What's the Best Substitute for Sherry?
Whether you're out of Sherry or looking for a healthier alternative, finding the right substitute can save your recipe. Find the best alternatives to sherry for cooking and deglazing In this guide, we'll explore the best substitutes that work in most recipes and help you achieve similar results.
Quick Answer
Dry white wine with a bit of sugar is the best substitute for sherry.
Best Substitutes for Sherry
Dry White Wine
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- most recipes
- deglazing
- sauces
- when you want similar wine flavor
Description
Similar acidity and depth to sherry
Most similar substitute, add sugar for sweetness
Dry Red Wine
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- hearty dishes
- when you want richer flavor
- red meat dishes
- when you want more intensity
Description
Richer, more intense flavor than sherry
Richer flavor than sherry, may add color
Apple Cider Vinegar + Water
Ratio
1/2 cup vinegar + 1/2 cup water
Best For
- when you need acidity
- deglazing
- when you don't have wine
- vegetarian dishes
Description
Acidic alternative with similar tanginess
More acidic than sherry, add sugar for balance
White Wine Vinegar + Water
Ratio
1/2 cup vinegar + 1/2 cup water
Best For
- when you want similar acidity
- deglazing
- sauces
- when you want wine flavor
Description
Similar acidity to sherry with wine flavor
Similar acidity to sherry, add sugar for sweetness
Chicken Broth + White Wine Vinegar
Ratio
3/4 cup broth + 1/4 cup vinegar
Best For
- when you want umami and acidity
- soups
- sauces
- when you want depth
Description
Umami-rich alternative with acidity
Adds umami depth, similar acidity to sherry
How to Choose the Right Substitute
When choosing a substitute for Sherry, consider the recipe's requirements for taste, texture, and cooking method. Think about whether you need something that mimics the original exactly or if a different but complementary flavor would work. Also consider dietary restrictions and availability of ingredients.
Cooking Tips
Sherry is a fortified wine with a distinctive flavor
It adds depth and complexity to sauces and soups
There are different types of sherry - dry and sweet
Dry sherry works best for savory dishes, sweet sherry for desserts
Sherry can be used for deglazing pans and adding depth to sauces
Store sherry in the refrigerator after opening to maintain quality
Always taste and adjust seasonings when using substitutes
Consider the cooking method - some substitutes work better in certain applications
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Topics
Cream Sherry Substitute for Baking: for Desserts Guide
Cream Sherry Substitute for Cooking: for Savory Dishes
Non-Alcoholic Cream Sherry Substitute - No Alcohol
Cream Sherry Substitute for Trifle: for Classic Dessert
Sherry Substitute for Baking: Best Alternatives for Desserts
Find the best substitutes for sherry in baking and desserts, including sweet wine alternatives, fruit juices, and other options with proper ratios.
Sherry Substitute for Chinese Cooking: Best Options
Find the best substitutes for sherry in Chinese cooking, including Shaoxing wine, dry white wine, and other alternatives with proper ratios and cooking techniques.
Cooking Sherry Substitute: Best Alternatives for Recipes
Find the best substitutes for cooking sherry in recipes, including dry white wine, vermouth, and non-alcoholic alternatives with proper ratios.
Sherry Substitute for Cooking: Best Alternatives
Find the best substitutes for sherry in cooking, including dry white wine, vermouth, and other alternatives with proper ratios and cooking techniques.
Dry Sherry Substitute: Best Alternatives for Cooking
Find the best substitutes for dry sherry in cooking, including dry white wine, vermouth, and other alternatives with proper ratios and cooking tips.
Sherry Substitute for French Onion Soup: Best Alternatives
Find the best substitutes for sherry in French onion soup, including dry white wine, vermouth, and other alternatives with proper ratios and cooking tips.
Sherry Substitute for Gazpacho: for Spanish Soup Guide
Find the best substitutes for sherry in gazpacho, including red wine vinegar, balsamic vinegar, and other alternatives with proper ratios for authentic Spanish flavor.
Non-Alcoholic Sherry Substitute for Cooking
Find the best non-alcoholic substitutes for sherry in cooking, including vinegar-based alternatives, fruit juices, and other alcohol-free options.
Sherry Vinegar Substitute: Best Alternatives
Find the best substitutes for sherry vinegar in cooking, including red wine vinegar, balsamic vinegar, and other alternatives with proper ratios.
Sherry Wine Substitute: for Cooking and Drinking Guide
Find the best substitutes for sherry wine in cooking and drinking, including dry white wine, vermouth, and other fortified wine alternatives.