Is Cooked Wine Halal

Is Cooked Wine Halal? Understanding the Halal Status of Cooking With Wine 

 

Ever wondered what beer-battered seafood, Tiramisu, and apple vinegar have in common? The answer lies in their recipes—they all contain Wine. For most #InsanHalal, the understanding is clear: Wine is considered haram (forbidden) for Muslims to consume. But what does Islamic teachings, including Hadith or the sayings of Prophet Muhammad SAW, say about cooking with Wine? Let's explore the halal status of using Wine in cooking and recipes that include it.

 

Cooking With Wine in Recipes:

During the pandemic, cookbooks became a kitchen staple, and millions turned to food networks and online platforms to hone their culinary skills. Social media platforms like YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok exploded with cooking content, leading to increased sales of cooking supplies, ingredients, and yes, even Wine for cooking.

 

As more individuals began to ask, "What should I do if a recipe calls for Wine beverages?" various options emerged. Some choose to skip such recipes entirely, while others opt to omit the Wine component. Thankfully, there are excellent substitutes for cooking with Wine. Here are some examples:

 

- Substitute cactus or aloe juice for tequila.

- Use chicken broth, tomato juice, or even apple juice instead of beers.

- Replace champagne with sparkling apple juice.

- Strong coffee can be a substitute for Kahlua and coffee liqueurs.

- Apple juice works well as a substitute for brandy.

- Swap white grape juice with ginger ale or white wine with chicken broth.

- Molasses can replace almond extract and pineapple juice in rum recipes.

- For dishes calling for red wine, try chicken broth, beef broth, grape juice, or tomato juice. Some chefs also blend grape juice with chicken or beef broth.

 

 

Fatwa MUI on Products Containing Wine:

Ethanol finds extensive use in various manufacturing processes as a solvent, extractor, and sanitizing agent. The MUI fatwa No. 10 of 2018 concerning Food and Beverage Products Containing Wine/Ethanol clarifies that only ethanol produced from khamr (intoxicants) is impermissible for halal products due to its impurity. However, other forms of ethanol, such as synthetic ethanol or non-khamr fermented industrial products, are acceptable.

 

According to this Fatwa, the ethanol content in the final food product is not restricted as long as it is medically harmless. A beverage product may contain under 0.5% ethanol content if it poses no medical risk. Furthermore, the Fatwa addresses the ethanol content in intermediate products like flavors and seasonings, allowing them if their use in the final product meets specific criteria.

 

Debunking the Myth: "Wine Will Cook Off"

Some believe that Wine in dishes cooks off entirely, especially during flambe techniques. However, studies have shown otherwise. A 1992 USDA study revealed that after flaming Wine, about 75% of it remains in the pan. Further research conducted by various organizations indicates that Wine does not completely burn off even after extended cooking periods.

 

Research on Nabidh (Fruit Juice):

A Hadith from Sahih Muslim Book 23 No 4971 mentions Nabidz, a beverage consumed by Prophet Muhammad SAW. Modern studies have examined the fermentation of grapes, apples, and dates, showing ethanol concentrations ranging from 0.32% to 0.76%.

 

Conclusion:

For halal-conscious consumers, it is advised to avoid cooking with Wine altogether. Bringing Wine into the home for cooking purposes is also discouraged for various reasons. When dining out, Muslims are encouraged to inquire about Wine in dishes and refrain from consuming it. Servers might claim that Wine has cooked off, but studies suggest otherwise.

 

In essence, Wine is not suitable for cooking from a halal perspective. Muslims are encouraged to explore the wide array of Wine-free cooking options available, ensuring that their meals align with their beliefs and values.

 

By understanding the guidelines and seeking knowledge, #InsanHalal can navigate the culinary world while upholding their faith and principles.

 

So Question was: is cooked wine halal?

Answer: Yes