Where Can You Buy Cooking Sherry?
Cooking sherry, a type of fortified wine, is a staple ingredient in many recipes, especially in European and American cuisines. Its sweet and savory flavor adds depth and complexity to dishes, from sauces and marinades to braising liquids and desserts. However, finding cooking sherry in stores can be a challenge, especially with the rise of online shopping and changing consumer preferences.
Direct Answer: Where Can You Buy Cooking Sherry?
You can buy cooking sherry at a variety of retailers, both online and in-store. Here are some common places where you can find cooking sherry:
- Gourmet Food Stores: Gourmet food stores like Williams-Sonoma, Sur La Table, and specialty food shops often carry a selection of cooking sherrys from different producers.
- Wine and Spirits Stores: Wine and spirits stores like Total Wine, BevMo!, and wine shops typically carry a range of cooking sherrys, including fortified wines and dessert wines.
- Grocery Stores: Many grocery stores carry cooking sherry in their international or specialty foods sections. You can also check the wine or liquor aisle for cooking sherry.
- Online Retailers: Online retailers like Amazon, Walmart, and specialty food stores often carry a wide selection of cooking sherrys, including rare and hard-to-find varieties.
- Direct from the Producer: Some wine producers and distilleries sell their cooking sherrys directly to consumers through their websites or tasting rooms.
Types of Cooking Sherry
Cooking sherry comes in a range of styles and varieties, including:
- Fortified Wine: Fortified wine is a blend of wine and brandy or other spirits. Cooking sherry is often made from a blend of white wines, such as Chardonnay and Riesling, and fortified with brandy.
- Dry Sherry: Dry sherry is a type of sherry that is not sweetened with sugar or other sweeteners. It has a crisp, dry flavor and is often used in savory dishes.
- Sweet Sherry: Sweet sherry is a type of sherry that is sweetened with sugar or other sweeteners. It has a rich, sweet flavor and is often used in desserts and sweet dishes.
- Sauternes: Sauternes is a type of sweet sherry that is made from grapes affected by botrytis, a fungus that causes the grapes to shrivel and concentrate their sugars. Sauternes is often used in desserts and sweet dishes.
Tips for Choosing the Right Cooking Sherry
When choosing a cooking sherry, consider the following tips:
- Flavor Profile: Choose a cooking sherry with a flavor profile that suits your recipe. If you’re making a savory dish, choose a dry or fortified wine. If you’re making a sweet dish, choose a sweet or Sauternes-style sherry.
- Sugar Content: If you’re watching your sugar intake, choose a dry or low-sugar cooking sherry.
- Acidity: Cooking sherry with high acidity can help to balance the flavors in your dish. Look for cooking sherrys with high acidity levels.
- Price: Cooking sherry can range in price from under $10 to over $50. Consider your budget and the quality of the sherry when making your selection.
Common Uses for Cooking Sherry
Cooking sherry is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, including:
- Sauces and Marinades: Cooking sherry can be used to make a variety of sauces and marinades, from BBQ sauce to chicken marinade.
- Braising Liquids: Cooking sherry can be used as a braising liquid for meats, vegetables, and grains.
- Desserts: Cooking sherry can be used in desserts like cheesecake, creme brulee, and flan.
- Glazes and Syrups: Cooking sherry can be used to make a variety of glazes and syrups, from caramel sauce to fruit glaze.
Conclusion
Cooking sherry is a versatile and flavorful ingredient that can add depth and complexity to a variety of dishes. Whether you’re making a savory sauce or a sweet dessert, cooking sherry is a great addition to your pantry. By considering the type of cooking sherry you need, the flavor profile you prefer, and the common uses for cooking sherry, you can find the perfect cooking sherry for your recipe.