Fortified Wine | Vegetarian Gluten Free

Marsala Wine

Vitis vinifera Allergens: Sulfites
Marsala Wine

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Vitaceae
  • Primary Cuisine Italian
  • Seasonality Year-Round
  • Source Grapes

The Forktionary Angle

"The Sicilian secret to deeply flavored, restaurant-quality savory and sweet dishes."

Definition

A fortified wine from Sicily, Italy, ranging from dry to sweet, used for both cooking and sipping.

Sensory Profile

TasteSweet, Nutty, Caramel, Raisin (sweet varieties); Dry, Savory (dry varieties)
TextureViscous, Smooth
AromaDried fruit, Vanilla, Brown sugar, Caramel
AcidityMedium

Technical Metrics

Common Usage

Essential for classic dishes like Chicken Marsala and Veal Marsala.

Geographic Origin

Named after the city of Marsala in Sicily, Italy, where it originated.

Storage Tip

Once opened, store tightly corked in a cool, dark place for 1-2 months.

Nutrition Facts

Per 60ml (1/4 cup)
Calories100 kcal
Total Fat0 g
Saturated Fat0 g
Trans Fat0 g
Cholesterol0 mg
Protein0.1 g
Total Carbohydrate12 g
Dietary Fiber0 g
Total Sugars10 g
Calcium1 mg
Iron0.1 mg
Potassium20 mg

Chef’s Secret

Deglaze your pan with Marsala to capture all the flavorful fond, creating a richer sauce base.

Substitutions

Best Match

Dry Sherry (Amontillado or Oloroso)

1:1

Closest flavor profile for savory dishes, especially for chicken marsala.

Madeira Wine

1:1

Similar fortified wine with nutty, caramelized notes, good for reductions.

White Wine + Brandy

1 cup white wine + 1/4 cup brandy

A good emergency pantry substitute, provides complexity and acidity.

Red Grape Juice + Balsamic Vinegar

1 cup juice + 1 tbsp vinegar

Non-alcoholic option, offers sweetness and tang but lacks complexity.

Buying Guide

For cooking, choose "Fine" or "Superiore." For drinking, look for "Vergine" or "Soleras." Store opened bottles in the refrigerator.

Flavor Pairings

Chicken Marsala veal dishes tiramisu strong cheeses chocolate.

Recipes Using Marsala Wine

Main Ingredient Seafood Main Ingredient Course

Fake Crab Stroganoff

This surprisingly delicious Fake Crab Stroganoff recipe is a family favorite! Our son enjoyed it for years before discovering the 'secret' ingredient – delicious, budget-friendly imitation crab meat! But hey, feel free to use real crab for an extra luxurious treat. This lighter take uses low-fat sour cream and soup, and butter-flavored cooking spray instead of butter, significantly reducing fat without sacrificing flavor. Quick, easy, and perfect served with a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal. Get ready for rave reviews!

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Meat Low In Something Beef Main Dish

Amazing Rib Eye Steaks With Marsala Sauce

Savor the rich, earthy flavors of this restaurant-quality Rib Eye Steak dinner! Pan-fried to perfection and topped with a luscious Marsala mushroom sauce, this recipe is ready in under 30 minutes. The creamy, decadent sauce is so irresistible, you'll be licking your plate clean! Impress your family and friends with this easy yet elegant meal.

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3 Steps Or Less 3 Steps Or Less Easy Low In Something

Artichoke Gratin Giada De Laurentiis

Elevate your next dinner party with Giada De Laurentiis' irresistible Artichoke Gratin! This stunning side dish features tender artichoke hearts, fragrant garlic, and a crispy Parmesan breadcrumb topping. A perfect blend of savory and satisfying, it's surprisingly easy to make and guaranteed to impress. Get ready for rave reviews!

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Time To Make Low In Something Vegetables Preparation

Artichoke Gratinata

Experience the irresistible flavors of Giada De Laurentiis with this incredible Artichoke Gratinata! Crispy golden breadcrumbs, melted butter, and tender artichoke hearts create a symphony of taste in this easy-to-make, 25-minute oven-baked dish. Perfect as a side or a light vegetarian meal, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.

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60 Minutes Or Less 60 Minutes Or Less Side Dishes Main Ingredient

Baked Orzo With Fontina And Peas

Inspired by Giada De Laurentiis, this creamy baked orzo pasta dish is a comforting and flavorful masterpiece! Tender orzo pasta is baked with creamy fontina cheese, sweet peas, and a savory mushroom and marsala wine sauce. Topped with a crunchy breadcrumb topping, it's the perfect weeknight dinner or special occasion side dish. Get ready for a taste of Italy!

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Meat Chicken Low Saturated Fat Dinner Party

Basil Chicken Marsala With Mushrooms

Savor the delightful combination of juicy chicken, earthy mushrooms, and fragrant basil in this quick and easy Chicken Marsala recipe! This 15-minute meal is perfect for a weeknight dinner, boasting rich Marsala wine sauce and a burst of fresh basil flavor. Impress your family and friends with this restaurant-quality dish!

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Occasion Main Dish Dietary Main Ingredient

Beef En Croute With Marsala Sauce

Elevate your dinner party with this show-stopping Beef En Croute! This recipe features succulent steak encased in golden puff pastry, complemented by a decadent Marsala wine sauce. Perfect for a special occasion or a truly impressive weeknight meal. Customize it with your favorite steak cut – we used topside, but ribeye or filet mignon would be equally delicious. The recipe is easily scalable, so you can make enough for a crowd or just a romantic dinner for two. Plus, it’s freezer-friendly – make extra for another night! Served with creamy mashed potatoes and roasted carrots (not included in recipe).

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Pasta Rice And Grains Equipment Occasion Presentation

Best Creamy Marsala Wine Sauce Over Mushroom Ravioli

Indulge in this decadent copycat recipe of the Macaroni Grill's famous mushroom ravioli! Our creamy Marsala wine sauce perfectly complements the savory portobello mushroom-stuffed ravioli. This easy 20-minute recipe is sure to impress your family and friends with its rich flavors and elegant presentation.

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Italian 4 Hours Or Less Cuisine Preparation

Biba's Osso Bucco

Unearth a culinary treasure! This Osso Buco recipe, originally found scribbled on an old telephone bill, hails from Biba's Italian Kitchen TV show. Prepare for melt-in-your-mouth veal shanks braised to perfection in a rich, savory sauce. A true taste of authentic Italian home cooking – don't miss this hidden gem!

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