18 Decadent Recipes with Red Wine Infused Elegance

18 Decadent Recipes with Red Wine Infused Elegance

There’s something undeniably sophisticated and indulgent about cooking with red wine. Whether you’re looking to elevate a classic dish or create a romantic dinner for two, the rich flavors and deep colors of red wine can add an unparalleled level of luxury to any meal. In this article, we’ll be exploring 18 decadent recipes that showcase the versatility and majesty of red wine in the kitchen. From hearty stews and braises to elegant desserts and sauces, these dishes are sure to impress even the most discerning palates.

In our first recipe, Red Wine Braised Short Ribs, we’ll show you how to create fall-off-the-bone tender short ribs that are infused with the deep flavors of Cabernet Sauvignon. And for dessert lovers, don’t miss our recipe for Red Wine Chocolate Cake, which combines the richness of dark chocolate with the velvety smoothness of red wine.

Red Wine Braised Short Ribs

This classic recipe yields tender, fall-off-the-bone short ribs smothered in a rich and flavorful red wine sauce. Perfect for a special occasion or cozy night in.

Ingredients:

– 4-6 short ribs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season short ribs with salt, pepper, and thyme.
3. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear short ribs until browned, about 5 minutes per side. Remove from pot and set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium, add onion and garlic, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes.
5. Add red wine, beef broth, and tomato paste. Stir to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
6. Return short ribs to the pot, cover with a lid, and transfer to the preheated oven.
7. Braise for 2 1/2 hours or until meat is tender and falls off the bone.

Cooking Time: 2 1/2 hours

Coq au Vin with Red Wine

Classic Coq au Vin with Red Wine Recipe

This classic French dish is a hearty and flavorful stew that combines tender chicken, mushrooms, onions, and bacon in a rich red wine broth.

Ingredients:

– 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 6 slices of bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 medium onions, sliced
– 3 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake)
– 1 cup red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot work well)
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 300°F.
2. In a large Dutch oven, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove with slotted spoon.
3. Add onions and mushrooms to pot; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add chicken, red wine, chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper to pot. Stir to combine.
5. Cover pot and transfer to preheated oven. Braise for 1 hour.
6. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.

Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Red Wine Mushroom Risotto

This rich and flavorful risotto is perfect for a cold winter night. Arborio rice, sautéed mushrooms, and bold red wine come together to create a satisfying and comforting dish.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 2 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1/4 cup red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add mushrooms; cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add Arborio rice; cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add red wine; stir until absorbed.
5. Add broth, one cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
6. Cook for 18-20 minutes or until rice is tender.
7. Stir in butter; season with salt and pepper.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Red Wine Chocolate Cake

Moist and flavorful, this red wine chocolate cake is perfect for satisfying any sweet tooth. With the depth of flavor from the red wine and dark chocolate, it’s sure to become a new favorite.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup red wine (such as Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon)
– 1/2 cup melted dark chocolate chips
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine milk, eggs, red wine, melted chocolate, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until smooth.
5. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes

Beef Bourguignon with Red Wine

This iconic dish originated from the Burgundy region of France, where rich flavors and tender meat come together to create a hearty, comforting meal. With this recipe, you’ll be able to recreate the classic Beef Bourguignon at home.

Ingredients:

– 2 pounds beef short ribs or chuck roast
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups red wine (Burgundy or Merlot)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 teaspoon tomato paste
– 1 carrot, peeled and chopped
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 1 bay leaf
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh thyme, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the beef on all sides, then remove from pot.
3. Add onion, garlic, and carrot; cook until softened.
4. Add red wine, broth, tomato paste, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Return the beef to the pot, cover, and transfer to the preheated oven.
6. Cook for 2-1/2 hours or until meat is tender.
7. Remove from oven, garnish with thyme, and serve.

Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours

Red Wine Poached Pears

A classic dessert that combines sweet pears with the bold flavors of red wine, perfect for a special occasion or a cozy evening at home.

Ingredients:

– 4 ripe but firm pears (such as Bartlett or Anjou)
– 1 cup red wine (Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon work well)
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cinnamon stick
– 2 cloves

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Peel, core, and halve the pears.
3. In a large saucepan, combine the red wine, sugar, cinnamon stick, and cloves.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Add the pear halves to the saucepan, making sure they’re covered with the red wine mixture.
6. Cover the saucepan with a lid and transfer it to the preheated oven.
7. Poach the pears for 20-25 minutes, or until they’re tender when pierced with a fork.

Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes

Red Wine Spaghetti Bolognese

This rich and flavorful spaghetti bolognese recipe uses red wine to add depth and complexity to the classic Italian dish. A perfect comfort food for a chilly evening, this recipe serves 4-6 people.

Ingredients:

– 500g minced beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, finely chopped
– 1 can (28oz) crushed tomatoes
– 125ml red wine
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and black pepper
– 12 oz spaghetti
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the minced beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add onion, garlic, and carrot; cook until vegetables are softened.
4. Add crushed tomatoes, red wine, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Bring sauce to a simmer and let cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors have melded together and the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Serve spaghetti with bolognese sauce and top with Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Red Wine Marinated Steak

Elevate your steak game with this rich and flavorful red wine marinade recipe.

Ingredients:

– 1.5-2 pounds flank steak or skirt steak
– 1 cup red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, or Malbec work well)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large ziplock bag, combine red wine, olive oil, garlic, soy sauce, and thyme.
2. Add the steak to the marinade, turning to coat evenly. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight (up to 24 hours).
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat (400°F). Remove steak from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Grill steak for 4-5 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Cooking Time: 8-12 minutes total, depending on steak thickness and grill temperature.

Red Wine Onion Jam

Elevate your favorite dishes with this rich and flavorful condiment made by simmering caramelized onions in red wine. Perfect for topping burgers, sandwiches, or using as a side dish.

Ingredients:

– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 cup red wine (such as Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon)
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat.
2. Add the sliced onions and cook for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are dark golden brown and caramelized.
3. Add the red wine, brown sugar, and balsamic vinegar to the saucepan. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the jam has thickened slightly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Let cool before transferring to an airtight container.

Cooking Time: approximately 1 hour

Red Wine Sangria with Fresh Fruits

This refreshing twist on traditional sangria combines the bold flavors of red wine with the sweetness of fresh fruits, perfect for warm weather gatherings and outdoor parties.

Ingredients:

– 1 bottle (750ml) of red wine (Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon work well)
– 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 1 cup diced peaches
– 1 cup diced pineapple
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 sprigs of fresh mint leaves
– Soda water (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large pitcher, combine the red wine and sugar. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
2. Add the mixed berries, peaches, and pineapple to the pitcher.
3. Cover the pitcher and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, add the fresh mint leaves and stir gently.
5. Serve chilled, with a splash of soda water if desired.

Cooking Time: None, as this recipe is served cold.

Enjoy your delicious Red Wine Sangria with Fresh Fruits!

Red Wine Reduction Sauce

This rich and flavorful sauce is perfect for elevating pasta dishes, grilled meats, or vegetables. With a simple reduction of red wine, butter, and herbs, you’ll be able to add depth and complexity to your favorite recipes.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot work well)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. In a small saucepan, bring the red wine to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Reduce the heat to low and let the wine cook for about 20 minutes, or until it has reduced by half and thickened slightly.
3. Remove the saucepan from the heat and whisk in the butter until melted.
4. Stir in the chopped thyme and rosemary.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Red Wine and Garlic Roasted Chicken

Elevate your roasted chicken game with this rich and flavorful recipe that combines the boldness of red wine and pungency of garlic. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home.

Ingredients:

– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot work well)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the chicken, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic and red wine.
4. Stuff the cavity of the chicken with the garlic-wine mixture.
5. Drizzle the outside of the chicken with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Red Wine Lentil Stew

A hearty and flavorful stew perfect for a chilly evening, this Red Wine Lentil Stew is made with tender lentils, rich red wine, and aromatic spices.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, peeled and chopped
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup red wine
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
3. Add the lentils, crushed tomatoes, red wine, vegetable broth, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.

Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes

Red Wine Cherry Compote

Elevate your next dinner party or special occasion with this rich and flavorful compote, perfect for serving alongside pork chops, roasted meats, or as a topping for ice cream.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
– 1/2 cup red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot work well)
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 tablespoon orange liqueur (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine cherries, red wine, and sugar.
2. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and butter until smooth.
4. Stir the cornstarch mixture into the cherry mixture and continue simmering for an additional 5 minutes, or until thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in orange liqueur, if using.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Red Wine Caramelized Onion Tart

This tart is a perfect combination of sweet and savory flavors, with caramelized onions cooked in red wine and baked to perfection. It’s perfect as an appetizer or side dish for your next dinner party.

Ingredients:

– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup red wine (such as Cabernet Sauvignon)
– 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. In a large skillet, cook onions over medium heat in olive oil until caramelized, stirring occasionally. Add red wine, balsamic vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Spread the onion mixture evenly over the puff pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
5. Fold the edges of the pastry up to form a crust.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves and serve warm.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Red Wine Glazed Pork Chops

Elevate your dinner game with these rich and flavorful pork chops glazed in a reduction of red wine, perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.

Ingredients:

– 4 pork chops (1-1.5 inches thick)
– 1 cup red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot work well)
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small saucepan, combine red wine, honey, olive oil, garlic, and mustard. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the glaze thickens.
3. Season pork chops with salt and pepper.
4. Place pork chops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush both sides with the red wine glaze.
5. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
6. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving, garnished with fresh thyme leaves if desired.

Cooking Time: 25-27 minutes

Red Wine Beef Stew with Root Vegetables

A hearty and flavorful stew that’s perfect for a chilly evening. This recipe combines tender beef, root vegetables, and rich red wine to create a comforting dish.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound beef chuck roast, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 large potato, peeled and chopped
– 1 cup red wine (such as Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon)
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat the oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and potato. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
4. Add the red wine, beef broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 2-3 hours or until the beef is tender.

Cooking Time: 2-3 hours

Red Wine Infused Dark Chocolate Truffles

Elevate your truffle game with this decadent recipe that combines the bold flavors of red wine and dark chocolate.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup (200g) high-quality dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1/2 cup (120ml) red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot work well)
– 1 tablespoon heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting

Instructions:

1. In a small saucepan, heat the red wine over low heat until it reduces by half, stirring occasionally.
2. Remove from heat and stir in the dark chocolate chips until melted and smooth.
3. Stir in the heavy cream and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld.
5. Roll the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter. Dust with confectioners’ sugar.
6. Refrigerate for an additional 30 minutes before serving.

Cooking Time: None

Summary

Indulge in the rich flavors of red wine with these 18 decadent recipes that elevate your cooking to new heights. From hearty braised short ribs and coq au vin to sweet treats like red wine chocolate cake, each dish showcases the versatility of this iconic ingredient. Discover how to add depth and complexity to classic dishes like beef bourguignon, spaghetti bolognese, and lentil stew with a splash of red wine. Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner or a special occasion dessert, these recipes are sure to impress.