Pairing Wine With Food
Thursday, May 6th, 2010Most people suggest that there are two main ways of pairing wine and food. First, wine can become a major component in the preparation of a meal. And second, it can be done by choosing a wine to accompany the food you are planning on eating. Of course, the first activity should always be followed by the second for maximum wine and food enjoyment! And you can always enjoy both activities at the same time to provide the ideal combination wine and food.
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, I’d like to suggest that if it tastes right, it is right. While some connoisseurs 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 cuisines make extensive use of both red and white wines in meal preparation 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 lots of suggestions for cooking with wine, how to store wine and how to taste wine at www.WineCellarSecrets.com
