What about the alcohol?
Whether alcohol remains in a finished dish, and how much, depends on the cooking method.When foods are cooked under high heat for a long period of time, such as soups and stews, the majority of the alcohol evaporates out. Pure alcohol boils at 173 degrees F., a lower temperature than water (212 degrees F.). Thus, you will find that recipes intending for some of the alcohol to remain will have instructions to add the alcohol near the end of the cooking process so it will not boil out. Obviously, uncooked recipes will retain the vast majority of the alcohol.
Some may be worried about serving a dish cooked with alcohol to a child, yet alcohol is a naturally-occurring substance in many foods, particularly fruits with a high sugar content such as very ripe apples.
Keep in mind that the amount used in a recipe is usually very minimal and is spread out over a large volume of food, comparatively-speaking. It is a personal decision, of course. Still, it is a good idea for those on anti-abuse medication for alcohol problems to avoid foods cooked with alcohol.
Tequila Cooking Tips
I have selected a variety of tequila recipes for you to try. Some will retain more alcohol than others, such as marinades, vinaigrettes, and uncooked desserts. Use your best judgement based on the cooking method and length of cooking time when considering your guests or consider alcohol substitutions.Alcohol has a lower freezing point than water, so you may wish to think twice about adding a little extra kick of alcohol to frozen desserts as it will not freeze properly.
There is no need to buy an entire large bottle of tequila just for a recipe. The small single serving size (like those used on airlines) is right for most recipes and available at most liquor stores.
More About Tequila and Tequila Recipes
• Tequila Cooking Tips• What is the difference between mezcal and tequila? FAQ
• Tequila History
• Alcohol Substitution Chart
• Alcohol Burn-Off Chart
• Tequila Recipes
Cooking with Tequila Photo © 2008 Peggy Trowbridge Filippone, licensed to About.com, Inc.
Cookbooks
| • | The Tequila Cook Book |
| • | Tequila : The Spirit of Mexico |
| • | Tequila : A Traditional Art of Mexico |
| • | Mesa Grill Guide to Tequila |
| • | More Cookbooks |
