What Is The Best Substitute For Apple Cider Vinegar?

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Looking for a substitute for apple cider vinegar? Whether you’re looking for a healthier option or just don’t have any ACV on hand, these substitutes will do the trick. 

Apple cider vinegar is made with fermented apple juice. The apple juices are crushed and fermented before being bottled. This ingredient gives savory dishes like salads and stir fries a tart taste and many people enjoy the apple juice taste and enjoy how it enhances dishes and drinks.

But when you need it in a recipe and it’s not in your kitchen, it’s time to find a substitute.

About Apple Cider Vinegar

It is most commonly used to make condiments such as salad dressings and marinades, vinaigrettes, and chutneys. However, it can also be used in sweet recipes such as mocktails and fire cider, and even vegan cake.

Why Choose a Substitute for Apple Cider Vinegar?

Many types of vinegar can be substituted for ACV in recipes, depending on personal preference and sensitivity. These alternatives may provide a similar sour flavor to apple cider vinegar in savory dishes.

Vinegar is often described as tart or sour. Apple cider vinegar has a distinctive flavor. Although it is one of the most pleasant types of vinegar, it might not be everyone’s favorite. It is important to find an alternative to apple cider vinegar if you prefer it.

ACV can be used frequently so you might run out of it quickly. You can also substitute for apple cider vinegar if you run out or don’t have any. Apple cider vinegar is usually affordable and easily accessible. However, other types of vinegar might be more affordable and easier.

Apple Cider Vinegar Substitutes

One of these alternatives may be able to replace apple cider vinegar in your recipes.

White Wine Vinegar

White wine vinegar is the most accessible and affordable of all types of vinegar. If you don’t like ACV, or can’t find it anywhere, try white wine vinegar. It is versatile and reliable.

White wine vinegar is slightly bolder than ACV in recipes. This is a good thing for those who find apple cider vinegar too strong. Apple cider vinegar and white vinegar are almost identical in nutrition. Both are used in small amounts, so they contribute almost no macronutrients or micronutrients.

Balsamic Vinegar

Balsamic vinegar can be used as a substitute for apple cider vinegar when making salad dressings or vinaigrette. It’s made from grape juice and has a similar fruity undertone as ACV. However, the flavor is sharper, sweeter, and tarter. It can also be described as wine-like, which makes it great for cooking.

Balsamic vinegar has slightly higher calories (energy) than other vinegar, but it still contains a small number of macronutrients.

Red Wine Vinegar

There are many types and varieties of vinegar. It can be hard to tell which one is which. Red wine vinegar is distinguished by its deep red color, and tangy taste. It is fermented red wine, as the name suggests. It does not contain more than a few drops of alcohol and like other vinegar is not a significant source for macro and micronutrients.

Sherry Vinegar

Sherry vinegar is also made of wine, just like red wine vinegar. It is made from fermented Spanish sherry wines. Because sherry wine is often aged, it has a complex taste and is a great choice if you want a less strong vinegar.

It does not contain any significant amounts of micro- or macronutrients. Both apple cider vinegar, as well as sherry vinegar, are low in fat and carbohydrates. Sherry vinegar has slightly more sugars, calories, and protein than ACV.

Lemon Juice

Although there are many vinegar substitutes for ACV, it may not work for those who cannot eat vinegar because of intolerances. Lemon juice may be an option. It is fruity and acidic, just like ACV. One of the five basic tastes that ACV adds is sour. The same thing can be done with a squeeze of lemon juice.

Lemons can also be used to add micro and macro nutrition to dishes. However, even a tiny amount of lemon juice can provide a small amount of vitamin C.

A Final Thought

There are many types of vinegar that you can use as a substitute for apple cider vinegar in recipes, depending on personal preference and sensitivity. These substitutes may provide a similar sour flavor to apple cider vinegar in savory dishes.