Forktionary

Shaoxing Wine

N/A (rice wine) Condiment, Alcohol, Asian Ingredient

Shaoxing Wine Condiment, Alcohol, Asian Ingredient

At a Glance

  • Category Condiment, Alcohol, Asian Ingredient

The Forktionary Angle

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

Definition

A traditional Chinese fermented rice wine, often amber-colored, crucial for adding depth, aroma, and umami to Chinese cuisine.

Alcohol Content Typically 14-18% ABV
Fermentation Period Years for aged varieties
Role in Cooking Marinade, deglazing, flavor base

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Shaoxing Wine are:

Slightly sweet tangy nutty complex umami-rich

Chef’s Secret

Marinate meats with Shaoxing wine before stir-frying; it tenderizes and adds a fundamental layer of authentic Chinese flavor that can't be replicated.

Best Substitutes

Dry Sherry

use cooking sherry
Ratio 1:1

Mirin

sweeter, less complex

Sake

drier, less robust

Buying Guide

Look for bottles labeled 'for cooking' or 'drinking' (drinking quality is better). Avoid those with added salt.

Culinary Pairings

Soy sauce ginger garlic sesame oil five-spice powder chicken pork beef seafood

Recipes Using Shaoxing Wine

Asian Braised Duck Legs image
Kosher Preparation Poultry Vegetables

Asian Braised Duck Legs

Fall-off-the-bone tender duck legs braised to perfection with aromatic Asian spices! Inspired by Ming Tsai, this recipe delivers rich, savory flavors in every bite. A guaranteed crowd-pleaser for your next dinner party or a cozy weeknight meal.

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Bhutanese Chile Chicken With Red Rice image
Time To Make Occasion One Dish Meal Chicken Breasts

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!

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Authentic Black Bean Chicken image
Preparation Asian Taste Mood Beans

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!)

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Baked Oriental Chicken image 120
Equipment Chinese Dietary Poultry

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