Fork beside plate of pasta with sun dried tomatoes and chicken Contrary to popular belief, alcohol does not completely cook out of foods — something recovering alcoholics and those with alcohol-related illnesses need to keep in mind.

A study published in the Journal of the American Dietetic Association found that recipes with added alcohol retained from 4% to 85% of the alcohol. The recipes ranged from chilled foods such as brandy Alexander pie to foods with a long simmering time such as pot roast.

The amount of alcohol that burns off depends on the cooking method used and how long the alcohol is cooked.

In the study, a flamed dish retained 75% of the alcohol, while a recipe simmered for 2 ½ hours retained 5% of the alcohol.

Always inform your guests when you’re cooking with alcohol.

Adapted from; HEART SMART of the Henry Ford Hospital Heart and Vascular Institute.

See also;

Related Reading:

On Food and Cooking: The Science and Lore of the Kitchen
Food Preservation Book Package: Food Drying and Food Canning (2 Books)
Rational Drinking: How to Live Happily With or Without Alcohol
Alcohol Infused! The Ultimate Recipe Guide - Over 30 Best Selling Recipes