If you’ve ever been told that cooking “burns off” all the alcohol in food, I’m here to tell you that’s not entirely true. As a restaurant owner, I understand how important it is to know exactly what’s in your food, especially when it comes to what your kids are eating.
One of our most popular dishes and a household classic is a shrimp scampi dish, made with linguini, sautéed shrimp, garlic and a white wine sauce. It’s flavorful, aromatic and a classic Italian staple. While too much wine can overwhelm a dish, the right amount can enhance the flavor, adding depth and complexity. This is how wine can elevate recipes like cioppino, mussels or even linguini clams.
Parents often ask: is it safe for children to eat food prepared with wine?
Let’s break it down. When you cook with wine, not all of the alcohol burns off. While it’s true that alcohol has a lower boiling point than water and begins to evaporate at around 173 degrees Fahrenheit, the process isn’t instant. Alcohol molecules bond with water and food molecules, so they don’t completely evaporate right away. According to research by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the amount of alcohol that remains depends on the cooking method and duration. For example:
• Flambéing (like in some desserts) leaves about 75% of the alcohol.
• Adding wine to a boiling liquid and simmering for 15 minutes removes about 40% of the alcohol.
• Cooking a dish for 2.5 hours reduces the alcohol content by about 95%.
In the case of dishes like shrimp scampi, which involve quick pan sauces, a small trace of alcohol may still be present when the food is served. However, we’re talking about very small quantities, certainly not enough to cause any intoxication or harm. It’s less alcohol than what you’d find in a bottle of vanilla extract or even some ripe fruits.
Pan size matters
The size of the pan you use can also impact how much alcohol remains in the dish. Recipes prepared in smaller pans tend to retain more alcohol because there’s less surface area for it to evaporate. On the other hand, larger pans allow more alcohol to burn off due to increased exposure to heat and air.
Stirring during the cooking process can also help reduce alcohol content, as it encourages more consistent evaporation throughout the dish.
That said, some parents may prefer to avoid serving dishes with even trace amounts of alcohol to their children. Fortunately, there are plenty of flavorful alternatives to wine in cooking. In a dish such as shrimp scampi, a touch of chicken broth, lemon juice, or extra butter can easily be swapped in to deliver that same richness and brightness without any alcohol content.
When in doubt, ask
Food should be about comfort, community and choice. If you’re unsure about a dish at any restaurant, don’t hesitate to ask how wine or spirits are used during cooking. For dishes that simmer or roast for extended periods, the alcohol content is generally very low. But it’s always smart to ask if you're feeding little ones.
Ultimately, your child’s safety and your peace of mind are what matter most. Whether you choose a traditional wine reduction or an alcohol-free alternative, there are plenty of ways to enjoy flavorful meals that align with your values.
For individuals in recovery, those who are pregnant or breastfeeding, or anyone who avoids alcohol for health, religious or personal reasons, opting for alcohol-free substitutions is always a thoughtful and respectful choice.
Editor’s note: Phoenix native Jason Brody is owner of Brody’s Italian. He holds a business management degree from ASU, and began working in the hospitality industry at age 15. Please send your comments to AzOpinions@iniusa.org. We are committed to publishing a wide variety of reader opinions, as long as they meet our Civility Guidelines.
