Can you substitute rice wine vinegar for wine?

You can sometimes substitute rice wine vinegar for wine in cooking, but it's not always a perfect swap. Here's a breakdown:

When it might work:

* In stir-fries: Rice wine vinegar's acidity and sweetness can be a good substitute for the wine used in many stir-fry sauces.

* In marinades: The vinegar's tang can help tenderize meat and add flavor, similar to how wine would.

* When you need a bit of acidity: Rice wine vinegar can provide a subtle tang to dishes that need a little zing.

When it's not ideal:

* For the flavor of wine: Rice wine vinegar doesn't have the same complex flavors as wine. If the recipe relies on the specific flavor of wine, it won't be a good substitute.

* When alcohol is needed for cooking: Wine is often used in cooking because it evaporates, leaving behind its flavor and reducing the sauce. Rice wine vinegar won't provide this function.

* For baking: Rice wine vinegar is too acidic for most baking applications.

General Tips for Substitution:

* Start with less vinegar: Rice wine vinegar is more concentrated than wine, so use less than the amount of wine called for in the recipe.

* Adjust for sweetness: Some rice wine vinegars are sweeter than others. You may need to add a bit of sugar to balance out the acidity.

* Taste as you go: It's always a good idea to taste your dish as you cook and adjust the seasoning as needed.

Ultimately, the best way to determine if rice wine vinegar is a good substitute for wine is to consider the specific recipe and your own taste preferences.