Cooking with White Wine: Which Type to Use for the Best Flavor

Author: Joost Nusselder, author of The Essential Japanese meal planner cookbook Updated August 22, 2022

White wine is fermented without grape skin, with a yellowish color. Using white wine in cooking is a great way to add flavor to dishes. But how much should you use? 

In this article, I’ll share some of my favorite ways to use it and some tips for getting the best results.

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Timing is Everything: When to Add White Wine in Cooking

Adding white wine to a dish can bring out complex flavors and add depth to a recipe. But when should you add it? Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Start by adding the wine at the beginning of the cooking process, before any other liquids or ingredients. This will allow the wine to mix and mingle with the other components of the dish, achieving the ultimate flavor profile.

• If you’re making a sauce or a dish that needs to simmer for a long time, consider adding the wine towards the end of the cooking process. This will prevent the alcohol from cooking away and leaving only the sugars behind, which can make the dish too sweet.

• If you’re making a simple dish with just a few vegetables, adding the wine at the beginning can help to pick up any bits that may be stuck to the bottom of the pan. This will add extra flavor to the dish.

Consider the Dish: When to Add White Wine to Specific Foods

Different dishes may require different techniques when it comes to adding white wine. Here are some examples:

• Beef: Adding white wine to beef dishes can help to tenderize the meat and bring out its natural flavors. For dishes that are simmered for a long time, add the wine towards the end of the cooking process to prevent the alcohol from cooking away.

• Pork: White wine can be a great substitute for dark or red wine in pork dishes. It can help to lighten the dish and bring out the delicate flavors of the meat. Add the wine towards the beginning of the cooking process to allow it to mix with the other ingredients.

• Vegetables: Adding white wine to vegetable dishes can help to bring out their natural sweetness and add extra flavor. Add the wine towards the beginning of the cooking process to allow it to mix with the other ingredients.

• Barbecue or Grilled Foods: Adding white wine to barbecue or grilled foods can help to tenderize the meat and add extra flavor. Gently scrape away any burnt bits from the grill and add the wine towards the end of the cooking process.

Quality Matters: Choosing the Right White Wine

When it comes to choosing the right white wine for cooking, there are a few things to keep in mind:

• Spend a little extra money on a good quality white wine. This will ensure that the flavors are true and that the wine will produce the best results.

• Consider the sweetness and acidity of the wine. A dry white wine with high acidity is a good choice for most dishes, as it will not overpower the other flavors.

• Depending on the dish, you may want to choose a lighter or stronger white wine. For delicate dishes, choose a lighter wine. For more complex dishes, choose a stronger wine.

• Follow the recipe! Some recipes may call for a specific type of white wine, so be sure to read the instructions carefully.

A Tip for Making the Most of White Wine in Cooking

Here’s a final tip to keep in mind:

• When adding white wine to a dish, increase the heat slightly to help the alcohol evaporate. This will leave behind only the flavors of the wine and help to achieve the ultimate flavor profile.

Choosing the Right White Wine for Your Recipe

When it comes to cooking with white wine, it’s important to choose the right type of wine that will complement the flavors of your dish. Here are some of the most common types of white wines and their flavor profiles:

• Sauvignon Blanc: This wine has high acidity levels and a crisp, refreshing taste. It’s perfect for dishes that call for a touch of acidity, such as seafood and salads.
• Chardonnay: Chardonnay is a full-bodied wine with a buttery flavor and a hint of oak. It’s an excellent option for creamy dishes containing dairy, such as pasta and sauces.
• Pinot Grigio: This wine is light and refreshing with a delicate flavor. It’s a great option for dishes that require a subtle wine flavor, such as mushroom dishes and seared scallops.
• Unoaked Whites: These whites are typically meant to be enjoyed young and fresh. They are a solid option for dishes that call for a white wine that won’t overpower the other flavors.

Alternatives to White Wine

If you don’t have white wine on hand or prefer not to use it in your cooking, there are some alternatives you can try:

• White wine vinegar: This vinegar has a similar acidity level to white wine and can be used as a substitute in most recipes.
• Lemon juice: Lemon juice can be used to add acidity to a dish, just like white wine. Use it sparingly to avoid overpowering the other flavors.
• White grape juice: If you’re looking for a non-alcoholic option, white grape juice can be used to add depth and flavor to a dish.

Remember, when it comes to cooking with white wine, the key is to stay in touch with your palate and be careful not to overpower the other flavors in the dish. With the right wine and a gentle touch, you can accentuate the flavors of your food and create a dish that is both savory and balanced.

White Wine Recipes: Adding a Touch of Class to Your Cooking

White wine is the perfect addition to meat dishes, adding a touch of acidity and depth of flavor. Here are some recipes to try:

• Chicken in White Wine Sauce: This family favorite is easy to make and always a hit. Simply sauté chicken breasts in a pan, deglaze with white wine, and add in some chicken broth, cream, and herbs for a delicious sauce.
• White Wine Braised Short Ribs: This recipe is perfect for a special occasion or dinner party. Brown the short ribs in a pan, then add in white wine, beef broth, and aromatics. Let it simmer for a few hours until the meat is tender and falling off the bone.
• White Wine Pork Chops: This recipe is quick and easy to make. Sear the pork chops in a pan, then deglaze with white wine and add in some chicken broth, garlic, and herbs. Let it simmer until the pork chops are cooked through.

Recipes Containing Dairy

White wine can also be used in dishes containing dairy, adding a subtle flavor and acidity. Here are some recipes to try:

• White Wine Risotto: This creamy and comforting dish is perfect for a cozy night in. Sauté onions and garlic in a pan, then add in arborio rice and white wine. Slowly add in chicken broth and parmesan cheese until the risotto is cooked through.
• White Wine Cream Sauce: This versatile sauce can be used on pasta, chicken, or fish. Sauté garlic in a pan, then add in white wine and heavy cream. Let it simmer until the sauce has thickened, then add in parmesan cheese and herbs.

Conclusion

So, there you have it- how to use white wine in cooking. It can add a subtle flavor to your dishes and can help tenderize meat. It’s also a great way to add some extra moisture to your cooking. So don’t be afraid to give it a try! You might just find a new favorite ingredient!

Check out our new cookbook

Bitemybun's family recipes with complete meal planner and recipe guide.

Try it out for free with Kindle Unlimited:

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Joost Nusselder, the founder of Bite My Bun is a content marketer, dad and loves trying out new food with Japanese food at the heart of his passion, and together with his team he's been creating in-depth blog articles since 2016 to help loyal readers with recipes and cooking tips.