Shaoxing Wine: A Key Element Of Authentic Chinese Cooking
on Jan 13, 2023, Updated Nov 21, 2023
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Shaoxing wine is a common ingredient in many Chinese dishes. It brings authentic flavor to popular dishes from wontons to dumplings and stir-fries.
In this post we’re sharing some information about Shaoxing wine as well as the best substitutions to use if it’s difficult to source where you live.
What Is Shaoxing Wine?
Shaoxing wine is a type of Chinese cooking wine that’s made from fermented rice. It’s originally from the city of Shaoxing in China which is known for producing rice wine.
It’s a staple in Chinese pantries and a key ingredient in authentic Chinese dishes.
What Does Shaoxing Wine Taste Like?
The flavor of Shaoxing wine is described as spicy and vinegary with a hint of caramel.
Ways To Use Shaoxing Wine
Shaoxing wine is typically used to add flavor to Chinese dishes. Here are just a few popular ways to use it:
- Adds flavor to fillings for wontons and dumplings.
- Used as an ingredient in marinades for meat.
- Added to veggies and stir-fry dishes to enhance the flavor of sauces.
- Used to add flavor to noodle dishes and soups.
Where Can I Buy Shaoxing Wine?
Shaoxing wine is typically sold at Chinese grocery stores. There are many brands of Shaoxing wine and most come in a red bottle.
How to Store Shaoxing Wine
Shaoxing wine should be stored in a cool, dark place for up to 6 months. If you don’t use it often, keep it in the fridge where it will last longer.
Substitutions For Shaoxing Wine
If you can’t find Shaoxing wine in your neighborhood, dry cooking sherry is a very good and easy to source substitution.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Shaoxing Wine The Same As Rice Wine?
Both types of wine are made from fermented rice. Shaoxing is amber in color compared to the clear color of rice cooking wine and has a deeper, more complex flavor.
Is Mirin The Same As Shaoxing Wine?
No. Mirin is much sweeter than Shaoxing wine and it has a fragrant smell. It can be used as a substitute for Shaoxing wine but because it’s much sweeter, you may have to remove or adjust the amount of sugar called for in the recipe you’re using.
Is There Alcohol In Shaoxing Wine?
Yes. Shaoxing wine contains about 17-18% alcohol. Even though it contains a lot of alcohol, it doesn’t have a strong alcohol smell.
Best Shaoxing Wine Substitutes
Use any of the following substitutes to replace Shaoxing wine at a ratio of 1:1 as long as you’re using less than 2 tablespoons.
- dry cooking sherry
- Chinese rice wine such as mi jiu
- mirin (reduce the sugar called for in your recipe because mirin is quite sweet)
- sake
The best substitutes for Shaoxing wine are Chinese rice wines and dry cooking sherry.
How to Substitute Shaoxing Wine
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon dry cooking sherry
- Optional other substitute such as Chinese rice wine, mirin, or sake
Instructions
- Substitute dry cooking sherry with 1:1 ratio according to the recipe.
Nutrition information provided is an estimate only and will vary based on ingredient brands and cooking methods used.
