How to make Sicilian cooked wine

Sicilian wine, also known as vino cotto or sapa, is a delightful traditional drink from the beautiful island of Sicily in Southern Italy. This sweet, syrupy wine has been enjoyed for centuries and is often used as a delicious ingredient in both savory and sweet dishes. Making Sicilian cooked wine at home is a wonderful way to connect with Sicilian culinary traditions and treat yourself to a unique, homemade libation. In this article, we will take you through the step-by-step process of creating your own Sicilian cooked wine.

Ingredients:

– 3 liters of red wine (preferably a robust red variety like Nero d’Avola)

– 500 grams of granulated sugar

– 2 cinnamon sticks

– 5 cloves

– 1 lemon, zest only

– 1 orange, zest only

Instructions:

1. Begin by pouring the red wine into a large, wide-bottomed pot or saucepan. The size of the pot should allow for evaporation and reduction of the wine.

2. Add the sugar to the wine and stir gently until it is fully dissolved. The sugar will enhance the sweetness of the wine and contribute to the caramelization process.

3. Place the pot over medium heat and add the cinnamon sticks, cloves, lemon zest, and orange zest. These aromatic ingredients will infuse the wine with delightful flavors and fragrances.

4. Slowly bring the wine to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent any scorching or sticking. It is important not to boil the wine, as this could alter its taste and texture.

5. Allow the wine to simmer uncovered for approximately 2 to 3 hours. This extended cooking time will evaporate much of the liquid, resulting in a thicker, more concentrated wine.

6. Keep an eye on the pot, and as the wine reduces, you may need to lower the heat to maintain a gentle simmer. Stir occasionally to prevent the mixture from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

7. After 2 to 3 hours, check the consistency of the wine. It should have thickened significantly and become syrupy in texture. You can test the consistency by dropping a small amount on a cold plate – it should not spread like water but rather hold its shape.

8. Once achieved, remove the pot from the heat and allow the cooked wine to cool slightly. The aromas will intensify as it cools, making the whole kitchen smell heavenly.

9. Once cooled, strain the cooked wine through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the aromatics and any sediment that may have formed during the cooking process.

10. Pour the strained cooked wine into sterilized bottles or jars, ensuring they are airtight for extended storage.

Sicilian cooked wine can be enjoyed in various ways. You can savor it straight from the bottle as a dessert wine or digestif, indulging in its rich, deep flavors sip by sip. Alternatively, you can use it to enhance dishes by drizzling it over roasted meats, cheeses, or even desserts like panna cotta or gelato. Its sweet, syrupy profile adds a touch of decadence to any culinary creation.

Making Sicilian cooked wine at home provides a connection to the Sicilian culture and allows you to enjoy a traditional beverage with family and friends. So, why not embark on this delightful winemaking journey and experience the flavors of Sicily in your own home? Cheers!