What is Shaoxing Wine and Why do I Need One?
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What is Shaoxing rice wine?
Shaoxing rice wine - also known as Shao Hsing or Shaoshing Huadiao wine (绍兴花雕酒) - is made from fermented, glutinous rice. Traditionally it is enjoyed as a drink at the start of a meal, sometimes served alongside peanuts and other snacks.
For fans of Chinese cooking, Shaoxing wine is a core ingredient that has no substitute - the amber liquid has rich sherry notes and a dry, sharp taste with a distinctive fruity flavour which enhances flavours without being overpowering.
Where does the name come from?
It takes its name from the Shaoxing region of Zhejiang province in China, where the wine has been produced since the 5th century.
Do I need Shaoxing wine and how to cook with it?
If you’re a fan of Chinese food and the Chinese food you’ve been making at home feels like it’s missing something, then absolutely YES! It’s as unthinkable as cooking Italian or French food without wine, or Japanese food without sake and mirin.
Shaoxing rice wine has many applications in Chinese cooking, including marinades, soups and to flavour the stuffing for potsticker dumplings. It is also a key ingredient in dishes such as 'Chairman Mao's Red Braised Pork' and 'Drunken Chicken'.
How to store Shaoxing wine?
Simply put it in a cool, dark place and keep it sealed. It will keep in the pantry for up to 6 months, in our experience. If you don’t use it very often, you can refrigerate it to keep it longer.
Where to buy Shaoxing wine in Estonia?
At A&A Asian Food Store, we provide different kinds of Shaoxing wine, as well as many other authentic Chinese cooking sauces. You can buy Shaoxing wine directly from us in Tallinn, or, we can send it with careful packaging to any part in Estonia via delivery companies.
Note: Shaoxing Wine is alcoholic - 13.5%-14.5% ABV.