Cooking Wine, Fermented Product | Vegetarian

Shaoxing Wine

Oryza sativa (for rice) Allergens: Wheat, Sulfite
Shaoxing Wine

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Poaceae
  • Primary Cuisine East Asian
  • Seasonality Year-Round
  • Source Glutinous rice, Water, Wheat, Yeast, Starter culture

The Forktionary Angle

"The secret ingredient for authentic Chinese flavor, bringing complexity and aroma."

Definition

A traditional Chinese fermented rice wine, amber-colored, with a distinctive rich, nutty, and slightly sweet flavor, essential for many Chinese dishes.

Sensory Profile

TasteUmami, Salty, Slightly Sweet, Nutty, Complex, Alcoholic
TextureLiquid, Smooth
AromaFermented, Earthy, Rich, Sherry-like
AcidityLow

Technical Metrics

Alcohol Content

Typically 14-18% ABV

Fermentation Period

Years for aged varieties

Role in Cooking

Marinade, deglazing, flavor base

Nutrition Facts

Per 15ml (1 tbsp)
Calories100 kcal
Total Fat0g
Saturated Fat0g
Trans Fat0g
Cholesterol0mg
Protein0.5g
Total Carbohydrate3g
Dietary Fiber0g
Total Sugars1g
Calcium5mg
Iron0.1mg
Potassium20mg

Chef’s Secret

A splash of Shaoxing wine is crucial for marinades and stir-fries; it tenderizes meat and adds characteristic depth of flavor.

Substitutions

Best Match

Dry Sherry

1:1

Closest flavor profile, good for deglazing and adding depth.

Mirin (Japanese Rice Wine)

1:1 (reduce sugar elsewhere)

Sweeter, but offers similar umami and rice wine flavor profile.

White Wine (dry)

1:1

Less complex, but provides acidity and liquid, use sparingly.

Rice Vinegar (with a pinch of sugar)

1:1

For non-alcoholic options, provides acidity, lacks depth of flavor.

Buying Guide

Look for bottles specifically labeled "Shaoxing cooking wine" or "Shaohsing rice wine," often with added salt.

Flavor Pairings

Stir-fries braised meats marinades wontons dumplings sauces.

Recipes Using Shaoxing Wine

Authentic Black Bean Chicken image 136
Main Dish Cuisine Served Hot Hunan

Authentic Black Bean Chicken

Experience the magic of authentic Chinese black bean chicken! This recipe, inspired by renowned chef Fuchsia Dunlop, features savory fermented black beans (easily found in Asian markets – they last forever!), delivering a depth of flavor unmatched by typical Mexican black beans. This vibrant dish boasts tender chicken, fragrant ginger and garlic, a touch of spicy chili, and a pop of color from red bell peppers. Get ready for a restaurant-quality meal in just 25 minutes! (See my review of recipe #247607 for more inspiration!)

See Complete Recipe
Baked Oriental Chicken image 186
Main Dish Main Dish Chicken Thighs Legs 60 Minutes Or Less

Baked Oriental Chicken

A deliciously easy and healthy Chinese-inspired dish, adapted from Delia Smith! This low-fat baked chicken recipe is bursting with flavor and ready in under an hour. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, impressing guests, or simply satisfying your craving for authentic Asian tastes.

See Complete Recipe
Bhutanese Chile Chicken With Red Rice image 152
Main Ingredient Main Ingredient Asian Meat

Bhutanese Chile Chicken With Red Rice

Experience the fiery flavors of the Himalayas with this Bhutanese-inspired chicken stir-fry! This healthier twist on a classic recipe uses whole-grain red rice for extra fiber and reduces sodium and fat. Customize the heat with your favorite chili—jalapenos, Thai chilis, or even ghost peppers for the truly adventurous. A vibrant and flavorful dish ready in under an hour!

See Complete Recipe