When it comes to cooking with wine, many of us are familiar with using dry white or red wines to add depth and complexity to our dishes. However, there’s another type of wine that’s often overlooked but can add a rich, velvety texture and a deep, nutty flavor to our cooking: cream sherry. In this article, we’ll explore the world of cooking with cream sherry, including its history, characteristics, and uses in the kitchen.
A Brief History of Sherry Wine
Before we dive into the world of cooking with cream sherry, let’s take a brief look at the history of sherry wine. Sherry is a type of fortified wine that originates from the Jerez region in Spain. The production of sherry dates back to the 8th century, when the Moors introduced viticulture to the region. Over the centuries, sherry production evolved, and by the 18th century, it had become a popular export to the UK and other parts of Europe.
Sherry wine is made from white grapes, primarily Palomino Fino, Pedro Ximénez, and Moscatel. The grapes are harvested, fermented, and then fortified with a neutral grape spirit to increase the wine’s strength and longevity. The resulting wine is then aged in a solera system, where it’s blended with older wines to create a consistent flavor profile.
What is Cream Sherry?
Cream sherry is a type of sweet sherry that’s made from a blend of wines, including Pedro Ximénez and Moscatel. It’s characterized by its rich, velvety texture and deep, nutty flavor, with notes of caramel, vanilla, and dried fruit. Cream sherry is often used as a dessert wine, but it’s also a versatile ingredient that can be used in cooking.
Characteristics of Cream Sherry
So, what makes cream sherry so special? Here are some of its key characteristics:
- Rich, velvety texture: Cream sherry has a smooth, luxurious texture that’s perfect for adding depth and complexity to sauces and braising liquids.
- Deep, nutty flavor: Cream sherry has a rich, nutty flavor that’s reminiscent of caramel, vanilla, and dried fruit.
- Sweetness level: Cream sherry is a sweet wine, but it’s not cloying or overpowering. It’s perfect for balancing the flavors in savory dishes.
- Acidity level: Cream sherry has a moderate acidity level, which makes it perfect for cutting through rich and fatty flavors.
Cooking with Cream Sherry
Now that we’ve explored the characteristics of cream sherry, let’s talk about how to use it in cooking. Cream sherry is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, from savory sauces and braising liquids to desserts and sweet treats.
Savory Dishes
Cream sherry is a great addition to savory dishes, particularly those that feature rich and fatty flavors. Here are some ideas for using cream sherry in savory cooking:
- Braising liquids: Add a splash of cream sherry to your braising liquids for a rich, depth of flavor.
- Sauces and gravies: Use cream sherry to add a touch of sweetness and depth to your sauces and gravies.
- Marinades: Add cream sherry to your marinades for a boost of flavor and moisture.
Recipe: Cream Sherry Braised Short Ribs
Here’s a recipe that showcases the rich, velvety texture and deep, nutty flavor of cream sherry:
Ingredients:
- 4 short ribs
- 1/4 cup cream sherry
- 1/4 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
- In a large Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Brown the short ribs on all sides, then remove them from the pot and set them aside.
- Add the diced onion to the pot and cook until it’s softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Add the cream sherry, beef broth, and browned short ribs to the pot. Cover the pot with a lid and transfer it to the preheated oven.
- Braise the short ribs for 2 1/2 hours, or until they’re tender and falling off the bone.
- Remove the pot from the oven and stir in the sliced mushrooms and dried thyme. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve the short ribs with the rich, creamy sauce spooned over the top.
Desserts and Sweet Treats
Cream sherry is also a great addition to desserts and sweet treats. Here are some ideas for using cream sherry in sweet cooking:
- Cakes and tortes: Use cream sherry to add moisture and flavor to your cakes and tortes.
- Fruit desserts: Pair cream sherry with fresh or dried fruit for a sweet and indulgent dessert.
- Ice cream and frozen treats: Add a splash of cream sherry to your ice cream or frozen treats for a boost of flavor and texture.
Recipe: Cream Sherry Poached Pears
Here’s a recipe that showcases the sweet, indulgent flavor of cream sherry:
Ingredients:
- 4 ripe pears
- 1/2 cup cream sherry
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions:
- In a large saucepan, combine the cream sherry, granulated sugar, water, cinnamon stick, and ground nutmeg. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Peel, core, and halve the pears. Add them to the poaching liquid and simmer for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until they’re tender and caramelized.
- Remove the pears from the poaching liquid and let them cool to room temperature. Serve them with the cream sherry poaching liquid spooned over the top.
Conclusion
Cream sherry is a versatile ingredient that can add depth, complexity, and richness to a variety of dishes. Whether you’re using it in savory sauces and braising liquids or sweet desserts and treats, cream sherry is a great addition to any kitchen. So next time you’re cooking up a storm, be sure to reach for the cream sherry and unlock its secrets.
What is Cream Sherry and how is it different from other types of Sherry?
Cream Sherry is a type of sweet Sherry wine that originates from the Jerez region in Spain. It is made from a blend of Palomino and Pedro Ximénez grapes, which are aged using a solera system. This system involves transferring the wine from one barrel to another, gradually blending the wines to create a consistent flavor profile. The resulting wine is rich, smooth, and velvety, with a deep amber color and a sweet, nutty flavor.
The main difference between Cream Sherry and other types of Sherry is its sweetness level. While other Sherries, such as Fino and Manzanilla, are dry and crisp, Cream Sherry is sweet and rich. This makes it an ideal ingredient for cooking, as it adds a depth of flavor and a touch of sweetness to dishes. Additionally, Cream Sherry is often aged for a longer period than other Sherries, which gives it a more complex and developed flavor profile.
What are some common uses for Cream Sherry in cooking?
Cream Sherry is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, from soups and sauces to desserts and marinades. One of the most common uses for Cream Sherry is in cooking sauces and braising liquids. It adds a rich, velvety texture and a deep, nutty flavor that enhances the overall flavor of the dish. Cream Sherry is also often used in desserts, such as trifle and cheesecake, where its sweetness and richness add a luxurious touch.
In addition to its use in sauces and desserts, Cream Sherry can also be used as a marinade for meats and vegetables. The acidity in the wine helps to break down the proteins and add flavor to the ingredients. Cream Sherry can also be used as a flavor enhancer in soups and stews, adding a depth of flavor and a touch of sweetness. Overall, Cream Sherry is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a wide range of dishes.
How do I store Cream Sherry, and how long does it last?
Cream Sherry is a fortified wine, which means that it has a longer shelf life than other types of wine. Once opened, Cream Sherry can last for several months when stored properly. It is best to store Cream Sherry in a cool, dark place, such as a pantry or cupboard. The bottle should be kept upright and tightly sealed to prevent the wine from oxidizing.
The shelf life of Cream Sherry depends on the storage conditions and the age of the wine. Generally, Cream Sherry can last for 2-3 years when stored properly. However, some high-quality Cream Sherries can last for 5-10 years or more. It’s worth noting that Cream Sherry is a wine that improves with age, so it’s worth storing it for a few years to allow the flavors to mature.
Can I use Cream Sherry in place of other types of wine in recipes?
While Cream Sherry can be used in place of other types of wine in some recipes, it’s not always a direct substitute. The sweetness and richness of Cream Sherry make it a unique ingredient that can alter the flavor profile of a dish. If a recipe calls for a dry white wine, such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, it’s best to use a dry Sherry instead of Cream Sherry.
However, if a recipe calls for a sweet wine, such as Port or Madeira, Cream Sherry can be a good substitute. It’s also worth noting that Cream Sherry can be used in place of other types of fortified wine, such as Marsala or Vermouth, in some recipes. Ultimately, the choice of wine depends on the specific recipe and the desired flavor profile.
What are some popular dishes that use Cream Sherry as an ingredient?
Cream Sherry is a popular ingredient in many classic dishes, including Beef Stroganoff, Chicken Cacciatore, and Creamy Mushroom Sauce. It’s also often used in desserts, such as Trifle and Cheesecake. In addition to these classic dishes, Cream Sherry can be used in a wide range of recipes, from soups and stews to marinades and sauces.
One of the most popular uses for Cream Sherry is in cooking sauces and braising liquids. It adds a rich, velvety texture and a deep, nutty flavor that enhances the overall flavor of the dish. Cream Sherry is also often used in combination with other ingredients, such as butter and cream, to create a rich and indulgent sauce.
Is Cream Sherry suitable for vegetarians and vegans?
Cream Sherry is generally suitable for vegetarians, as it is made from grapes and does not contain any animal products. However, some Cream Sherries may be clarified using animal products, such as gelatin or egg whites, which makes them unsuitable for vegans.
It’s worth noting that many Cream Sherries are now vegan-friendly, as winemakers are increasingly using plant-based fining agents instead of animal products. If you’re a vegan, it’s best to check the label or contact the winemaker to confirm that the Cream Sherry is vegan-friendly.
Can I drink Cream Sherry on its own, or is it only used for cooking?
While Cream Sherry is often used as an ingredient in cooking, it can also be enjoyed on its own as a dessert wine. In fact, Cream Sherry is a popular dessert wine in many parts of the world, particularly in the UK and Spain. It’s often served chilled, either on its own or paired with sweet treats, such as cakes and pastries.
When drinking Cream Sherry on its own, it’s best to serve it in small glasses, as it’s a rich and sweet wine. It’s also worth noting that Cream Sherry is a wine that improves with age, so it’s worth storing it for a few years to allow the flavors to mature. Whether you enjoy it on its own or use it in cooking, Cream Sherry is a versatile and delicious wine that’s worth exploring.