Rice Cooking Wine (Shao Xing)

What Is Rice Cooking Wine?

Rice cooking wine is a fermented condiment made from glutinous rice, and it plays a vital role in East and Southeast Asian cuisines. Known for its slightly sweet, umami-rich flavor, this versatile ingredient enhances everything from stir-fries to marinades and soups. Whether you're making Chinese, Japanese, or Korean dishes, rice cooking wine brings balance, depth, and authentic character to your recipes.

The Flavor Profile of Rice Cooking Wine

With notes of sweetness, acidity, and subtle complexity, rice cooking wine adds brightness and aroma without overpowering other ingredients. It helps tenderize meat, removes undesirable odors, and enhances savory flavors—especially when combined with soy sauce, ginger, or garlic. It’s the backbone of many beloved Asian dishes.

Popular Types of Rice Cooking Wine

Different regions have their own variations. Shao Xing wine from China is perhaps the most well-known and prized for its nutty, slightly caramelized flavor. Mirin from Japan is sweeter and lower in alcohol, often used in teriyaki sauces and glazes. Korea’s cheongju is more refined and mild, often used in stews and braises.

How to Use Rice Cooking Wine in Everyday Cooking

Rice cooking wine is essential for building flavor. Add it to marinades for chicken, beef, or tofu to improve tenderness and taste. Splash it into stir-fries or noodle dishes for instant umami depth. It’s also perfect in braised dishes, dumpling fillings, or as a deglazing liquid in Asian-inspired sauces.

Alcohol Content and Cooking Use

While rice cooking wine does contain alcohol, most of it cooks off during heating. In many cases, a cooking-specific version with added salt is used to avoid alcohol regulations in grocery stores. If you're looking for a more authentic flavor, opt for unsalted versions sold in Asian markets.

Substitutes and Tips

If you don’t have rice cooking wine on hand, dry sherry or a mix of white wine and sugar can work in a pinch. However, nothing fully replicates the delicate umami and sweetness of the real thing. Store rice wine in a cool, dark place and refrigerate after opening to preserve its quality.

An Essential for Authentic Asian Cuisine

From silky sauces to aromatic stir-fries, rice cooking wine elevates your dishes with just a splash. It's a pantry essential for anyone who loves the flavors of Asia and wants to cook with more authenticity and depth.

Unlock the essence of Asian cuisine—one splash of rice wine at a time.