Out of Shaoxing Wine? Try These 4 Easy Swaps
Run out of shaoxing wine mid-recipe? No worries. We've got 4 tried-and-tested substitutes that actually work. Whether you're making a quick weeknight dinner or baking something special, these alternatives will save your dish. The most popular swap is dry sherry, which works great in cooking and savory dishes. Each substitute below includes exact measurements and tips so you know exactly what to do.
⚡ Quick Answer (30 sec read)
Use Dry sherry instead. Use 1:1 ratio. Best substitute, very similar.
✅ 4 Tested Shaoxing Wine Substitutes (With Exact Ratios)
1. Dry sherry
CookingUse 1:1 ratio. Best substitute, very similar.
2. Sake
CookingUse 1:1 ratio. Less complex but works.
3. Dry white wine + splash soy
CookingUse white wine + tiny splash soy sauce. Adds depth.
4. Mirin (reduce sweetness)
CookingUse ¾ amount. Sweeter than Shaoxing.
Tips for Substituting Shaoxing Wine
When cooking without shaoxing wine, taste as you go and adjust seasoning. Most substitutes work best when added at the same point in the recipe as the original ingredient. Don't be afraid to combine two substitutes for a closer match to the original flavor.
What NOT to Do When Substituting Shaoxing Wine
- xDon't use the same amount without checking the ratio - some substitutes are stronger or weaker than shaoxing wine.
- xDon't substitute in recipes where shaoxing wine is the star ingredient - the difference will be too noticeable.
- xDon't combine multiple substitutes at once - pick one and adjust from there.
Quick Substitution Ratios
| Substitute | Amount for 1 cup Shaoxing Wine | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Dry sherry | Use 1:1 ratio | cooking |
| Sake | Use 1:1 ratio | cooking |
| Dry white wine + splash soy | Use white wine + tiny splash soy sauce | cooking |
| Mirin (reduce sweetness) | Use ¾ amount | cooking |
Safety Tips
- 1.Always check for allergies - if someone is allergic to shaoxing wine, they may also react to certain substitutes like nut-based alternatives.
- 2.When baking, substitutes can affect rising and texture. Test with a small batch first if making for an important occasion.
- 3.Check expiration dates on substitutes - using fresh ingredients ensures the best flavor and food safety.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best substitute for shaoxing wine?
The best substitute for shaoxing wine is Dry sherry. Use 1:1 ratio. Best substitute, very similar. This works well in most recipes that call for shaoxing wine.
Can I use dry instead of shaoxing wine?
Yes, dry sherry is an excellent substitute for shaoxing wine. Use 1:1 ratio. Best substitute, very similar.
What can I use instead of shaoxing wine in cooking?
For cooking, try: Dry sherry, Sake, Dry white wine + splash soy. These substitutes work well in savory dishes, sauces, and everyday cooking.
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