Incorporating alcohol into cooking is a time-honoured technique that adds depth and complexity to dishes. Whether it’s wine, beer, or spirits, cooking alcohols can enhance the flavour profile of your food, bringing out the best in both sweet and savoury recipes. If you're looking to experiment with alcohol in the kitchen, here are five easy recipes that will help you bring a touch of sophistication to your meals without requiring advanced culinary skills.

1. Coq au Vin

This classic French dish, coq au vin, is a great example of how wine can transform a simple meal into something special. The slow-cooking process allows the wine to infuse the chicken with rich, savoury flavours, resulting in a hearty and comforting dish.

Ingredients:

• 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)
• 1 bottle of red wine (a dry wine like Burgundy or Pinot Noir works best)
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 1 bay leaf
• 2 sprigs of thyme
• 200g mushrooms, sliced
• 100g bacon lardons
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons of butter

Method:

1. In a large pot, cook the bacon lardons until crispy. Remove and set aside.
2. Brown the chicken thighs in the same pot. Once browned, remove and set aside.
3. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and carrots to the pot and cook for a few minutes until softened.
4. Pour in the wine, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any flavourful bits. Add the chicken, bacon, bay leaf, and thyme.
5. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 45 minutes, until the chicken is tender.
6. In a separate pan, sauté the mushrooms in butter until golden. Add them to the pot and cook for an additional 10 minutes.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve with mashed potatoes or crusty bread.

2. Beer-Battered Fish

Beer batter is a simple and effective way to create a light, crispy coating for fish. The carbonation in the beer makes the batter airy, resulting in a perfectly crunchy exterior. This dish works well with cod, haddock, or any white fish.

Ingredients:

• 4 pieces of white fish fillets (about 150g each)
• 1 cup of plain flour
• 1 teaspoon of baking powder
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 1 cup of cold beer (a pale ale or lager works best)
• Vegetable oil for frying
• Lemon wedges for serving

Method:

1. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. Gradually pour in the beer, stirring to form a smooth batter. The consistency should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
3. Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or pot to 180°C.
4. Dip the fish fillets into the batter, coating them evenly, then carefully lower them into the hot oil.
5. Fry for 4-5 minutes, or until the batter is golden and crisp, and the fish is cooked through.
6. Remove from the oil and drain on paper towels. Serve with lemon wedges and tartar sauce.

3. Rum-Soaked Fruit Salad

This simple yet indulgent dessert combines fresh fruit with the warmth of rum, creating a sweet and aromatic treat. The rum helps to intensify the natural flavours of the fruit while adding a rich complexity.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of mixed berries (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries)
• 1 banana, sliced
• 1 apple, chopped
• 1 tablespoon of rum (dark or spiced rum works well)
• 1 tablespoon of honey
• Fresh mint leaves for garnish

Method:

1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed berries, banana, and apple.
2. Drizzle the rum and honey over the fruit and toss gently to coat.
3. Cover and let the fruit marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
4. Before serving, garnish with fresh mint leaves. This dessert is perfect for a summer evening or a casual dinner.

4. Mushroom Risotto with White Wine

White wine is a wonderful addition to risotto, as it adds acidity and complexity to the creamy dish. Paired with earthy mushrooms, it makes for a hearty, satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of Arborio rice
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 250g mixed mushrooms, sliced
• 1/2 cup of dry white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc)
• 4 cups of vegetable broth, kept warm
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 2 tablespoons of butter
• 50g grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Method:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pan. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until softened.
2. Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and become tender.
3. Stir in the Arborio rice and cook for 2-3 minutes, until lightly toasted.
4. Pour in the white wine and stir until it has mostly evaporated.
5. Gradually add the warm vegetable broth, one ladle at a time, stirring constantly. Wait until most of the liquid is absorbed before adding more broth.
6. Continue cooking and stirring for about 18-20 minutes, until the rice is creamy and al dente.
7. Stir in the butter and Parmesan cheese, and season with salt and pepper. Serve warm.

5. Spiced Mulled Wine

A warm and comforting drink, mulled wine is perfect for the colder months. The combination of red wine and aromatic spices creates a fragrant, soothing beverage.

Ingredients:

• 1 bottle of red wine
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 3 cloves
• 1 orange, sliced
• 2 tablespoons of honey or sugar
• 1/4 cup of brandy (optional)

Method:

1. In a large pot, combine the wine, cinnamon sticks, cloves, orange slices, and honey or sugar.
2. Warm over low heat, stirring occasionally, for 20-30 minutes. Do not allow it to boil.
3. If desired, add the brandy and stir to combine.
4. Strain the wine to remove the spices and serve warm in mugs.