Condiment | Vegan Vegetarian Gluten Free Low Calorie

White Vinegar

Acetic acid solution Allergen-Free
white vinegar

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family N/A
  • Primary Cuisine Global
  • Seasonality Year-Round
  • Source Grain alcohol (e.g., corn, wheat), Water

The Forktionary Angle

"The versatile liquid that's indispensable in both kitchen and home."

Definition

A clear, strong vinegar typically made from fermented grain alcohol, prized for its sharp acidity and cleaning properties.

Sensory Profile

TasteSour, Pungent, Tart, Sharp
TextureThin, Liquid, Smooth
AromaPungent, Acetic, Sharp
AcidityHigh

Technical Metrics

Acetic Acid Concentration

5-8%

Primary Culinary Use

Pickling, Marinades, Dressings, Baking (leavening)

Shelf Life (Unopened)

Indefinite

Nutrition Facts

Per 15 mL (1 tbsp)
Calories18 kcal
Total Fat0 g
Saturated Fat0 g
Trans Fat0 g
Cholesterol0 mg
Protein0 g
Total Carbohydrate0.1 g
Dietary Fiber0 g
Total Sugars0.1 g
Calcium1 mg
Iron0 mg
Potassium5 mg

Chef’s Secret

A splash of white vinegar in water when poaching eggs helps the whites set quickly and cleanly. It's also great for deglazing pans.

Substitutions

Best Match

Lemon Juice

1:1

Similar acidity and sourness, but with a distinct citrus flavor. Good for dressings and marinades.

Lime Juice

1:1

Also high in acidity and bright, but with a unique lime flavor.

Apple Cider Vinegar

1:1

Milder acidity and fruity notes, can be used in most recipes, but alters flavor slightly.

Rice Vinegar

1:1

Milder and sweeter, less pungent. Good for Asian dishes where less harsh acidity is desired.

Buying Guide

Look for 5% acidity for standard cooking and cleaning uses. Distilled white vinegar is purest.

Flavor Pairings

Baking Soda (for cleaning) Salt Oil Sugar (to balance) Vegetables (pickling) Fish Potatoes.

Recipes Using White Vinegar

Easy Dinner Party Brunch Vegetables

55 House Salad

Recreate the legendary house salad from a beloved Columbus, Ohio Italian restaurant! This recipe, inspired by a Columbus Dispatch article, features a craveable bacon, lettuce, and red onion salad with a creamy, dreamy homemade dressing. Skip the blue cheese (like the original creator!) or add it in for an extra layer of flavor. The secret? Freshly ground black pepper elevates this simple salad to a culinary masterpiece. Makes a generous amount of dressing – feel free to halve or quarter the recipe to suit your needs.

See Complete Recipe
15 Minutes Or Less Copycat Novelty Course

Arby's Horsey Sauce

Recreate the irresistible Arby's Horsey Sauce at home! This copycat recipe delivers that same creamy, subtly spicy horseradish kick you crave, perfect for dipping your favorite roast beef, sandwiches, or burgers. Easy to make in just 5 minutes, this homemade version is a delicious and budget-friendly alternative to the restaurant favorite.

See Complete Recipe
Course Low Fat Easy Healthy

Artisan Boule Bread

Conquer artisan bread baking in minutes, not hours! This recipe, inspired by 'Artisan Bread in Five Minutes a Day,' delivers incredible sourdough-like flavor with minimal effort. Simply mix the ingredients once, refrigerate, and bake whenever you're ready. Enjoy fresh, crusty bread in under an hour, with flavor that deepens over time (up to 10 days in the fridge!). Perfect for busy weeknights and impressive enough for any occasion. This recipe uses a lager beer; do not substitute with ale. Requires a large (5-6 qt) non-airtight container for rising and a baking stone or 5-qt Dutch oven.

See Complete Recipe
Preparation Main Dish Course Chicken

Asian Caramelized Chicken

This irresistible Asian Caramelized Chicken recipe is a family favorite that's impressive enough for guests! Tender, juicy boneless, skinless chicken thighs are coated in a luscious, sticky glaze, then finished with crunchy peanuts and fresh cilantro for an unforgettable flavor explosion. Ready in under 30 minutes!

See Complete Recipe
Salads 15 Minutes Or Less Low Carb 3 Steps Or Less

Aunt Trish's Salad Dressing From The Pioneer Woman

This creamy, tangy salad dressing recipe comes straight from Ree Drummond's (The Pioneer Woman) family archives! It's Aunt Trish's legendary recipe, perfect for elevating your salads and pasta dishes. While Aunt Trish used salad oil, you can easily substitute canola oil. For convenience, you can even use canned parmesan cheese – no judgment here! This easy 5-minute recipe requires just a quick shake and a 24-hour chill to develop its incredible flavor. Get ready to experience a salad dressing revelation!

See Complete Recipe
Low Fat Easy Healthy Time To Make

Auntie Heather's Awesome Picked Beetroot Beets

A treasured New Zealand family recipe, Auntie Heather's pickled beetroot is unbelievably delicious! This simple recipe relies on the pure, vibrant flavor of the beetroot, using a magical 'cup-for-cup' method: equal parts beetroot juice, sugar, and vinegar. The result? Perfectly tangy, sweet, and earthy pickled beets, perfect for salads or enjoyed straight from the jar! This recipe is easily scalable, making it ideal for any size batch. Discover the secret to unbelievably delicious pickled beetroot – a taste of New Zealand in every bite!

See Complete Recipe
Healthy Summer Low In Something Healthy 2

Authentic Jamaican Jerk Sauce

Ignite your taste buds with this authentic Jamaican Jerk Sauce recipe! Inspired by a family favorite found on Jamaicans.com (though we tweaked it!), this recipe delivers explosive flavor in just minutes. Even without allspice berries, the ground allspice substitution creates a rich, complex jerk sauce perfect for marinating your favorite meats. Prepare to be amazed!

See Complete Recipe
Cuisine German Dietary Cuisine

Authentic Sauerbraten

Experience the rich, complex flavors of traditional German Sauerbraten! This recipe features a mouthwatering marinade, slow-cooked beef, and a unique gingerbread-spiced gravy. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy winter night.

See Complete Recipe
Course Lettuces Tomatoes Dietary

Bacon Lettuce Tomato Layered Salad

This easy Bacon Lettuce Tomato Layered Salad is perfect for potlucks, picnics, or a light dinner! Crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and savory bacon are layered to perfection in a creamy basil dressing, then chilled for maximum flavor. No-fuss assembly and minimal cleanup make this recipe a crowd-pleaser. Get ready for rave reviews!

See Complete Recipe
Healthy Taste Mood Cuisine Course

Baked Fiery Chicken Strips

Craving those crispy, spicy chicken strips you love from restaurants, but want a healthier option? This baked version delivers the fiery flavor and satisfying crunch without the guilt! Inspired by Taste of Home Cooking School, this recipe is quick, easy, and perfect as an appetizer or a light meal. Get ready for a flavor explosion!

See Complete Recipe
Number Of Servings Vietnamese Sandwiches Preparation

Banh Mi Vietnamese Sandwiches Bnh Mi

Experience the taste of Vietnam with this incredible Banh Mi recipe! These homemade sandwiches rival the best from any Vietnamese shop. Using sourdough bread adds a delightful tang, and leftover Asian-flavored meats are perfectly welcome. Create a flavorful masterpiece with quick-pickled veggies and perfectly grilled protein. Get ready for an explosion of fresh herbs, crunchy textures, and savory deliciousness in every bite!

See Complete Recipe
Meat Picnic Beans Course

Barbecue Beans From The Crock Pot

Slow-cooked to perfection, these hearty BBQ beans are a crowd-pleaser! This easy crock-pot recipe delivers tender, flavorful beans in just 4 hours. Get ready for a taste sensation that will have everyone asking for seconds. Perfect for game day, potlucks, or a comforting weeknight meal.

See Complete Recipe
Low Protein 15 Minutes Or Less Course Salads

Basil Garlic Citrus Vinaigrette

Elevate your salad game with this vibrant Basil Garlic Citrus Vinaigrette! A zesty blend of orange, garlic, and basil, this 5-minute vinaigrette adds a burst of fresh flavor to mixed greens, oranges, and red onions. Perfect for a light lunch or a refreshing side dish, this recipe is easy to make and keeps well in the fridge for up to a week.

See Complete Recipe
30 Minutes Or Less Cuisine Time To Make Preparation

Bavarian Style Cube Steak

Tender and flavorful Bavarian Style Cube Steak recipe! This recipe puts a delicious twist on classic cube steak, highlighting the warm, earthy notes of caraway seed. Enjoy a juicy, melt-in-your-mouth experience with a rich and savory gravy. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

See Complete Recipe
Main Dish Main Ingredient Time To Make Equipment

Beef And Bean Pot

This hearty Beef and Bean Pot recipe is a quick and easy weeknight meal, perfect for busy families! Packed with flavor from ground beef, bacon, and beans, topped with melted cheese and crunchy corn chips, it's a comforting classic that's ready in under 2 hours. A perfect last-minute throw-together dish!

See Complete Recipe
Main Ingredient Side Dishes Main Ingredient Greens

Best Collard Greens Ever

Transform ordinary collard greens into an unforgettable culinary masterpiece! This recipe, adapted from a renowned TV chef, delivers melt-in-your-mouth collard greens with a depth of flavor that will leave you licking your plate clean. Get ready to experience collard greens like never before – even if you've never been a fan, this recipe is guaranteed to convert you! Perfect for a comforting weeknight meal or a special occasion.

See Complete Recipe
Time To Make Refrigerator 30 Minutes Or Less Course

Railroad Coleslaw

This Railroad Coleslaw recipe is a fast, easy, and refreshing twist on traditional coleslaw! Skip the mayonnaise and enjoy a vibrant, tangy, and slightly sweet slaw that's perfect as a side dish for BBQs, picnics, or any summer meal. Ready in under 20 minutes (plus chilling time!), this recipe is a delicious change of pace.

See Complete Recipe
Main Dish Cuisine Main Dish Curries

Shrimp Curry

Escape the chill with this vibrant Shrimp Curry! A fragrant blend of warming spices creates a rich, flavorful sauce that's just the right amount of heat. Perfect for a cozy night in or impressing guests, this recipe allows you to make the curry sauce ahead of time, adding fresh shrimp just before serving for ultimate convenience and delicious results. Get ready for a taste of paradise!

See Complete Recipe