Fermented Beverage, Cooking Ingredient | Gluten Free

Rice Wine

Oryza sativa (source grain) Allergen-Free
Rice Wine

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Poaceae
  • Primary Cuisine East Asian
  • Seasonality Year-Round
  • Source Rice

The Forktionary Angle

"The ancient grain's liquid magic, transforming Asian dishes with depth and aroma."

Definition

An alcoholic beverage made from fermented rice, commonly used in Asian cuisine for marinades, stir-fries, and cooking.

Sensory Profile

TasteUmami, Sweet, Tangy, Slightly Salty
TextureLiquid
AromaYeasty, Fermented Rice, Floral, Fruity
AcidityLow

Technical Metrics

Alcohol By Volume (ABV)

Typically 12-20%

Historical Origin

Dates back ~9,000 years in China

Tenderizing Action

Enzymes break down meat proteins

Nutrition Facts

Per 15 mL (1 tbsp)
Calories100 kcal
Total Fat0 g
Saturated Fat0 g
Trans Fat0 g
Cholesterol0 mg
Protein0.5 g
Total Carbohydrate3 g
Dietary Fiber0 g
Total Sugars1 g
Calcium5 mg
Iron0.1 mg
Potassium10 mg

Chef’s Secret

For a more authentic Chinese flavor, always use Shaoxing cooking wine. It adds complex umami and tenderizes meat effectively in marinades.

Substitutions

Best Match

Dry Sherry

1:1

Excellent savory substitute, provides similar depth and umami.

Mirin

1:1 (reduce sugar elsewhere)

Sweet Japanese rice wine, good for glazes and sauces, adds sweetness.

Chicken or Vegetable Broth

1:1 + splash of rice vinegar

Non-alcoholic, provides moisture and some savory notes.

White Grape Juice + Rice Vinegar

1:1 (juice:wine), splash of vinegar

Non-alcoholic, offers sweetness and tang, lacks depth.

Buying Guide

For cooking, choose Shaoxing wine without added salt if possible. Store in a cool, dark place.

Flavor Pairings

Soy sauce ginger garlic sesame oil chili tofu pork chicken seafood.

Recipes Using Rice Wine

Main Dish Technique Main Dish Course

1 Favorite Chinese Steamed Whole Fish By Sy

Experience the exquisite flavors of authentic Cantonese cuisine with this incredibly easy recipe for Steamed Whole Fish! This recipe elevates a simple, fresh fish into a culinary masterpiece. The delicate fish is perfectly steamed, then drizzled with a fragrant and flavorful sauce that will tantalize your taste buds. A perfect weeknight meal or impressive dish for guests!

See Complete Recipe
Asian 30 Minutes Or Less Salads Dietary

Sesame Noodles With Peanut Sauce

Escape the heat with this incredibly satisfying Sesame Noodles with Creamy Peanut Sauce recipe! A vibrant and flavorful cold noodle dish perfect for a hot summer day. This recipe features a rich, homemade peanut sauce that's bursting with sesame flavor and a touch of spice. Ready in under 30 minutes!

See Complete Recipe
Low In Something Savory Sauces Dietary Asian

All Purpose Stir Fry Sauce Brown Garlic Sauce

This incredibly versatile brown garlic stir-fry sauce is a game-changer! Adapted from Martin Yan's classic techniques, this recipe yields 1 ¾ cups of deliciousness – enough for two meals. Imagine the convenience of having this flavorful sauce ready in your fridge for quick weeknight dinners. Even picky eaters will gobble up their veggies when dipped in this savory goodness! We've tweaked the original recipe to use Angostura soy sauce for a less salty, more balanced flavor. Start with a smaller amount of soy sauce and adjust to your preference. Make it vegetarian-friendly by using vegetable broth! Prepare to be amazed by the depth of flavor this easy-to-make sauce delivers.

See Complete Recipe
Course Low Calorie Course Time To Make

Asian Chicken Burgers

Juicy Asian Chicken Burgers bursting with flavor! This recipe skips the bread crumbs and egg unless your chicken is extra dry. These flavorful patties are perfectly complemented by crisp beansprouts, a tangy soy sauce drizzle, and creamy sour cream. Serve on toasted buns for a quick and delicious weeknight meal or a fun weekend BBQ.

See Complete Recipe
Main Ingredient Main Ingredient Pork Meat

Asian Inspired Pulled Pork Shoulder For Tacos Or Sliders

Craving incredible, melt-in-your-mouth pulled pork? This slow cooker recipe delivers Asian-fusion flavor in a fraction of the time! Inspired by classic char siu, but with a unique twist, this recipe transforms a pork shoulder into tender, juicy perfection. Perfect for tacos, sliders, or enjoying on its own! Easy, delicious, and ready in just under 8 hours.

See Complete Recipe
To Go Holiday Event Superbowl Course

Asian Sticky Chicky

Get ready for an explosion of flavor with this Asian Sticky Chicky recipe! Juicy, tender chicken thighs are coated in a luscious, sticky glaze that's sweet, savory, and utterly irresistible. Forget dry chicken breasts – this recipe uses skinless, boneless thighs for maximum flavor and moisture. Easy to follow instructions and a short prep time make this the perfect weeknight meal.

See Complete Recipe
Time To Make Dietary Low Carb Low In Something

Asian Style Savory Baked Tofu

Transform ordinary tofu into an irresistible Asian-inspired dish! This recipe delivers incredibly flavorful, crispy baked tofu that will even convert tofu skeptics. The secret? A flavorful marinade and thorough pressing to remove excess moisture. Get ready for a culinary adventure that's both easy and incredibly rewarding. Perfect for weeknight dinners or impressive gatherings. Inspired by the Sunday Moosewood Cookbook.

See Complete Recipe
Dietary Weeknight Dietary Number Of Servings

Baked Marinated Tofu

Elevate your tofu game with this incredible recipe from renowned food writer Joe Yonan! Freezing the tofu beforehand creates an unbelievably satisfying, crispy texture that absorbs the marinade perfectly. This recipe is quick, easy, and incredibly versatile. Enjoy it immediately as a hearty side dish, or add it to salads, stir-fries, and more! The secret? Freezing the tofu for maximum flavor and texture.

See Complete Recipe
Chinese Technique Course Marinades And Rubs

Beef And Broccoli Stir Fry

Craving authentic Chinese takeout? This Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry recipe delivers the same incredible flavors you love, right in your own kitchen! Inspired by a restaurant favorite, this recipe is quick, easy, and packed with savory goodness. Tender beef, vibrant broccoli, and a mouthwatering sauce come together in a symphony of textures and tastes. Get ready for a restaurant-quality meal in under 30 minutes!

See Complete Recipe