Tips For Pairing Wine With Food
It is generally considered that there are two main ways of pairing wine and food. First, wine can become an ingredient in the preparation of a meal. Second, it can be done by drinking and enjoying wine with the food we eat. Of course, the first activity should always follow the second to provide maximum enjoyment! And, of course, one can always participate in both activities at the same time providing an ideal combination of food and wine.
Enjoy Wine With Your Meal
Good wine will improve digestion, contribute to the flavor of the food and, in the case of red wine, assist in good health. There are several theories as to which wines best combine with particular foods. However, my suggestion is that if it tastes right, it is right. While some gourmets may argue with this, there seems to be little downside in pairing wine and food in this manner.
Cooking With Wine
The Italians and French are masters of combining food with wine. Both these cuisines make extensive use of wines in preparing meals from appetizers to sauces to desserts.
Pairing wine and food like this avoids any alcoholic taste in the dish as bringing the wine to the boil removes the alcohol.
An important rule when cooking with wine is never to cook with a wine that you don’t want to drink. This can mean opening a bottle of wine just for the recipe you are planning but the flavor boost to your dinner is worth it. Do not be tempted to cook with a wine that has been sitting open in the fridge for the last week. If you wouldn’t drink it, don’t cook with it. You’ll find more ideas for cooking with wine, how to store wine and how to taste wine at Wine Cellar Secrets.
