Substitute for Dry Sherry: 3 Smart Options
The best substitute for dry sherry is Sherry Wine (Fortified, Dry) at a Same amount (1:1) ratio. There are 2 other alternatives below, each with exact ratios and usage notes.
Best Substitute
Sherry Wine (Fortified, Dry)
Same amount (1:1)
You can use Sherry Wine (Fortified, Dry) in place of dry sherry when needed. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. Taste near the end and fine-tune if the dish needs a little more punch.
What are the other substitutes for dry sherry?
Amontillado Sherry
Same amount (1:1)
Amontillado Sherry works as a substitute for dry sherry in many recipes. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. It is especially useful in sauces.
Dry Sherry Vinegar
Use 50%
Dry Sherry Vinegar is a workable stand-in for dry sherry. Use 50% of the original amount to start, then adjust if needed. Taste near the end and fine-tune if the dish needs a little more punch.
What should you know before substituting dry sherry?
Sherry Wine (Fortified, Dry) is the easiest starting point because it stays closest to dry sherry in everyday cooking. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. Think about what the original contributes, acidity, sweetness, aroma, or depth, before choosing a replacement.
How do you substitute dry sherry in a recipe?
When a recipe calls for dry sherry and you need an alternative, there are 3 tested substitutes available. Sherry Wine (Fortified, Dry) is the best overall replacement, used at a Same amount (1:1) ratio. The right substitute depends on the role dry sherry plays in your recipe: whether it provides flavor, texture, moisture, or structure.
The best substitute for dry sherry depends on what role it plays in your recipe. Our top recommendation is Sherry Wine (Fortified, Dry) (Same amount (1:1)), which works well for most recipes.
If you need a different option, Amontillado Sherry (Same amount (1:1)) is another reliable choice. Amontillado Sherry works as a substitute for dry sherry in many recipes. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. It is especially useful in sauces.
When substituting dry sherry, consider the flavor profile, texture, and cooking method of your recipe. For vegan alternatives, look for the options marked with the vegan badge above.
Substitution ratios verified against USDA FoodData Central and FoodSafety.gov. See our testing methodology for details.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best substitute for Dry Sherry?
Sherry Wine (Fortified, Dry) is the best place to start for dry sherry. Use a 1:1 swap and then adjust after tasting if the dish needs a little more intensity or balance.
How many substitutes are there for Dry Sherry?
This page lists 3 substitutes for dry sherry. The best pick depends on whether you want the closest flavor, similar texture, or simply the easiest pantry backup.