Shaoxing wine is a magical ingredient that can transform ordinary dishes into extraordinary culinary experiences. Known for its rich and complex flavors, it adds depth and warmth to every bite, leaving you wanting more.
Sticky Shaoxing Wine Chicken

Making General Tso’s Chicken At Home | But Better from Joshua Weissman
This Sticky Shaoxing Wine Chicken is a delight for your taste buds. Imagine tender chicken pieces glistening in a sweet and savory glaze, with the deep, caramel-like notes of Shaoxing wine. It’s an irresistible combination that will have you licking your fingers clean.
The secret to this dish is the balance between the soy sauce, honey, and Shaoxing wine. As the chicken simmers, the sauce thickens to create a sticky coating that clings to each piece. The wine not only enriches the flavor but also tenderizes the meat, making it incredibly juicy.
What makes this recipe special is its simplicity. With just a few ingredients, you can create a dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough for a dinner party. Serve it over steamed rice, and you’ve got a meal that’s both comforting and elegant.
Shaoxing Wine Marinated Pork Belly

Crispy Roast Pork Belly (Cantonese Style) from Food52
If you’re a fan of pork belly, this recipe will be your new go-to. The Shaoxing wine marinade infuses the meat with a rich, aromatic flavor that penetrates every layer of fat and lean. It’s a flavor explosion in every bite.
The marinade is a blend of Shaoxing wine, garlic, ginger, and soy sauce, which work together to tenderize and flavor the pork. After marinating, the pork belly is slow-cooked until it’s melt-in-your-mouth tender, with a crispy top layer that adds a delightful crunch.
This dish is popular because it celebrates the natural richness of pork belly while adding a unique twist with the wine. The combination of textures and flavors makes it a standout dish that will surely impress your guests. Pair it with a fresh cucumber salad to balance out the richness.
Soy Sauce and Shaoxing Wine Duck
Duck with Honey, Soy, and Ginger from Allrecipes
Rating: 4.6. Total Time: 40 min.
Red-braised Duck in Sauce from My Chinese Home Kitchen
Total Time: 1 hr 30 min.
Roasted Braised Duck from The Woks of Life
Rating: 4.6. Total Time: 1 hr 30 min.
Duck is a meat that’s often associated with luxurious dining, and this recipe takes it to another level. The blend of soy sauce and Shaoxing wine creates a rich, savory sauce that complements the natural flavor of the duck beautifully.
In this recipe, the duck is first marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, star anise, and a hint of sugar. This combination not only enhances the duck’s flavor but also helps to keep it moist and tender during cooking. The result is a dish that’s bursting with flavor, with a hint of sweetness and a depth that’s unmatched.
What makes this dish special is the way the Shaoxing wine enhances the duck’s flavor profile. It’s a perfect example of how a single ingredient can elevate a dish to new heights. Serve it with steamed buns or fragrant jasmine rice for a meal that’s truly unforgettable.
Shaoxing Wine Braised Beef
Braising beef in Shaoxing wine results in a dish that’s both hearty and full of flavor. The wine adds a complexity to the beef that makes it taste like it’s been simmering for hours, even if it hasn’t.
This recipe is all about slow cooking. The beef is seared for a rich crust, then slowly braised with Shaoxing wine, soy sauce, ginger, and garlic. As it cooks, the wine infuses the beef with its deep, aromatic flavor, making each bite a taste sensation.
The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility. You can serve it with mashed potatoes for a Western twist or with rice for a more traditional pairing. Either way, it’s a comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a chilly winter evening or a casual family dinner.
Shaoxing Wine Steamed Fish
For a lighter option, try this Shaoxing Wine Steamed Fish. It’s a delicate dish where the subtle flavors of the wine enhance the freshness of the fish, creating a meal that’s both healthy and delicious.
The preparation is simple yet effective. Fresh fish is steamed with Shaoxing wine, ginger, and green onions, allowing the flavors to meld together without overpowering the fish. The wine adds a hint of sweetness and umami, elevating the overall taste.
This recipe is popular for its simplicity and elegance. It’s a perfect choice when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of Shaoxing wine and fresh fish creates a dish that’s light, flavorful, and sure to please.
Pro Tricks for Amazing Shaoxing Wine Dishes

Shaoxing Drunken Chicken (Zuiji, 醉鸡) from The Mala Market Recipes
Choose the Right Shaoxing Wine
When selecting Shaoxing wine, opt for the traditional variety used for cooking, not the sweeter versions meant for drinking. The right wine will enhance your dishes with its rich, complex flavors.
Balance is Key
Shaoxing wine is a powerful ingredient, so use it wisely. Balance its strong flavors with ingredients like soy sauce, sugar, or ginger to ensure your dish is perfectly seasoned.
Marinate for Maximum Flavor
For meats, marinate with Shaoxing wine for at least an hour before cooking. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and juicy dish.