Amidst the stress of the election and the upcoming holiday season, it can be beneficial to explore how wine may contribute to your wellbeing.
Wine as a mindful addition to your wellness routine
Cooking with Wine and a Glass to Sip
Cooking can be a calming ritual, especially with wine in the mix! It’s how Scott and I relax after a hard day of running our company. Pour yourself a glass of the wine you’re cooking with—perhaps a Barbera or Rose—and allow yourself to be fully absorbed in the process. The aromas, textures, and sips along the way make for a truly relaxing and sensory experience.
Cooking with Wine for Healthful Recipes
Here are a few ideas to enhance flavor while keeping the dish light and nutritious.
.Marinades and Dressings: Wine makes an excellent base for marinades and salad dressings, adding acidity and tenderness to proteins or enhancing fresh greens without heavy oils. Try a white wine marinade for fish or chicken with herbs, citrus zest, and olive oil. Or, use a splash of rosé in vinaigrettes for a fruity, vibrant touch that brightens salads without extra calories.
Poaching Liquid for Proteins: To infuse fish, chicken, or even vegetables with flavor, poach them in a light wine broth instead of oil or butter. A dry white wine with some vegetable broth, herbs, and spices can impart a delicate taste, perfect for a light, nutritious meal.
Vegetable Sauté with Wine Reduction: Instead of heavy sauces, use a wine reduction to enhance the natural sweetness of vegetables. A quick splash of wine while sautéing mushrooms, onions, or zucchini can draw out flavors. Let the wine reduce to concentrate the taste, then season lightly for a nutrient-rich side dish.
Wine-Steamed Shellfish: For an elegant yet healthy approach to seafood, try steaming mussels, clams, or shrimp in white wine with garlic, herbs, and a dash of lemon juice. The wine adds an aromatic depth, while the steam keeps the dish light.
Flavorful Grains: Cook grains like quinoa, farro, or couscous with some wine in the cooking liquid. Use a light, crisp white wine to add brightness without overpowering the grain’s natural flavor, creating a base for salads or sides that are both nutritious and flavorful.
Wine-Based Fruit Compote or Sauce: Create a simple fruit compote with red or rosé wine, fresh berries, and minimal added sugar. Simmering the wine down concentrates its flavor, creating a lightly sweet topping for yogurt, oatmeal, or grilled chicken without adding heavy cream or butter.
One of our favorite desserts is pears oven-poached in Riesling. The Jana Yakima Riesling is known for its floral accents and aromas, with hints of honey and pear. It’s simple to make and delicious.