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Made
from the cider of fermented apple juice, cider vinegar adds a
refreshingly tart flavor to dressings, dips, meat marinades and stews.
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See also vinegar.
Also
known as apple cider vinegar, this acidic liquid is made from the cider
of fermented apple juice. It has a pale golden color and a tart, fruity
flavor that makes it a suitable dipping or topping condiment or
ingredient in salad dressings,
marinades, pickles, chutneys and
stews. It is the most popular
vinegar used for cooking in the United States.
A Little Bite of History
Ancient civilizations as far back as the Sumerians used vinegar as a
condiment, preservative, medicine and detergent, much as we do today.
The Babylonians made and sold vinegars flavored with malt and fruit
almost five thousand years ago. Around 400 B.C., the great Hippocrates
was said to have prescribed a mixture of cider vinegar and
honey
to cure coughs and colds. Vinegar is also mentioned as a food
flavoring, energizing drink and medicine in the old and new testaments
of the Bible.
Buying Tips
Look for cider vinegar labeled "raw," which means it's unfiltered and
unpasteurized. It will be slightly cloudier than the filtered variety,
but it will carry a fruiter
apple flavor.
Storage Tips
Cider vinegar is self-preserving and does not require refrigeration.
Store in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. Unopened, it will
keep indefinitely. Once opened, it will keep about six months.
Usage Tips
Cider vinegar has a tart, tangy flavor making it delicious in
vinaigrettes, especially for
tossed salads with fruits or hard cheeses. It's also a great tenderizer for meats, as it works to break down protein fibers. Add to
braising liquids,
deglaze a pan for
pork chops or mix with
herbs for a simple marinade.
Cider
vinegar is also particularly useful when preparing
potatoes. Adding one
teaspoon to your boiling cooking water will keep them nice and white.
Prevent peeled potatoes from darkening by covering with water mixed
with two teaspoons of vinegar. A splash or spray will also brighten the
flavor of your favorite cooked French fries.
Note: When using vinegar, choose pots and utensils made of non-reactive materials like stainless steel, glass, enamel, plastic or wood.
Substitution Tips
Cider vinegar is interchangeable with malt or white
vinegars in most recipes.
