🐟 Seafood

White Wine Substitute for Shrimp Scampi: for Cooking

Discover the best substitutes for white wine in shrimp scampi. Find non-alcoholic and alcoholic alternatives that work perfectly in this classic Italian dish.

Quick Answer

The best substitutes for white wine in shrimp scampi are chicken broth, vegetable broth, or white wine vinegar mixed with water. For non-alcoholic options, use broth with a splash of lemon juice.

Best Substitutes

Chicken Broth

1:1

Chicken broth provides the liquid base and depth of flavor. Add lemon juice to mimic the acidity of white wine.

Best for:

shrimp scampipasta dishesrisottosoups

Add 1 tablespoon lemon juice per cup of broth

Vegetable Broth

1:1

Vegetable broth works well for vegetarian versions. Add white wine vinegar and sugar to mimic the wine's acidity and sweetness.

Best for:

vegetarian dishesshrimp scampipasta dishessoups

Add 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar and 1 teaspoon sugar

White Wine Vinegar + Water

1:3 (vinegar to water)

White wine vinegar diluted with water provides the acidity and flavor profile of white wine without the alcohol.

Best for:

shrimp scampipasta dishesmarinadessauces

Mix 1 part vinegar with 3 parts water

Dry Vermouth

1:1

Dry vermouth is an excellent substitute for white wine. It has similar flavor profile and alcohol content.

Best for:

shrimp scampipasta dishesrisottosauces

Use dry vermouth as a direct substitute

Apple Cider Vinegar + Water

1:4 (vinegar to water)

Apple cider vinegar diluted with water provides acidity and subtle sweetness similar to white wine.

Best for:

shrimp scampipasta dishesmarinadessauces

Mix 1 part vinegar with 4 parts water

Cooking Tips

  • 💡Always add acid (lemon juice or vinegar) when using broth as a substitute
  • 💡Reduce the liquid by half to concentrate flavors, just like with wine
  • 💡Add a pinch of sugar to balance acidity when using vinegar
  • 💡Use low-sodium broth to control salt levels
  • 💡For best results, use homemade broth or high-quality store-bought
  • 💡Add a splash of lemon juice at the end for brightness

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best non-alcoholic substitute for white wine in shrimp scampi?

Chicken broth with lemon juice is the best non-alcoholic substitute. Use 1 tablespoon lemon juice per cup of broth to mimic the wine's acidity.

Can I use water instead of white wine in shrimp scampi?

Yes, but add lemon juice and a pinch of sugar to mimic the wine's acidity and sweetness. The dish will be less flavorful but still work.

Is dry vermouth a good substitute for white wine?

Yes, dry vermouth is an excellent substitute. It has similar flavor profile and alcohol content, making it a direct replacement.

How do I make shrimp scampi without wine?

Use chicken broth with lemon juice, or white wine vinegar diluted with water. Add garlic, butter, and herbs as usual.

Can I use apple juice instead of white wine?

Apple juice is too sweet for shrimp scampi. Use chicken broth with lemon juice or white wine vinegar diluted with water instead.

Summary

Find the best substitutes for white wine in shrimp scampi. Discover non-alcoholic and alcoholic alternatives including chicken broth, vermouth, and vinegar solutions.