Cooking dinner, should I use red wine or white?

Cooking dinner with wine? Don’t make the mistake of reaching for that boxed wine. When it comes to cooking with wine, there’s a right way and a wrong way. Let’s get into it.

First things first, let’s talk red wine vs. white wine.

If you’re a fan of red wine, you’re in luck because it’s the preferred choice for cooking. When you are cooking meats, wine not only helps to marinate and tenderize meats, but it can also serve as the base for a killer glaze. Cooking with red wine is a great idea to enhance the taste but enjoying a glass isn’t a bad idea either. It makes the whole process of cooking more enjoyable. So, skip the white and pour yourself a glass of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, or Pinot Noir.

But what about white wine?

Don’t worry, it’s not completely useless in the kitchen. A good dry white wine can add a unique impression to certain dishes, like fish, seafood, and chicken. Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc are both excellent options, so feel free to sip on a glass while you cook.

Let’s not forget about quality. Don’t be tempted by those cheap, low-quality bottles. If you want to take your cooking to the next level, invest in a good-quality wine like those found in a Winc subscription box. Not only will it enhance the flavor of your dish, but it’ll also make you feel like a fancy AF millennial chef.

For some specific dishes, using the right wine can make a big difference. When making beef bourguinon, you’ll want to use a dry red wine like a Pinot Noir. This will not only help to tenderize the beef but also add a rich depth of soul to the dish. 

When it comes to making a white wine sauce, don’t just use any old bottle of white wine. You’ll want to use a dry white wine like a Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc. This will give the sauce a subtle tang that pairs perfectly with seafood, chicken, or vegetables.

Pro Tip: It’s not just about the type of wine you use, it’s also about how you use it.

When adding wine to a dish, make sure to let it cook for a few minutes to let it evaporate and the flavors to meld. Don’t be afraid to experiment and taste as you go. Cooking with wine is all about finding the right balance of flavors to create a dish that’s both delicious and sophisticated.

When it comes to cooking with wine, go for the good stuff and pour yourself a glass while you’re at it. And remember, there’s nothing wrong with being a little extra in the kitchen. With the right wine, you can take your cooking to the next level and impress your dinner guests (or just yourself). So, grab a bottle of your favorite red wine or white wine, and get cooking.

Cheers!