10 Ways to use left-over Wine

There are few things in life as satisfying as a nice bottle of wine. But what do you do when you have leftover wine? You don’t want to just throw it away, do you? In this blog post, we will discuss 10 different ways that you can use leftover wine. Some of these methods are classic, while others may be new to you. But all of them are delicious and easy to make! So let’s get started!

1. Make a Reduction Sauce

One of the best ways to use up leftover wine is to make a reduction sauce. Reduction sauces are made by simmering wine until it evaporates, leaving behind a concentrated and flavorful sauce. They can be used to top meats or vegetables, or as a dipping sauce.

2. Make a Sangria

Sangria is a refreshing and fruity drink that is perfect for summer gatherings. To make sangria, simply combine wine with fruit juice, fresh fruit, and sparkling water. You can also add in some brandy or rum for an extra kick.

3. Cook with It

Wine can be used in many different recipes, from stews and sauces to braised meats and vegetable dishes. When cooking with wine, be sure to use a variety that you would actually drink, as the flavor will be amplified when cooked.

4. Make Wine Jelly

Wine jelly is a delicious and elegant way to use up leftover wine. Simply combine wine with sugar and gelatin, then cook until thickened. Wine jelly can be served on toast or crackers, or used as a glaze for meats or desserts.

5. Make Mulled Wine

Mulled wine is a warming and fragrant drink that is perfect for chilly evenings. To make mulled wine, simply combine wine with spices such as cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. You can also add in some orange juice or brandy for additional flavor.

6. Use It as a Marinade

Wine makes an excellent marinade for meats and vegetables alike. The acidity in wine helps to tenderize meat, while the flavor infuses both meat and vegetables with deliciousness. Simply soak your food in wine for at least 30 minutes before cooking.

7. Make Wine Vinegar

Wine vinegar is a staple in many kitchens, and it’s easy to make at home! Simply place leftover wine in a glass jar and cover with a cloth secured with a rubber band. Allow the mixture to sit at room temperature for 2-3 weeks, then strain and enjoy!

8. Use It as Fabric Stain Remover

Wine stains are notoriously difficult to remove from clothing; however, using wine as a fabric stain remover can actually be quite effective! Simply pour some leftover wine onto the stain and blot with a clean cloth until the stain is lifted. Repeat as necessary until the stain is gone completely.

9. Make Wine Ice Cubes

Wine ice cubes are a great way to enjoy your leftover wine. Simply pour the remaining wine into an ice cube tray and freeze. These can then be used in sangrias, cocktails, or even just as an addition to iced tea or lemonade.

10. Use it as a Dressing

Wine can be used to make a delicious dressing for salads and vegetables. Simply combine some leftover wine with olive oil, mustard, garlic, and herbs. Shake well before serving over your favorite vegetables or salad greens.

10 Useful Recipes Using Wine

1. Red Wine Braised Beef Short Ribs

These beef short ribs are cooked in a red wine sauce until they are fall-off-the-bone tender. They make an impressive yet easy to prepare meal that is perfect for a special occasion.

2. Red Wine Mushroom Sauce

This rich and flavorful sauce is perfect for serving over steak, chicken, or fish. It can also be used as a pasta sauce or as a dipping sauce for bread.

3. Pan Seared Salmon with White Wine Sauce

Salmon is pan seared and then simmered in a white wine sauce with shallots and garlic. This dish is simple to make yet elegant and full of flavor.

4. Chicken Marsala

Chicken breasts are cooked in a Marsala wine sauce with mushrooms and onions. This classic Italian dish is easy to make and always a hit with family and friends.

5. Braised Lamb Shanks with Red Wine

Lamb shanks are slow cooked in a red wine sauce until they are meltingly tender. This dish is perfect for a winter meal served with mashed potatoes or polenta.

6. Boeuf Bourguignon

This classic French dish features beef that is cooked in a red wine sauce with bacon, mushrooms, and onions. It is typically served with mashed potatoes or egg noodles.

7. Coq au Vin

Coq au vin is a French dish made with chicken that is cooked in red wine, bacon, mushrooms, and onions. It is typically served over rice or egg noodles.

8. Pork Tenderloin with Cranberry Wine Sauce

Pork tenderloin is roasted and then served with a cranberry wine sauce in this festive holiday dish. The pork can also be replaced with chicken or turkey breast if desired.

9. Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes

These mashed potatoes are flavored with roasted garlic and white wine for a delicious side dish that pairs well with almost any main course.

10. Poached Pears with Red Wine Sauce

These poached pears make a simple yet impressive dessert. They are simmered in a red wine syrup and served with ice cream or whipped cream for an indulgent treat.

Conclusion

Leftover wine can be used in a variety of different recipes, from main dishes and side dishes to sauces and desserts. From braising beef short ribs to poaching pears, there are plenty of ways to use up that last bit of wine! With these 10 creative ways to use leftover wine, you’ll never waste a drop again. Bon Appetit!

Related Article: Can you Mix Red and White Wine? And What Does it Taste Like?

FAQs

Can I make wine jelly with leftover wine?

Yes! Wine jelly is actually quite easy to make and is a great way to use up leftover wine. Simply combine equal parts of sugar and white or red wine in a saucepan over medium-high heat. Bring the mixture to a boil and then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20 minutes. Remove from heat and pour into sterilized jars, seal, and store in the refrigerator.

Can I use leftover wine to make a vinaigrette?

Yes! You can make a delicious vinaigrette with leftover wine. Simply combine 1 cup of olive oil, ¼ cup of red or white wine, 1 tablespoon of mustard, 1 teaspoon of sugar and salt to taste in a jar with a lid. Shake vigorously until all ingredients are combined and serve over your favorite salad.

Can I freeze leftover wine?

Yes! Leftover wine can be frozen for up to 6 months. Just make sure you pour the wine into an air-tight freezer-safe container before freezing. Thaw the frozen wine in the refrigerator and use within 3 days.

Can I substitute wine in recipes with other liquids?

Yes! If you don’t want to use wine in a recipe, you can substitute it with chicken or beef broth, apple cider vinegar, or even water. Just keep in mind that the flavor of the dish may be slightly different if you make these substitutions.