Shrimp Scampi is a delicious and classic Italian dish that’s simple to make and packed with flavor. The dish typically involves cooking shrimp in garlic butter and white wine sauce and serving it over pasta. However, many people avoid using white wine for various reasons, such as dietary restrictions or the unavailability of wine. Fortunately, there are several substitutes for white wine that you can use in Shrimp Scampi. In this article, we’ll explore the seven best substitutes for white wine in Shrimp Scampi.
What is White Wine?
White wine, unlike red wine, does not have contact with the grape skins during the fermentation process. Instead, grape pulps are fermented into alcohol. White wines have a wide range of colors because the grape skins impart their pigments into the wine rather than the grape pulps.
Yellows, greens, and golds of various tones may fall under this category. The technique of production and the amount of sugar added to the final product may account for the wide range of styles available.
Dry white wine is the most popular cooking wine because it has a neutral taste and may be utilized to achieve a harmonious overall dish balance.
Best White Wine Substitutes in Shrimp Scampi
1. Chicken or Vegetable Broth
Chicken or vegetable broth is an excellent substitute for white wine in Shrimp Scampi. It adds a rich flavor and savory taste to the dish without altering the original taste. Broth is also readily available, making it a great substitute for those who can’t find white wine. To use broth as a substitute, use the same amount of broth as the white wine called for in the recipe.
2. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is an excellent substitute for white wine in Shrimp Scampi. It has a sweet and tangy flavor that can add depth to the dish. However, be careful not to add too much vinegar, as it can overpower the dish. Use about one tablespoon of vinegar for every half cup of white wine called for in the recipe.
3. Lemon Juice
Lemon juice is an excellent substitute for white wine in Shrimp Scampi. It adds a tangy and acidic flavor that complements the garlic and butter. Lemon juice also adds a refreshing taste to the dish, making it perfect for summer. To use lemon juice as a substitute, use the same amount of lemon juice as the white wine called for in the recipe.
4. White Grape Juice
White grape juice is an excellent substitute for white wine in Shrimp Scampi. It has a sweet and tangy flavor that complements the garlic and butter. White grape juice also adds a fruity taste to the dish, making it perfect for those who prefer a sweeter taste. To use white grape juice as a substitute, use the same amount of white grape juice as the white wine called for in the recipe.
5. Vermouth
Vermouth is an excellent substitute for white wine in Shrimp Scampi. It has a complex flavor that includes herbal, floral, and bitter notes. Vermouth also has a slightly higher alcohol content than other substitutes on this list. To use vermouth as a substitute, use the same amount of vermouth as the white wine called for in the recipe.
6. Rice Vinegar
Rice vinegar is an excellent substitute for white wine in Shrimp Scampi. It has a sweet and mild flavor that complements the garlic and butter. Rice vinegar also adds a light and refreshing taste to the dish, making it perfect for summer. To use rice vinegar as a substitute, use the same amount of rice vinegar as the white wine called for in the recipe.
7. Tomato Juice
Tomato juice is an excellent substitute for white wine in Shrimp Scampi. It adds a rich and savory taste to the dish, and the acidity of the tomatoes complements the garlic and butter. Tomato juice also adds a slight sweetness to the dish, making it perfect for those who prefer a sweeter taste. To use tomato juice as a substitute, use the same amount of tomato juice as the white wine called for in the recipe.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Shrimp Scampi is a classic Italian dish that typically involves cooking shrimp in garlic butter and white wine sauce and serving it over pasta. However, many people avoid using white wine for various reasons, such as dietary restrictions or the unavailability of wine.
Fortunately, there are several substitutes for white wine that you can use in Shrimp Scampi. The seven best substitutes are chicken or vegetable broth, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, white grape juice, vermouth, rice vinegar, and tomato juice.
Each of these substitutes adds a unique flavor profile to the dish, allowing you to customize the recipe to your liking. So, the next time you make Shrimp Scampi, don’t let the absence of white wine stop you from enjoying this delicious dish. Try one of these substitutes instead and savor the flavor.