Condiment, Acid | Vegan Vegetarian Gluten Free Low Calorie

Vinegar

Acetic acid (primary component) Allergen-Free
vinegar

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family N/A
  • Primary Cuisine Universal
  • Seasonality Year-Round
  • Source Grains, Fruits (apples, grapes), Sugarcane

The Forktionary Angle

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

Definition

A sour liquid containing acetic acid, produced by fermentation, used as a condiment, preservative, and cleaning agent.

Sensory Profile

TasteSour, Pungent, Tangy, Acidic
TextureLiquid, Viscous
AromaPungent, Sharp, Fruity
AcidityHigh

Technical Metrics

Acetic Acid Concentration

Typically 4-8%

Oldest Known Use

5000 BCE (Babylon)

Shelf Life (unopened)

Indefinite

Nutrition Facts

Per 15ml
Calories18 kcal
Total Fat0g
Saturated Fat0g
Trans Fat0g
Cholesterol0mg
Protein0g
Total Carbohydrate0.4g
Dietary Fiber0g
Total Sugars0g
Calcium1mg
Iron0.1mg
Potassium7mg

Chef’s Secret

A dash of vinegar can brighten almost any dish, from soups to sauces, by cutting richness and enhancing other flavors without adding a distinct 'vinegar' taste.

Substitutions

Best Match

Lemon Juice

1:1

Best for adding acidity to dressings, marinades, or balancing flavors. Fruity note.

Lime Juice

1:1

Similar to lemon juice, offers a distinct citrus flavor, good for Latin/Asian dishes.

White Wine

1:2 (wine to vinegar)

Can provide acidity and deglazing properties, but less concentrated, and contains alcohol.

Cream of Tartar + Water

1/2 tsp cream of tartar + 1 tbsp water for 1 tbsp vinegar

Good for baking applications where acid is needed for leavening, not for flavor directly.

Buying Guide

Choose based on intended use: white for cleaning/pickling, apple cider for health/dressings, balsamic for richness, red wine for marinades.

Flavor Pairings

Oil salt pepper herbs garlic fruits vegetables meats.

Recipes Using Vinegar

Cuisine Pasta Course Summer

A Different Macaroni Salad

Get ready for a macaroni salad unlike any other! This recipe puts a delicious, creamy Thousand Island spin on a classic. Don't let the pretty pink hue surprise you – the flavor is amazing! A perfect side dish for barbecues, potlucks, or a weeknight dinner.

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Main Ingredient Inexpensive To Go Served Cold

Amish Cole Slaw

Craving Primanti Bros coleslaw? This Amish-inspired recipe is the closest copycat you'll find! Tangy, crunchy, and incredibly addictive, this slaw is perfect for BBQs, sandwiches, or as a side dish. Made with simple ingredients and a quick cooking process (plus overnight chilling for maximum flavor!), this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Get ready to experience coleslaw perfection!

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Vegetables Northeastern United States 60 Minutes Or Less Low Fat

Amish Potato Salad

Taste the tradition! This authentic Amish potato salad recipe, passed down through generations and sold at a local farmers market, is unbelievably creamy and sweet. Unlike ordinary potato salads, this one boasts a unique sweetness that will leave you craving more. The secret? A slow, absorbing dressing! Follow our instructions carefully, especially step 3, to achieve the perfect balance of creamy sweetness. You control the dressing, adding a little at a time to reach your ideal consistency. Make it today and savor the taste of Amish country!

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Gluten Free Caribbean North American Occasion

Anguilla Beef And Pineapple Kebabs From Longmeadow Farm

Escape to the Caribbean with these Anguilla-inspired beef and pineapple kebabs! Tender steak marinated in a tangy molasses and vinegar blend, then grilled to perfection with sweet pineapple and vibrant veggies. This recipe transports you to the sunny shores of Anguilla, offering a delicious and easy weeknight meal. Perfect for BBQs or a fun family dinner!

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Course 15 Minutes Or Less Pasta Rice And Grains Preparation

Anne's Pasta Salad Made Lighter

This lighter take on my Aunt Anne's famous macaroni salad is a family favorite, perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or a healthy weeknight meal! It's creamy, tangy, and bursting with fresh veggies, all while being surprisingly light and refreshing. Get ready for rave reviews!

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Time To Make 60 Minutes Or Less Holiday Event Meat

Apple Cabbage Skillet Dinner

A quick and easy 35-minute skillet meal! Sweet apples and savory cabbage combine with juicy sausages for a comforting and flavorful dinner. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight meal and is easily customizable to your taste.

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Preparation Cuisine Soy Tofu Low Saturated Fat

Apricot Orange Barbecued Tofu

Sweet and savory perfection! This Apricot Orange Barbecued Tofu recipe delivers a burst of sunshine to your plate. Inspired by the classic flavors of 'Tofu Cookery,' this recipe boasts a harmonious blend of sweet apricots, tangy oranges, and smoky barbecue, creating an unforgettable taste sensation. Impress your friends and family with this easy-to-make, yet restaurant-worthy dish! Ready in just 40 minutes.

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Preparation Inexpensive Cuisine Seasonal

Aunt Margie's Cole Slaw

Tired of heavy, mayo-based coleslaws? This recipe, passed down from Aunt Margie, offers a lighter, tangier alternative perfect for cookouts, picnics, and everyday meals. This refreshing coleslaw ditches the mayo and boasts a vibrant flavor that's both delicious and surprisingly simple to make. It's incredibly versatile; easily adjust the sweetness to your preference – even make it sugar-free! Get ready to experience a whole new world of coleslaw.

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3 Steps Or Less To Go Picnic Time To Make

Australian Coleslaw

This vibrant Australian Coleslaw recipe is a crowd-pleaser! A quick and easy side dish perfect for barbecues, picnics, or a light lunch. This recipe features a creamy, tangy dressing that complements the crunchy vegetables beautifully. Get ready to experience a taste of Australia with this simple yet delicious coleslaw.

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Cuban Caribbean Main Ingredient Side Dishes

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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Dietary Low Cholesterol Summer Cuisine

Avocado With Tofu

This vibrant and creamy Avocado & Tofu bowl is a crowd-pleaser! Inspired by a Japanese cooking show, this recipe has been a favorite at my church potlucks for years. Quick, easy, and packed with flavor, it's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a light lunch. Get ready to experience a delightful fusion of textures and tastes!

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Course Main Ingredient Crock Pot Slow Cooker Equipment

Balsamic Chicken For Crock Pot

This Balsamic Chicken recipe is a family favorite, perfected over time! Tender, juicy chicken simmers in a rich balsamic glaze, creating a flavorful dish everyone will crave. The delicious sauce is so good, you'll want to drink it! Serve over rice or pasta for a complete and satisfying meal. Get ready for rave reviews!

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Dietary Preparation Condiments Etc Time To Make

Banana Pepper Rings

Capture the vibrant flavors of your garden with these homemade pepper rings! A delicious and crunchy alternative to store-bought, this recipe lets you use any peppers you have on hand – from sweet banana peppers to fiery jalapeños. Easy to customize and perfect for adding a zing to sandwiches, salads, or enjoying as a tasty snack.

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Beginner Cook Occasion Easy Main Ingredient

Barbecue Pit Bbq Beans

These award-winning BBQ beans are bursting with smoky flavor and a touch of spicy kick! Perfect for potlucks, game day, or a weeknight family meal, even picky eaters will love them. This easy recipe simmers to perfection in your slow cooker or oven, resulting in tender beans with a rich, tangy barbecue sauce. Get ready for rave reviews!

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Lunch 60 Minutes Or Less Preparation Lunch

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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Main Ingredient Ground Beef Low Fat Vegetables

Bell Pepper Delight

This quick and easy recipe transforms classic stuffed bell peppers into a delicious, one-pan meal perfect for busy weeknights! Inspired by a college apartment hack, this frugal and flavorful dish combines savory ground beef, tender bell peppers, and a rich tomato sauce – all cooked in one pan for ultimate convenience. Skip the oven and enjoy a hearty, satisfying dinner in under 40 minutes!

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Easy 3 Steps Or Less Salads Easy

Best Macaroni Salad

This creamy macaroni salad recipe is a crowd-pleaser, easily customizable to your taste! The classic combo of macaroni and creamy dressing is the star, but feel free to experiment with add-ins like tuna, radishes, scallions, or anything your heart desires. This recipe provides a flexible base for your perfect macaroni salad. Prep time includes cooking the pasta; chill for at least 30 minutes for best results.

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Time To Make Easy 30 Minutes Or Less Dietary

Sweet And Sour Sloppy Joes

Craving a sloppy joe with a kick? This Sweet & Sour Sloppy Joe recipe delivers a vibrant, tangy twist on a classic comfort food. A unique family recipe, it's sure to become a new favorite! Sweet and sour perfection served on toasted buns – get ready for a flavor explosion!

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