Clever ways to use leftover wine so nothing goes to waste

If you’re a lover of wine, you might ask why on earth wine would ever go to waste in your house. But maybe after a party of get-together, the odd half a bottle of wine is left on the counter overnight. Instead of wasting it, it can be used for something useful, like elevating a meal. From cooking hacks to treats, leftover wine can be more versatile than you might imagine.

Boost your cooking

Leftover wine can add new dimensions to simple meals. Add a splash of red wine when you sauté mushrooms or add some white wine to a creamy chicken dish or seafood pasta. If you’re one for slow-cooked recipes or stews, add a few tablespoons for colour and complexity.

Make simple syrups for desserts or cocktails

What’s easier than boiling wine and sugar together? Just make sure it’s equal parts, simmer until it thickens slightly, and you have a simple syrup that pairs well with ice cream, fruit salads, cheesecake or festive cocktails.
TIP: To add some personality and flair, add some cinnamon or star anise

Create refreshing ice cubes

You don’t want to be opening a new bottle every time you feel like adding it to your dishes. Reduce wastage by pouring white or red wine into ice trays and freezing. The cubes are perfect for enriching soups, adding depth to risottos or deglazing pans. And of course, they’re excellent for adding to sangrias or spritzers going into the festive season.

Create refreshing ice cubes

Wine contains bacteria, and when exposed to oxygen, the sugars and alcohol turn to acetic acid – perfect for vinegar. So trust the process: just transfer to a glass jar with a splash of apple cider vinegar to continue the process. Cover with a breathable cloth and let it sit for a few weeks. You’ll be left with a tangy vinegar to add to salad dressings or marinades.

Poach seasonal fruit

For an elegant touch, poach peaches, pears, figs or plums in wine. You can add sugar, citrus and spices, and simmer gently. It’s an easy dessert ideal for entertaining or a weekend treat.

Prepare a mulled wine base for later

We’re in the warmer months, so it’s all about refreshing cocktails, but you can use leftover wine now, freeze it with cloves, orange zest, cinnamon and honey in a freezer-safe container. When the chilly weather comes, simply warm it up and top with juice or fresh wine.

Mix a quick cleaning solution

The alcohol content in white wine helps dissolve grime, so it works great as a glass cleaner. So don’t throw out that bottle of wine that’s past its drinking date – just spray a little bit and wipe.

This post appeared first on Woman and Home Magazine.