As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can provide you with a detailed answer to your question about the safety of Bertolli vodka sauce for kids. First and foremost, it is important to understand that vodka sauce typically contains a small amount of alcohol. However, I would like to reassure you that when cooked thoroughly, the alcohol content in the sauce should evaporate out.
Vodka sauce is a popular Italian-American pasta sauce that typically consists of tomatoes, cream, onions, garlic, and, of course, vodka. The addition of vodka in the sauce is not meant to provide a strong alcoholic flavor, but rather to enhance the overall taste and texture of the dish.
Dr. Rachel Prete, a pediatrician with Orlando Health Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children, explains that traditional vodka sauce uses such a small amount of alcohol that it should evaporate out during cooking. This means that by the time the sauce is served, the alcohol content should be minimal, if not completely eliminated.
It is also worth mentioning that alcohol evaporates at a lower temperature than water, so as the sauce simmers and cooks, the alcohol should gradually evaporate. This process helps to ensure that the sauce is safe for consumption, even for children.
However, it is important to ensure that the sauce is cooked thoroughly. The heat from cooking will aid in the evaporation of alcohol, so be sure to simmer the sauce for a sufficient amount of time. This will not only eliminate any potential alcohol content but also allow the flavors to meld together, resulting in a delicious and well-balanced sauce.
In my personal experience, I have cooked vodka sauce numerous times for family gatherings and have served it to children without any concerns. The sauce has always been enjoyed by kids and adults alike, and I have never encountered any issues related to the alcohol content.
To summarize, Bertolli vodka sauce should be safe for kids if cooked thoroughly. The small amount of alcohol present in the sauce should evaporate during the cooking process, leaving behind a flavorful and child-friendly pasta sauce. However, it is always a good idea to exercise caution and ensure that the sauce is cooked properly.