Vinegar

Acetobacter Condiment/Acid

Vinegar Condiment/Acid

At a Glance

  • Category Condiment/Acid

The Forktionary Angle

"Vinegar was used as a medicine in ancient times, with Hippocrates recommending it for healing wounds and soothing coughs."

Definition

An acidic liquid produced from the fermentation of ethanol by acetic acid bacteria. Used as a condiment, preservative, and cleaning agent.

Acetic Acid Concentration Typically 4-8%
Oldest Known Use 5000 BCE (Babylon)
Shelf Life (unopened) Indefinite

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Vinegar are:

Sour tart pungent varies greatly by type (e.g. fruity for apple cider sweet-sour for balsamic)

Chef’s Secret

A tiny dash of vinegar (even distilled white) can brighten and enhance the flavors of almost any savory dish, especially soups or stews, without making it taste sour. It's a secret flavor enhancer.

Best Substitutes

Lemon juice

less complex, fruitier
Ratio 1:1

lime juice

tangier
Ratio 1:1

white wine

for deglazing, but less acidic

verjus

milder grape acidity
Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

Different types serve different purposes. Balsamic for dressings, apple cider for health/marinades, white for pickling/cleaning.

Culinary Pairings

Recipes Using Vinegar

Dietary Jams And Preserves Fruit Easy

Apple And Green Tomato Relish

This unique and festive Apple & Green Tomato Relish recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! A beautiful, vibrant relish perfect for gifting or enjoying yourself. Originally created for Christmas gifts, this recipe received rave reviews and requests for more. Its unexpected combination of sweet apples and tart green tomatoes creates a flavor explosion that's both sweet and tangy. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, this relish is the perfect addition to any holiday spread or cheese board. Make a batch today and experience the magic!

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Equipment Time To Make Preparation Equipment

Baked Buffalo Chicken Breasts

Juicy, tender baked buffalo chicken breasts – all the flavor of your favorite wings, without the fuss! This easy recipe delivers crispy skin and perfectly spiced chicken in just 40 minutes. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or game day!

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Occasion Appetizers Easy Occasion

Barbecued Apricot Hot Dogs

Sweet and savory perfection! This incredibly flavorful Barbecued Apricot Hot Dog recipe is perfect for lunch, dinner, appetizers, or your next potluck. The slow-cooked apricot BBQ sauce adds a unique twist to classic hot dogs, creating a dish that's both surprisingly sophisticated and easy to make. Impress your friends and family with this crowd-pleasing recipe!

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Holiday Event North American Very Low Carbs Preparation

Another Perfect Poached Egg

Master the art of the perfect poached egg with this unique technique! Forget runny whites and rubbery yolks – this method guarantees a flawlessly poached egg every time. Achieve restaurant-quality results in just 13 minutes. Try it now and discover why this is the *only* poached egg recipe you'll ever need!

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Time To Make Time To Make Cuisine Kid Friendly

Aunt Helen's Sloppy Joes

Experience the ultimate comfort food with Aunt Helen's Sloppy Joes! This slow-cooked recipe develops a rich, delicious sauce that's perfect for a family meal or a cozy night in. The slightly sweet and tangy flavor will have everyone asking for seconds. Freezes beautifully for easy weeknight meals. Easily customizable – add more Worcestershire sauce to your liking!

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Pineapple Main Ingredient Cuban Course

Avocado And Pineapple Salad Ensalada De Aguacate Y Pina

Escape to the vibrant flavors of Cuba with this refreshing Avocado and Pineapple Salad! This Miami-inspired recipe from three culinary maestros delivers a delightful blend of sweet pineapple, creamy avocado, and a tangy, zesty dressing. The secret? High-quality extra virgin olive oil and a touch of salt and pepper to elevate the dressing. Prepare to be amazed by the perfect balance of sweet, sour, and savory in every bite!

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Taste Mood Grilling 60 Minutes Or Less Salads

Asian Style Grilled Chicken Salad

Fire up your grill for this vibrant and flavorful Asian-inspired chicken salad! Juicy grilled chicken, sweet grilled pineapple, and a zesty homemade dressing come together for a meal that's both satisfying and refreshing. Serve with crusty rolls for a complete and unforgettable culinary experience. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a summer barbecue!

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3 Steps Or Less Main Ingredient Preparation Dietary

Bacon And Cheese Eggs

Elevate your breakfast with these Bacon and Cheese Stuffed Eggs! Crispy bacon and creamy cheese are nestled inside perfectly cooked egg whites for a flavor explosion in every bite. Ready in just 20 minutes, this recipe is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal or a delightful brunch.

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Dietary Lunch Number Of Servings Dietary

Beef In A Cup

These individual Beef in a Cup servings are the perfect tasty and convenient lunchtime treat! Great for busy weekdays and easily reheated in the microwave. This recipe makes 6 servings, easily doubled for larger families or meal prepping.

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Easy Main Ingredient North American Side Dishes

Barbecue Limas

Indulge in the rich, smoky flavors of these slow-cooked Barbecue Limas! This recipe, adapted from the American Diabetes Association, offers a hearty and satisfying meal complete with protein. Serve alongside fluffy cornbread for a truly unforgettable Southern feast. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

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Course Preparation Main Dish Lunch

Barbecued Pork Sandwiches Crockpot

Fall-apart tender, juicy pulled pork, slow-cooked to perfection in your crockpot! This crowd-pleasing recipe, inspired by Better Homes and Gardens, is perfect for sandwiches on hard rolls or French bread. Make a big batch for easy weeknight meals, lunches, or freezer storage. Learn my secret for super-fast shredding using a KitchenAid stand mixer!

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Pork Pork Course Time To Make

Beer Sausages In Beer Sauce

This quick and easy appetizer is bursting with flavor! A medley of sausages (try a mix of bratwurst, Italian, and kielbasa!) simmered in a rich beer sauce, optionally with a sweet and savory twist of pineapple. Perfect for game day, parties, or a casual weeknight snack.

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Sandwiches Taste Mood Main Ingredient Course

Bbq Sliced Pork

Transform leftover pork or beef roast into a mouthwatering BBQ masterpiece! This recipe delivers tender, flavorful pulled pork, perfect for sliders or sandwiches. Get ready for a flavor explosion in just 60 minutes!

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Easy Low Protein Dietary Preparation

Basic Sweet And Sour Sauce

Whip up this incredibly versatile sweet and sour sauce in just 5 minutes! Ideal for marinades, dipping sauces, and glazing – elevate your dishes with its tangy-sweet perfection. Easy recipe for beginners and seasoned cooks alike.

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Main Ingredient Side Dishes Dietary Stove Top

1940's Coleslaw

Step back in time with this authentic 1940s coleslaw recipe! Unlike modern, creamy coleslaws, this recipe features a deliciously cooked dressing for a unique flavor profile. This recipe is perfect for vintage cooking enthusiasts or anyone looking for a nostalgic and flavorful twist on a classic side dish. Prepare to be amazed by the rich, creamy texture and the comforting taste of this truly special coleslaw.

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Cakes Dietary Desserts Cakes

Awesome Chocolate Cake

Indulge in this unbelievably moist and easy-to-make chocolate cake! Perfect for any occasion, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser. Bake a classic cake or whip up a batch of cupcakes in just 20 minutes! Don't forget to top with our decadent, homemade mocha icing (recipe available separately!).

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4 Hours Or Less Taste Mood Oven Ground Beef

Second Only To My Meatloaf Meatballs

My daughters (ages 12 and 6) adore my meatloaf, but sometimes I need a fun twist! These juicy, flavorful meatballs capture all the meatloaf magic in a fun, easy-to-eat format. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual get-together, these meatballs are guaranteed to be a family favorite. Get ready for rave reviews!

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Apples Main Ingredient Time To Make 4 Hours Or Less

Apple Tree Shanty Barbecue Sauce

Relive the legendary flavors of Denver's beloved Apple Tree Shanty (1949-late 1990s)! This recipe recreates their iconic barbecue sauce, the perfect complement to their famous cast-iron apple-mold seared beef tenderloin tips. A rich and savory blend of herbs, spices, and sweetness, this sauce is a taste of Denver history. Perfect for grilling, basting, or as a dipping sauce. Get ready for a culinary time travel experience!

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