Cooking school: how to use wine in the kitchen

Wine is a versatile ingredient that can add depth and complexity to a wide range of dishes. Whether you’re making a classic coq au vin or a simple pan sauce, wine can enhance the flavors in your food and take your to the next level. But if you’ve never used wine in the before, you might be unsure of where to start. Here are some tips for cooking with wine:

Choose the Right Wine
The first step in cooking with wine is to choose the right one. In general, you want a wine that complements the flavors in your dish without overpowering them. For lighter dishes like fish or chicken, a dry wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio is a good choice. For heartier dishes like beef or lamb, a full-bodied red like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot will work well. If you’re using wine in a dessert or sweet sauce, a sweet wine like Port or Muscat is a good option.

Don’t Use Too Much
While wine can add wonderful flavor to your dishes, it’s important not to go overboard. Too much wine can overwhelm your dish and make it unpalatable. In general, one cup of wine is sufficient for most recipes. If you’re unsure, start with a smaller amount and add more if necessary.

Cook Off the Alcohol
When you add wine to a dish, it’s important to let it cook for a few minutes to cook off the alcohol. This will mellow the flavor and prevent the dish from tasting too boozy. After adding the wine, let the dish simmer for a few minutes to allow the alcohol to cook off before continuing with the recipe.

Use Wine as a Marinade
Wine makes a great base for a marinade. It can help tenderize meat and add flavor to vegetables. Simply mix together wine, olive oil, herbs, and seasonings, then marinate your food for a few hours before cooking.

Make a Wine Reduction
A wine reduction is a simple way to add flavor and texture to your dishes. To make a reduction, simmer wine over low heat until it has reduced by half or more. As the wine reduces, it will become thicker and more concentrated, which makes it ideal for drizzling over meats, vegetables, or even ice cream.

Use Wine in Sauces
Wine can add depth and complexity to sauces. After you’ve cooked your meat or vegetables, deglaze the pan with a splash of wine. Scraping up the brown bits will add flavor to the sauce. Then, simply let the wine simmer for a few minutes before adding chicken or beef broth, cream, butter, or other ingredients to finish the sauce.

Cooking with wine can take your dishes to the next level. By choosing the right wine, using it in moderation, and cooking it off, you can add depth and complexity to your dishes that can’t be achieved with other ingredients. Experiment with your favorite dishes and don’t be afraid to try something new. With a little practice, you’ll be a wine expert in no time.