Calorie Chart / Seasoning & Sauces / Madeira sauce
How Many Calories Are in Madeira sauce?
Calculation of the nutritional value & Recommended Dietary Intake of madeira sauce
For g and a calorie requirement of kcal
| Calories 53 kcal | Proteins 0.6 g | Lipids 3.8 g | Carbohydrates 4.2 g |
| 3% | 1% | 6% | 2% |
Health benefits of madeira sauce
Madeira sauce - 100g
Calories 353 kcal
Proteins 4 g
Lipids 25 g
Carbohydrates 28 g
Madeira sauce is a high-calorie staple of classic French gastronomy, often compared with other rich dressings such as Béarnaise sauce or pepper sauce. Because its calories come chiefly from butter and the natural sugars of fortified wine, it provides a concentrated source of energy that can be useful when a dish needs extra flavour without expanding volume.
The reduction of Madeira wine retains polyphenols (particularly resveratrol) that are reputed to have antioxidant properties, although any heart-protective benefit remains hypothetical and should not be overstated. A veal-stock base contributes trace minerals such as iron, zinc and potassium, while slow simmering releases small amounts of collagen that turn into gelatin and may support joint comfort. Vitamin B3 (niacin) and B6 survive the cooking process in modest quantities, adding another micronutrient layer to this high-calorie condiment.
Compared with lighter options like rouille sauce, Madeira sauce contains more sodium; individuals mindful of blood pressure should use it sparingly. Still, its intense aroma means a tablespoon can satisfy the palate, keeping overall calories under better control than generous portions of cream-based dressings. Culinary historians note that the recipe appeared in French households shortly after Portuguese Madeira wine became fashionable in the 18th century—another reminder that calories often travel with culture and tradition.
In summary, Madeira sauce provides dense calories, a touch of protein-derived gelatin, and a handful of wine-borne antioxidants, making it a flavourful yet energy-rich finishing touch for meats and vegetables.
Tips for incorporating madeira sauce into a balanced diet
Because its calories are concentrated, Madeira sauce is best treated as a finishing glaze rather than a soup ladle. Brush 1–2 tablespoons over a grilled beef steak and pair the plate with steamed green beans to keep calories in check while adding colour and fibre. If you prefer poultry, a seared duck breast on a bed of brown rice absorbs the sauce beautifully; the grains soak up flavour without excessive extra calories.
For a lighter take on a classic, pan-fry a veal cutlet with thyme, deglaze with vegetable stock, then whisk in just a spoonful of Madeira sauce to coat. Serve alongside roasted asparagus or sautéed button mushrooms. You will enjoy the same deep aroma with fewer calories than a full-fat cream reduction.
Madeira sauce also enhances vegetarian plates: try drizzling a thin ribbon over baked pumpkin wedges or atop a bowl of herbed quinoa. The sweet notes of the wine highlight earthy vegetables, turning a low-calorie base into a gourmet experience while still allowing you to track total calories precisely.
Whatever recipe you choose, measure the sauce before serving. Knowing the exact spoonfuls helps you log calories accurately, stay within daily calorie targets, and maintain the balance between indulgence and nutrition.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How many calories are in Madeira sauce?
- Madeira sauce contains 353 kcal per 100 g.
- Is Madeira sauce suitable for a low-calorie diet?
- Because it is energy-dense, Madeira sauce is not usually considered a low-calorie option, but using a small 15 g serving keeps calories under roughly 55 kcal.
- How can I reduce the calories when making homemade Madeira sauce?
- Replace part of the butter with a spoonful of light crème fraîche, thicken with corn-starch instead of roux, and you can shave 20–30 % of the calories per portion.
- How many calories will Madeira sauce add to a typical steak dinner?
- Two tablespoons (about 30 g) provide close to 105 kcal, so factor those calories into the overall plate if you track calories carefully.
- Does simmering longer change the calories of Madeira sauce?
- Lengthy reduction evaporates water but does not remove fat or sugar, so calories per gram rise slightly; total calories stay identical unless you skim off fat.
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Information provided by Calorie Menu may contain inaccuracies or errors. It cannot, under any circumstances, substitute medical advice or medication.
