🍯 Sauces & Condiments

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.

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Quick Answer

Dry white wine is the best substitute for sherry in French onion soup. Use a 1:1 ratio and add a pinch of sugar to mimic sherry's complexity and slight sweetness.

Best Substitutes

Dry White Wine

1:1

Most similar flavor profile to sherry with good acidity

Best for:

French onion soupwhen you want similar wine flavormost soup applicationsdeglazing the pan

Closest substitute for French onion soup

Dry Vermouth

1:1

Fortified wine with herbal complexity similar to sherry

Best for:

French onion soupwhen you want herbal complexityFrench cookingrich soups

More herbal than sherry, adds complexity

Dry Madeira Wine

1:1

Fortified wine with rich, complex flavor

Best for:

French onion soupwhen you want depth of flavorrich soupswhen you want complexity

Richer and more complex than sherry

White Wine + Brandy

3:1 wine to brandy

Homemade fortified wine alternative

Best for:

French onion soupwhen you want to replicate sherry's fortified naturerich soupswhen you have both ingredients available

Replicates sherry's fortified wine nature

Apple Cider Vinegar + Water + Sugar

1/2 cup vinegar + 1/2 cup water + 1 tsp sugar

Non-alcoholic alternative with acidity and sweetness

Best for:

non-alcoholic French onion soupwhen you need acidityvegetarian soupswhen alcohol isn't desired

Non-alcoholic option, more acidic than sherry

Red Wine

1:1

Richer alternative with more intense flavor

Best for:

French onion soupwhen you want richer flavorwhen you want more intensityhearty soups

Richer flavor than sherry, may add color

Cooking Tips

💡Add the sherry substitute after the onions are fully caramelized
💡Let the alcohol cook off before adding the broth
💡Sherry adds depth and complexity to French onion soup
💡The quality of your substitute wine will greatly affect the final soup
💡Taste as you go and adjust the sweetness to match your preference
💡For authentic French onion soup, try to find actual sherry if possible

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best substitute for sherry in French onion soup?

Dry white wine is the best substitute for sherry in French onion soup. Add a pinch of sugar to mimic sherry's slight sweetness and complexity.

Can I use vermouth instead of sherry in French onion soup?

Yes, dry vermouth works well as a substitute for sherry in French onion soup. It has a more herbal flavor but provides similar complexity and depth.

Is red wine a good substitute for sherry in French onion soup?

Yes, red wine can work as a substitute for sherry in French onion soup, but it will add more color and intensity to the soup. It's a good option if you want a richer flavor.

Can I make French onion soup without any alcohol?

Yes, you can use apple cider vinegar with water and sugar as a non-alcoholic substitute. The soup will have a different flavor profile but will still be delicious.

When should I add the sherry substitute to French onion soup?

Add the sherry substitute after the onions are fully caramelized and before adding the broth. Let the alcohol cook off before adding the liquid.

Summary

Find the best substitutes for sherry in French onion soup. Learn about dry white wine, vermouth, Madeira, and other alternatives with proper ratios and cooking tips.