Shaoxing (Shao Hsing) Rice Wine

Shaoxing – or Shao Hsing – rice wine is made from fermented, glutinous rice. Traditionally it is enjoyed as a drink at the start of a meal in place of rice, but it is sometimes served alongside peanuts and other snacks. It takes its name from the Shaoxing region of Zhejiang, an eastern Chinese province, where the wine has been produced since the fifth century.

What is Shaoxing rice wine?

Shaoxing wine is one of the most famous varieties of huangjiu – traditional Chinese wines. Shaoxing rice wine is a core Chinese cooking ingredient which has no western substitute. The amber liquid has rich sherry notes and a dry, sharp taste with a distinctive fruity flavour which enhances flavours without being overpowering.

How do I cook with Shaoxing rice wine?

Shaoxing rice wine has many applications in Chinese cooking, including marinades, soups and the stuffing for potsticker dumplings. Shaoxing rice wine is also a key ingredient in dishes such as ‘Chairman Mao’s Red Braised Pork’ and ‘Drunken Chicken’.

How do I choose which Shaoxing rice wine to buy?

This Shaoxing rice wine contains only water, rice and wheat, so is suitable for both cooking and beverage uses. Also available is a Shaoxing cooking wine with added salt – this is only for cooking purposes and should not be drunk on its own.

Please note that Shaoxing Wine is alcoholic – 13.5%-14.5% ABV. Contains wheat & gluten.

Ingredients: Water 54.1%, rice 40.3%, wheat 5.6%.

CONTAINS ALCOHOL – ONLY AVAILABLE TO PURCHASE BY OVER 18s