What Can I Use as a Substitute for White Wine in Shrimp Scampi? 7 Tasty Options to Elevate Your Dish

Shrimp scampi is one of my favorite dishes The tender shrimp coated in garlic, butter, and white wine is simply divine But what if you don’t have white wine on hand when a shrimp scampi craving hits? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered!

As an avid home cook and food blogger, I’ve experimented with all kinds of substitutes for white wine in shrimp scampi While nothing can fully replicate the complex flavors of a good white wine, there are plenty of options that can still take your scampi to the next level

In this article, we’ll explore 7 tasty substitutes for white wine in shrimp scampi Whether you want to avoid alcohol, don’t have wine on hand, or just want to experiment with new flavors, these alternatives will ensure your shrimp scampi is still lip-smackingly delicious!

Why Use White Wine in Shrimp Scampi?

Before diving into substitutes, let’s first understand why white wine is typically used in shrimp scampi. Here are some of the key functions white wine performs:

• Acidity – White wine adds a bright acidity that balances the richness of the butter and prevents the dish from being too heavy or greasy.

• Flavor – White wine adds fruity, tart, and aromatic flavor notes that enhance the overall taste of the scampi. It also contributes to the sauce.

• Body – White wine helps thin out the butter sauce so it nicely coats the shrimp instead of being gloppy or clumpy.

• Alcohol – The alcohol in white wine brings out flavors in the ingredients and also cooks off, leaving behind complexity.

Any substitute we use should try to mimic some of these qualities, even if it can’t fully replace the white wine. Now let’s look at 7 tasty options!

7 Best Substitutes for White Wine in Shrimp Scampi

1. Chicken or Vegetable Broth

Chicken or vegetable broth is my top recommendation for replacing white wine in shrimp scampi. Broth has a similar body and saltiness as white wine, which helps balance the richness of the dish.

For best results, use broth with a light, clean flavor. Swanson’s low-sodium chicken broth or Pacific organic vegetable broth work very well. Use the broth in the same amount you would white wine.

Broth adds lovely savory background flavors. The only thing it can’t replicate is the acidity of wine, so consider adding a squeeze of lemon too.

2. Clam Juice

If you want to really amplify the seafood flavors, clam juice is an amazing substitute for white wine in shrimp scampi. Made from the natural juices inside clams, clam juice packs a briny, ocean-like punch.

Use clam juice in the same amount you would white wine. The natural salts and acids in the clam juice mimic some of wine’s effects while also complementing the shrimp beautifully.

Just be careful of using a clam juice that’s very thick and cloudy – it may make the sauce gloppy. I suggest a clear bottled clam juice like Crown Prince.

3. Apple Cider Vinegar

Vinegar is my go-to replacement when I want to add a good acidity kick without wine. Apple cider vinegar works exceptionally well in shrimp scampi.

Use apple cider vinegar in a 1:1 ratio to replace white wine. The bright, tangy acidity helps cut through the butter sauce, leaving the dish fresh and vibrant.

Because vinegar is very acidic, start with just 1-2 tsp and adjust amounts to taste. Cider vinegar also adds a hint of sweet apple flavor.

4. Lemon Juice

Similar to vinegar, fresh lemon juice is an easy way to inject acidity, brightness, and citrus flavor to your scampi.

Lemon juice works best combined with another substitute like broth or clam juice. Use 2-3 tablespoons lemon juice per 1/4 cup of wine. The lemon brightens up broth or clam juice nicely.

Go easy on the lemon to start – too much can make the scampi very tart. Let your tastebuds be the judge.

5. Low-Sodium Seafood Stock

For the ultimate ocean essence in your scampi, use seafood stock instead of white wine. Made from shrimp, fish, and shellfish, seafood stock amplifies the natural sweet brininess of the dish.

Look for low-sodium seafood stock and use it in a 1:1 ratio for white wine. The stock’s viscosity matches the body of wine nicely.

The only downsides are that seafood stock lacks acidity, so consider adding lemon juice or vinegar. It may also be hard to find.

6. Fruit Juices

Fruit juices like apple, orange, or pineapple can impart sweet, vibrant flavors to shrimp scampi if you’re looking for a twist.

I’d recommend using fruit juice in combination with another substitute like broth or clam juice for best results. Start with 1/4 cup juice per 1/4 cup wine.

The sugars and acids in the fruit juice mimic some of wine’s effects. Just don’t overdo the fruit or the scampi may become too sweet.

7. Water

If you’re really in a pinch, you can use water in place of white wine in shrimp scampi. Water won’t add any flavor, but it will thin out the butter sauce so it coats the shrimp nicely.

Simply use the same amount of water as you would white wine. You’ll still get tender, garlicky shrimp – just with a less complex sauce.

Consider adding lemon juice or herbs like thyme or oregano to the water to liven things up. Extra garlic and black pepper also helps boost flavor.

Tips for Cooking Shrimp Scampi without Wine

When cooking your shrimp scampi with a wine substitute, keep these tips in mind:

• Sauté the garlic gently in butter – don’t let it burn or it will taste bitter.

• Let broth, clam juice, or stock reduce a bit to concentrate flavors.

• Add lemon juice, vinegar, or fruit juices at the end for brightness.

• Finish with fresh parsley, lemon zest, red pepper flakes, or grated Parmesan for extra flavor.

• If the sauce is too thick, thin it with a bit of water or broth for the right consistency.

• Don’t overcook the shrimp – take them off the heat when they turn pink and opaque.

• Serve shrimp scampi with noodles, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce!

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the best white wine substitute for seafood dishes?

For most seafood, I recommend using a mild vegetable or chicken broth as the best substitute for white wine. Broth adds savory flavor without overpowering the seafood. Clam juice and seafood stock work nicely too for amping up briny seafood essence.

Can I use red wine instead of white in shrimp scampi?

It’s best to avoid red wine in shrimp scampi – the bold tannins and fruity flavors will clash instead of complementing the dish. Stick with more delicate white wine substitutes like broth, juice, vinegar, or water.

Is vermouth a good substitute for white wine in cooking?

Yes, dry vermouth can often be used in place of white wine in sauces and dishes like shrimp scampi. Its herbal flavors work well in seafood. The only downside is vermouth has a stronger alcohol flavor, so reduce the amount slightly.

Should I add parsley, oregano, or other herbs if I’m not using wine?

Absolutely! Fresh herbs are a great way to boost flavor in shrimp scampi if you skip the wine. I especially love finishing the dish with a sprinkle of chopped Italian parsley – it really livens things up. Oregano, thyme, and basil also pair excellently.

Can I use beer or vodka instead of white wine in shrimp scampi?

I don’t recommend using beer or hard liquor like vodka as the primary white wine replacement in shrimp scampi. The strong flavors and carbonation of beer will overpower the scampi. Vodka can make the sauce too alcohol-forward.