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Best Substitutes for White Wine (Cooking)

Adds brightness, acidity, and delicate flavor to sauces, seafood, and risotto.

5 substitute options🧴 Liquids & Acids🌱 Vegan options🌾 GF options

Substitutes by Use Case

general

Chicken broth + white wine vinegar🌾 GFBest for: Risotto, seafood, pan sauces

⚖️¾ cup broth + ¼ cup white wine vinegar

Best savory substitute. Adds body and acidity.

Apple juice + white wine vinegar🌱 Vegan🌾 GFBest for: Seafood, chicken

⚖️¾ cup juice + ¼ cup vinegar

Vegan option. Slightly sweet. Works in seafood and chicken dishes.

White grape juice🌱 Vegan🌾 GFBest for: Risotto, cream sauces

⚖️1:1

Good flavor match. Slightly sweeter. Works in cream sauces and risotto.

Vermouth🌱 Vegan🌾 GFBest for: Seafood, pasta, pan sauces

⚖️1:1

Fortified wine. Slightly herbal. Works excellently in white wine applications.

Lemon juice + water🌱 Vegan🌾 GFBest for: Seafood, light sauces

⚖️2 tbsp lemon juice + rest water

Good for seafood. Lighter body but bright acidity.

💡 Expert Tips

✓Dry white wine is preferred for cooking — avoid sweet wines in savory applications
✓Vermouth is often better than cheap white wine — it keeps longer too
✓For risotto, warm broth is more important than perfect wine substitute

❌ Do NOT Use

✗Red wine (completely changes the dish color and flavor)
✗Sweet Riesling or Moscato (too sweet for savory cooking)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best substitute for white wine (cooking)?

Chicken broth + white wine vinegar — use ¾ cup broth + ¼ cup white wine vinegar. Best savory substitute. Adds body and acidity.

Can I substitute white wine (cooking) in baking?

Yes. The best options for baking are: Chicken broth + white wine vinegar and Apple juice + white wine vinegar. Always match the ratio exactly for best results.