Red wine is a popular ingredient in many dishes, adding depth and richness to everything from stews to desserts. But with so many options, it can be challenging to know what to cook with red wine. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best ways to incorporate red wine into your cooking, including classic dishes and unexpected pairings.
Welcome to this discussion on what to cook with red wine. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cook, incorporating red wine into your dishes can elevate the flavors and add complexity to your meals. In this conversation, we’ll explore different recipes and cooking techniques that make use of red wine as an ingredient. So, grab a glass of your favorite red wine and let’s get started!
Classic Dishes with Red Wine
Beef Bourguignon
Beef Bourguignon is a classic French dish that features beef stewed in red wine with bacon, onions, and mushrooms. The wine adds depth and richness to the dish, while the other ingredients balance out the flavors.
To make Beef Bourguignon, start by browning the beef in a large pot or Dutch oven. Remove the beef and add the bacon, onions, and mushrooms, cooking until they’re softened. Then add in the red wine, beef broth, and herbs like thyme and bay leaves. Simmer the stew for several hours until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded together.
Serve Beef Bourguignon with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes.
Coq au Vin
Another classic French dish, Coq au Vin features chicken cooked in red wine with bacon, onions, and mushrooms. The wine adds a rich, earthy flavor to the dish, while the other ingredients provide a balance of flavors and textures.
To make Coq au Vin, start by browning the chicken in a large pot or Dutch oven. Then remove the chicken and add the bacon, onions, and mushrooms, cooking until they’re softened. Add in the red wine, chicken broth, and herbs like thyme and bay leaves. Simmer the chicken in the sauce until it’s cooked through and tender.
Serve Coq au Vin with crusty bread or over rice.
Red Wine Reduction Sauce
A red wine reduction sauce is a simple yet elegant way to incorporate red wine into your cooking. This sauce is perfect for serving over steak, pork chops, or roasted vegetables.
To make a red wine reduction sauce, start by sautéing sts and garlic in a pan. Then add in red wine and beef broth, and simmer until the liquid has reduced by half. Finish the sauce by whisking in butter and fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary.
Serve the red wine reduction sauce over your favorite protein or roasted vegetables.
Unexpected Pairings with Red Wine
Chocolate Cake
Red wine and chocolate may not seem like an obvious pairing, but they actually complement each other quite well. Red wine can add depth and richness to a chocolate cake, while the chocolate can help balance out the tannins in the wine.
To make a red wine chocolate cake, start by whisking together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, and baking soda. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, red wine, and vanilla extract. Gradually mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, then pour the batter into a greased cake pan.
Bake the cake until it’s cooked through, then let it cool before frosting with your favorite frosting.
Mushroom Risotto
Mushroom risotto is a creamy, comforting dish that pairs well with red wine. The wine adds a depth of flavor to the dish, while the earthy mushrooms complement the wine’s tannins.
To make mushroom risotto, start by sautéing onions and garlic in a large pot or Dutch oven. Then add in arborio rice and cook until it’s toasted. Gradually add in chicken or vegetable broth, stirring constantly until the rice is cooked through and the mixture is creamy.
In a separate pan, sauté mushrooms until they’re tender and browned. Then add them to the risotto and stir until they’re fully incorporated.
Serve mushroom risotto with a glass of red wine for a delicious meal.
Spicy Chicken Tacos
Red wine may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of tacos, but it can actually be a great pairing for spicy chicken tacos. The wine’s tannins can help cut through the heat of the spices, while adding a depth of flavor to the dish.
To make spicy chicken tacos, start by marinating chicken in a mixture of spices like chili powder, cumin, and paprika. Grill or cook the chicken until it’s cooked through, then slice it into bite-sized pieces.
To assemble the tacos, warm up tortillas and top them with the chicken, diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, and avocado. Drizzle with a red wine reduction sauce for an extra burst of flavor.
FAQs: What to Cook with Red Wine
What dishes can I make with red wine?
Red wine is a versatile ingredient that can enhance the flavor of many dishes. It is a classic ingredient in beef stews, pot roasts, and coq au vin. For a vegetarian option, try adding red wine to mushroom dishes, such as a mushroom risotto or a mushroom stroganoff. It can also be used to flavor tomato-based pasta sauces, soups, and even desserts, such as poached pears in red wine.
What type of red wine should I use for cooking?
When it comes to cooking with red wine, you want to use a wine that you would also enjoy drinking. However, you do not need to use an expensive bottle since cooking will significantly alter the wine’s flavor profile. For savory dishes, a dry and full-bodied red wine, such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, or Pinot Noir, works well. For sweet dishes, such as desserts or sauces, go for a sweeter red wine like Port or a dessert wine.
Do I need to cook with a specific vintage of red wine?
No, it is not necessary to use a specific vintage of red wine when cooking. You can use any red wine, including one that has been open for a few days. If the wine has gone bad, you will notice an unpleasant odor and taste, so it’s essential to give the wine a quick smell and taste before using it in your cooking.
How do I cook with red wine?
When cooking with red wine, the general rule is to use about 1 cup of wine for every 2 pounds of meat or vegetables. You can add it at the beginning of cooking or towards the end to deglaze the pan and create a rich sauce. Add the wine little by little while cooking and adjust the seasoning as necessary. Remember to let the alcohol burn off completely to avoid an overpowering taste.