Cooking sherry is a staple ingredient in many recipes, adding a depth of flavor and richness that elevates dishes from ordinary to extraordinary. However, finding the right cooking sherry can be a daunting task, especially for those new to cooking or unfamiliar with the world of fortified wines. In this article, we’ll explore the best places to get cooking sherry, from local wine shops to online retailers, and provide tips on how to choose the perfect bottle for your culinary needs.
Understanding Cooking Sherry
Before we dive into where to get cooking sherry, it’s essential to understand what cooking sherry is and how it’s used in cooking. Cooking sherry is a type of fortified wine that’s specifically designed for cooking. It’s made from a combination of wine, usually a dry white wine, and a neutral grape spirit. The resulting liquid is a rich, savory wine with a high acidity level, making it perfect for adding depth and complexity to sauces, soups, and stews.
The Difference Between Cooking Sherry and Drinking Sherry
It’s essential to note that cooking sherry is not the same as drinking sherry. While drinking sherry is a high-quality, aged wine meant to be enjoyed on its own, cooking sherry is a more affordable, mass-produced wine designed specifically for cooking. Cooking sherry is often made from lower-quality grapes and is not aged for as long as drinking sherry, resulting in a less complex flavor profile.
Where to Get Cooking Sherry
Now that we’ve covered the basics of cooking sherry, let’s explore where to get it. Here are some of the best places to find cooking sherry:
Local Wine Shops
Local wine shops are an excellent place to start your search for cooking sherry. These stores typically carry a wide selection of wines, including cooking sherry, and the staff is often knowledgeable about the products they sell. When shopping at a local wine shop, be sure to ask the staff for recommendations on the best cooking sherry for your needs.
Benefits of Shopping at Local Wine Shops
Shopping at local wine shops has several benefits, including:
- Personalized service: The staff at local wine shops is often happy to help you find the perfect cooking sherry for your needs.
- Wide selection: Local wine shops typically carry a wide selection of wines, including cooking sherry.
- Support for local businesses: By shopping at local wine shops, you’re supporting local businesses and contributing to the local economy.
Online Retailers
Online retailers are another excellent place to find cooking sherry. These stores often carry a wide selection of wines, including cooking sherry, and offer convenient shipping options. Some popular online retailers for cooking sherry include:
- Amazon
- Walmart
- Total Wine
Benefits of Shopping Online
Shopping online has several benefits, including:
- Convenience: Online retailers are open 24/7, making it easy to shop at any time.
- Wide selection: Online retailers often carry a wide selection of wines, including cooking sherry.
- Competitive pricing: Online retailers often offer competitive pricing, making it easy to find a good deal.
How to Choose the Perfect Cooking Sherry
With so many options available, choosing the perfect cooking sherry can be overwhelming. Here are some tips to help you make the right choice:
Consider the Recipe
When choosing a cooking sherry, consider the recipe you’re using it in. If you’re making a dish with strong flavors, such as a beef stew, you’ll want a cooking sherry with a bold flavor profile. If you’re making a dish with delicate flavors, such as a chicken soup, you’ll want a cooking sherry with a lighter flavor profile.
Flavor Profiles to Consider
Here are some common flavor profiles to consider when choosing a cooking sherry:
- Dry: A dry cooking sherry is perfect for dishes with strong flavors, such as beef stews and braises.
- Sweet: A sweet cooking sherry is perfect for dishes with delicate flavors, such as chicken soups and sauces.
- Nutty: A nutty cooking sherry is perfect for dishes with rich, savory flavors, such as mushroom sauces and stews.
Check the Label
When choosing a cooking sherry, be sure to check the label. Look for the following information:
- Ingredients: Make sure the cooking sherry is made from high-quality ingredients, such as grapes and neutral grape spirit.
- Acidity level: A good cooking sherry should have a high acidity level, which will help to balance the flavors in your dish.
- Age: While cooking sherry is not aged for as long as drinking sherry, look for a cooking sherry that’s been aged for at least a few months.
Red Flags to Watch Out For
Here are some red flags to watch out for when choosing a cooking sherry:
- Added preservatives: Some cooking sherries may contain added preservatives, such as sodium benzoate. Avoid these products if possible.
- Low acidity level: A cooking sherry with a low acidity level may not provide the best flavor for your dish.
- Unknown ingredients: If the label doesn’t list the ingredients, it’s best to avoid the product.
Conclusion
Cooking sherry is a versatile ingredient that can add depth and complexity to a wide range of dishes. By understanding what cooking sherry is and how it’s used in cooking, you can make informed decisions when shopping for this ingredient. Whether you prefer to shop at local wine shops or online retailers, there are many options available. By considering the recipe, flavor profile, and label information, you can choose the perfect cooking sherry for your culinary needs.
What is cooking sherry and how is it different from regular sherry?
Cooking sherry is a type of fortified wine that is specifically designed for cooking purposes. It is different from regular sherry in that it is usually made from a blend of wines and has a higher acidity level, which makes it more suitable for cooking. Cooking sherry is also often less expensive than regular sherry, as it is not intended for drinking.
When using cooking sherry, it’s essential to note that it can be quite salty, so it’s best to use it sparingly and balance it with other ingredients. Additionally, cooking sherry can be used in a variety of dishes, from soups and stews to sauces and marinades. It adds a rich, depth of flavor that can elevate many recipes.
Where can I find cooking sherry in stores?
Cooking sherry can usually be found in the wine or cooking wine section of most supermarkets. It may be located near the vinegar or other specialty condiments. If you’re having trouble finding it, you can also try checking with specialty food stores or gourmet markets. Some stores may carry it in the international or Spanish food section, as sherry is a type of Spanish wine.
If you’re still having trouble finding cooking sherry in stores, you can also try shopping online. Many online retailers carry a wide selection of cooking wines, including sherry. Just be sure to check the ingredients and reviews before making a purchase, as some cooking sherries may be of lower quality than others.
Can I use regular sherry instead of cooking sherry?
While it’s technically possible to use regular sherry instead of cooking sherry, it’s not always the best option. Regular sherry is designed for drinking, so it may be sweeter and have a more delicate flavor than cooking sherry. This can affect the overall taste of your dish, especially if you’re using a large amount of sherry.
That being said, if you only have regular sherry on hand, you can still use it in a pinch. Just be aware that the flavor may be slightly different, and you may need to adjust the amount used and other ingredients to balance it out. It’s also worth noting that regular sherry can be more expensive than cooking sherry, so it may not be the most cost-effective option.
How do I store cooking sherry?
Cooking sherry can be stored in a cool, dark place, such as a pantry or cupboard. It’s best to keep it away from direct sunlight and heat sources, as this can cause the wine to degrade over time. You can store it in the original bottle or transfer it to a smaller container, such as a glass jar with a tight-fitting lid.
Once opened, cooking sherry can last for several months to a year or more, depending on the quality and storage conditions. It’s best to check the expiration date or “best by” date on the label and use your best judgment. If the sherry develops an off smell or taste, it’s best to err on the side of caution and discard it.
Can I make my own cooking sherry at home?
While it’s possible to make your own cooking sherry at home, it may not be the most practical or cost-effective option. Cooking sherry is a type of fortified wine that requires a specific blend of wines and a controlled fermentation process. Unless you have experience with winemaking, it may be difficult to replicate the exact flavor and quality of commercial cooking sherry.
That being said, you can make a rough approximation of cooking sherry at home by mixing a dry white wine with a small amount of brandy or other fortified wine. You can also add a pinch of salt and a squeeze of lemon juice to give it a similar flavor profile. However, keep in mind that the result may not be identical to commercial cooking sherry.
Is cooking sherry gluten-free?
Most cooking sherries are gluten-free, as they are made from grapes and do not contain any gluten-containing ingredients. However, it’s always best to check the label or consult with the manufacturer to confirm. Some cooking sherries may be processed in facilities that also handle gluten-containing ingredients, which could lead to cross-contamination.
If you have a gluten intolerance or sensitivity, it’s essential to choose a cooking sherry that is certified gluten-free. You can also consider using a gluten-free alternative, such as a gluten-free wine or a gluten-free cooking wine substitute.
Can I use cooking sherry in desserts?
While cooking sherry is often associated with savory dishes, it can also be used in desserts to add a rich, depth of flavor. Sherry is a common ingredient in many traditional desserts, such as trifle and fruitcake. It pairs particularly well with sweet ingredients like chocolate, caramel, and dried fruit.
When using cooking sherry in desserts, it’s essential to balance it with other ingredients to avoid an overpowering flavor. Start with a small amount and adjust to taste, as sherry can be quite strong. You can also try using a sweeter sherry, such as a cream sherry or a Pedro Ximénez, to add a richer flavor to your desserts.