibrant quality to these dishes.

Family dinner gathering with everyone cheersing with wine

One of the best tips for cooking with wine is to pair the wine you’re cooking with for drinking alongside your meal. If you’re using a rich red wine for your beef stew, serve the same variety at the table—it ties the flavors together beautifully and enhances the overall dining experience.

The Hudson Valley Wine & Food Festival has proudly hosted dozens of wineries over the years, making it the perfect opportunity to discover new favorites and stock up your pantry for all your wine-cooking plans. Whether you’re simmering sauces or creating a luxurious roast, our festival is the perfect place to find the wines that will make your culinary creations shine.

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