10 Ways to Incorporate Wine in Cooking

Introduction


Wine lovers appreciate the rich variety of flavours and aromas that different wines offer. They enjoy exploring the nuances of each wine, from the boldness of a full-bodied red to the crispness of a refreshing white. For many, wine tasting is not just about drinking but about experiencing the history and craftsmanship behind each bottle. Wine lovers often enjoy pairing wines with food to enhance the dining experience. Whether sharing a bottle with friends or savouring a glass alone, wine brings joy and a sense of connection to those who love it.

Different types of Rico wines


At Rico Wine Park and Vineyards, we offer a diverse selection of wines to suit every palate. Rico Cabernet Shiraz Wine is a prime example of two legendary grape varieties harmoniously combined to create a masterful blend. Chenin Blanc is a delightful white wine featuring citrus notes from ripe green fruits, stone fruits, and tropical fruits, with a touch of honey on the finish. The red wine is a pleasant and well-balanced option for drinking as it has a wonderful Shiraz varietal taste with a rich aroma of spices and smoke. Rich spices, and bold flavours of plum, cherry, blackberry, black pepper, vanilla, cedar, and smokiness characterise Shiraz red wine.

Why is wine used in cooking


Using wine in your cooking can elevate your dishes to new heights. Here are ten ways to incorporate wine into your cooking

Marinades: wine’s acidity helps tenderise meat and poultry, allowing other flavours to penetrate. Use red wine for chicken dishes.

Deglazing: Pour wine into a hot pan to loosen and flavour the food (the flavourful bits stuck to the pan) This technique is great for making sauces and gravies.

Braising and stewing: Use wine to braise meats, to break down tough fibre and rich flavour

Pouching fruit: Pouch, Quinces or apples in wine with added spices for a sweet and flavourful dessert.

Steaming and cooking vegetables: Add a splash of wine to your steamer basket or cooking liquid to infuse vegetables with suitable wine flavour.

Basting: Use wine to baste meats, such as turkey, during cooking liquid to infuse vegetables with subtle wine flavour.

Risotto: Start your risotto with a splash of wine to add depth and richness to the dish.

Tomato-based sauces: Add wine to tomato sauces to enhance their flavour and texture. This works well in pasta sauces like Bolognese.

Desserts: Use wine in desserts like poached pears or as a flavour component in cakes and cookies.

These methods will help you make the most of your wine in the kitchen, whether you’re cooking a hearty stew or sweet dessert.

Conclusion


Wine is used in cooking to enhance the flavour and complexity of dishes. Its acidity helps to tenderise meat, making it more succulent. Wine also acts as a deglazing agent, lifting the flavourful browned bits from the bottom of a pan to create rich sauces. Additionally, it adds depth and aroma to soups, stews, and risottos. Cooking with wine can bring out the best in savoury and sweet recipes, making meals more enjoyable. Rico Wine Park and vineyards offer one of the best wines that can be utilised for cooking a sumptuous meal.