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

Low Saturated Fat Low In Something Dietary Main Ingredient

African Hot Sauce

Ignite your taste buds with this authentic African Hot Sauce recipe! Not for the faint of heart, this intensely flavorful condiment packs a serious punch. Perfect for adventurous eaters who love heat, it's incredibly versatile – use it sparingly as a condiment or stir a touch into almost any dish for an exciting kick. Feel free to adjust the pepper type and quantity to control the heat level. Prepare to be amazed!

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Fish Tilapia Low Carb Very Low Carbs

African Tilapia

Experience a taste of Africa with this flavorful grilled tilapia recipe! Marinated to perfection and basted throughout grilling, this recipe delivers juicy, tender fish bursting with vibrant spices. A crowd-pleaser guaranteed to impress your friends and family. Easy to follow instructions make this a perfect weeknight dinner.

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Course Weeknight North American Cuisine

Alaska Sourest Dough Starter

Unleash the tangy magic of Alaska with this sourdough starter recipe! Originally shared by 'vicki', this recipe promises a delightfully sour and robust starter perfect for baking incredible sourdough bread. Learn how to cultivate your own Alaskan sourdough culture – a testament to patience and deliciousness.

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Independence Day Easy Inexpensive Independence Day

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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Inexpensive Main Ingredient Inexpensive American

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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60 Minutes Or Less Preparation Course Time To Make

Auntie Barb's Moist Chocolate Cake

Indulge in the legendary moist chocolate cake that's been a family favorite for generations! Auntie Barb's secret recipe delivers an incredibly rich, decadent, and unbelievably moist chocolate experience. This ultimate chocolate cake is perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any occasion where you want to impress. Get ready for rave reviews!

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South West Pacific Salads Low Cholesterol Cuisine

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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60 Minutes Or Less Oven Time To Make Main Ingredient

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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Time To Make 60 Minutes Or Less Sandwiches Dietary

Barbecue Burgers Mix

Fire up your taste buds with this family-favorite Barbecue Burgers Mix! My sister's secret recipe delivers juicy, flavorful burgers bursting with barbecue goodness. Easy to make and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a backyard barbecue.

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Appetizers Snacks Brunch Cheese

Barbecue Muffins

These irresistible Barbecue Beef & Cheese Muffins are the perfect after-school snack for kids, a game-day munchie for football fans, or a delightful appetizer for any gathering! Savory BBQ beef nestled in fluffy biscuit cups and topped with melted cheese – pure comfort food heaven. Easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser!

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Potluck Occasion Fruit Easy

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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Preparation Meat Dietary Time To Make

Barbecued Beefies

This nostalgic recipe, straight from a 1971 Betty Crocker card, is a lifesaver when you're on a budget! These delicious Barbecued Beefies are perfect for busy weeknights or nostalgic family dinners. Originally a 'Best Before Payday Dinner' recipe, these savory patties are incredibly flavorful and satisfying, proving that delicious food doesn't have to break the bank. Chef-tweaked for easier preparation, this updated recipe is a must-try for families and budget-conscious cooks alike.

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Meat Pork Meat Weeknight

Barbecued Carolina Pork

Experience the ultimate Carolina BBQ pork sandwich! This recipe's slow-cooked pork, tender and juicy, is elevated by a tangy, vibrant vinegar-based sauce and a creamy coleslaw that takes it to another level. The perfect balance of sweet, smoky, and tangy flavors will leave you craving more!

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Main Dish Meat Dietary Main Dish

Barbecued Meatballs

Juicy, flavorful barbecued meatballs, perfect for a quick and inexpensive weeknight dinner! This family-favorite recipe, passed down from my mom, is surprisingly simple to make and delivers big on taste. Get ready for tender meatballs swimming in a tangy, smoky barbecue sauce – the perfect comfort food.

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Weeknight Dietary North American Occasion

Beef Brisket

This unbelievably tender beef brisket recipe is a crowd-pleaser! A simple, 'no-fuss' method delivers incredible flavor. Perfect for family dinners or parties, this recipe is a guaranteed hit. Get ready to impress your loved ones with this juicy, fall-apart brisket.

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Healthy 2 Dietary Refrigerator Easy

Best Ever Bbq Sauce

Get ready to experience BBQ bliss! This award-winning BBQ sauce boasts a rich, tangy flavor that's mildly addictive (we warned you!). Perfect for slathering on your favorite BBQ meats, especially sausages and barbecued kransky. Makes approximately 1 1/4 cups of pure deliciousness.

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15 Minutes Or Less Time To Make Low In Something Sauces

Mint Sauce

Elevate your lamb dinner with this vibrant and easy-to-make mint sauce! Bursting with fresh mint and a delightful sweet and tangy flavor, this recipe is ready in minutes and is the perfect complement to roasted lamb, grilled chops, or even as a marinade. Impress your guests with this simple yet sophisticated side dish.

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Snacks Peaches Low Calorie Course

Peach Tomato Salsa

Fire up your taste buds with this vibrant Peach Tomato Salsa! Sweet, spicy, and surprisingly easy to make, this recipe uses fresh yellow peaches and canned shortcuts for ultimate convenience. Perfect with tortilla chips, grilled chicken, or as a zesty topping for your favorite dishes. Learn how to can this delicious salsa for long-lasting flavor. This recipe is perfect for both beginner and experienced canners.

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