See also vinegar.
Rice wine vinegar (also called “rice vinegar”) has many uses, but is most commonly an addition to Asian dishes. It provides a complementary balance to fish sauces, chile oils, and sweet flavorings such as honey.
Use this type of vinegar for its mildness, which is significant compared to those made from white or red wine.
Rice wine vinegar is available in red, black, and white, which can be clear or amber in color. The latter (white) is the most readily available. Black vinegar is popular with Chinese cooks for stir-frying.
All are made from fermented rice wine and are either seasoned (usually with a sweetener) or unseasoned. Seasoned flavorings include garlic, red pepper flakes, basil, and oregano.
The Japanese use a much lighter version. Mirin is one type that is popular for sushi dishes.
Korean brands are the strongest in flavor.
There is often confusion between rice wine and rice wine vinegar. The two should not be used interchangeably. Remember that vinegar is fermented and will spoil a recipe that requires wine.
It will keep about one year unopened in the pantry. Once opened, use it within six months.
Any light, white flavored vinegar can be interchanged, with the exception of regular distilled vinegar.
Try one of our favorite rice wine vinegar recipes:
Tiem Shuen Gee Yok (Sweet and Sour Pork)
Japanese Steakhouse style Zucchini and Onions
Marinated Tuna #1
View BigOven's rice-wine-vinegar recipes