Madeira Wine

Vitis vinifera Alcohol (Fortified Wine)

Madeira Wine Alcohol (Fortified Wine)

At a Glance

  • Category Alcohol (Fortified Wine)

The Forktionary Angle

"A robust fortified wine renowned for its durability and complex flavor, making it an indispensable secret weapon in classic sauces and gourmet dishes."

Definition

A fortified Portuguese wine from Madeira Islands, unique for its heating process (estufagem), imparting a distinct nutty, caramelized flavor.

Culinary Staple Highly prized in French cuisine for pan sauces, reductions, and classic dishes like Veal Oscar.
Longevity (Opened) Can last for months, even years, once opened due to its fortification and oxidation.
Unique Production Heated and oxidized (estufagem process) giving it a distinctive cooked, nutty flavor.

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Madeira Wine are:

Nutty caramelized toffee dried fruit smoky with varying levels of sweetness (dry to very sweet)

Chef’s Secret

Madeira is exceptional for deglazing pans after searing meat. Its robust flavor creates a rich, umami-packed sauce that won't cook off like regular wine.

Best Substitutes

Dry Sherry

for dry Madeira
Ratio 1:1

Marsala Wine

for sweet Madeira
Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

For cooking, look for 'Cooking Madeira' or a cheaper dry Madeira. For sipping, choose a specific varietal like Sercial (dry) or Bual (medium-sweet).

Recipes Using Madeira Wine

Fruit Fruit English Vegetarian

A Mere Trifle Strawberries And Clotted Cream Trifle

Indulge in this stunning Strawberry and Clotted Cream Trifle! Layers of light sponge cake, luscious strawberries, and homemade strawberry jam create a symphony of flavors, all enveloped in creamy custard and topped with decadent clotted cream. This elegant dessert is perfect for afternoon tea, special occasions, or a simple yet impressive treat. Easily adaptable for children or non-drinkers by substituting Madeira with your favorite fruit juice. A recipe passed down from a British magazine, capturing the essence of a Devon cream tea. Garnish with pink rose petals for an extra touch of romance (optional).

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Time To Make Stove Top Low Carb Course

Beef Tenderloin Steak With Mushrooms And Madeira

Elevate your dinner party with this exquisite Beef Tenderloin Steak recipe! Using the highest quality filet mignon (or porterhouse), this recipe delivers an unforgettable culinary experience. Savor the rich, savory flavors of perfectly seared steak complemented by earthy mushrooms and a luscious Madeira wine sauce. This recipe is easily doubled for a crowd, and even works beautifully with dry sherry as a substitute for Madeira if needed. Prepare to be amazed – this is destined to become your new favorite steak recipe!

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Occasion New Years North American Time To Make

Beef Tenderloin En Croute

Elevate your holiday meal with this show-stopping Beef Tenderloin En Croute! This recipe, inspired by a cherished Christmas gift cookbook, delivers a luxurious and flavorful centerpiece that's sure to impress. Tender beef tenderloin is perfectly seasoned and wrapped in a flaky, buttery pastry crust, creating a stunning and delicious main course. Perfect for special occasions or a memorable Sunday dinner.

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Main Ingredient Low Protein Low Carb Dinner Party

Baked Green Beans With Mushrooms Pine Nuts

This make-ahead recipe is a delightful side dish, perfect for busy weeknights! Crisp-tender green beans are roasted with earthy mushrooms, fragrant thyme, and crunchy toasted pine nuts. Prepare it in advance, refrigerate, and pop it in the oven 30 minutes before dinner. Customize the cooking time for your preferred bean texture – 30 minutes yields extra-crisp beans, while adding up to 20 minutes ensures a well-cooked result. A burst of Madeira wine adds depth and richness!

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Meat Meat Course Main Dish

Beef In Red Wine

Indulge in this decadent Beef in Red Wine roast, inspired by Charlotte Turgeon's Encyclopedia of Creative Cooking. This recipe delivers a melt-in-your-mouth beef experience, slow-cooked to perfection in a rich red wine sauce. The 12-24 hour marinade ensures maximum flavor penetration, resulting in an unforgettable culinary masterpiece. Learn a simple tomato peeling trick for effortless prep!

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Main Dish Main Ingredient One Dish Meal Vegetables

Bacon And Wild Mushroom Risotto With Baby Spinach

Indulge in this creamy, decadent Bacon and Wild Mushroom Risotto, elevated with fresh baby spinach! This recipe, inspired by Cooking Light, delivers a perfect balance of savory bacon, earthy mushrooms, and delicate spinach. Get ready for a flavor explosion in just an hour. Perfect for a romantic dinner or a special weeknight treat.

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4 Hours Or Less Easy Dinner Party Time To Make

Bacon Wrapped Beef Tenderloin With Madeira

Elevate your holiday table with this show-stopping Bacon-Wrapped Beef Tenderloin! This recipe, inspired by a Southern Living Christmas cookbook, features a succulent beef tenderloin, perfectly wrapped in crispy bacon, and drizzled with a luxurious Madeira wine sauce. A crowd-pleaser for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any special occasion, this dish is easier to make than you think! Prep ahead components and a quick-to-make sauce ensure a stress-free cooking experience. Dry cooking sherry can be substituted for Madeira if needed. Serve alongside your favorite sides for a complete and unforgettable meal.

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Time To Make African Cuisine Time To Make

Beat And Bake Madeira Cake

Need a delicious dessert in a flash? This Beat & Bake Madeira Cake is your new lifesaver! Incredibly quick to mix, it's moist, tender, and requires no icing – perfect for satisfying those sweet cravings instantly. Get ready to impress with this easy, elegant cake!

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European European Preparation Polish

Bigos From Out Of This Kitchen

Dive into the rich flavors of authentic Polish Bigos! This hearty hunter's stew, made with a secret family recipe, is incredibly flavorful but requires some time and patience. The result? A deeply satisfying, complex, and unforgettable dish perfect for a chilly evening. Get ready for an adventure in taste!

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