Which vinegar?

[PrettyCandles]

In my kitchen the vinegar lives under the sink with the rest of the cleaning chemicals, though there is a little bottle of the malt stuff lurking at the back of the cupboard for dh to put on his chips. I don't eat it.

But, just occasionally, I fancy a little something sharp on sliced cucumber.

So, what vinegar should I buy? As it's only for the occasional treat I don't mind buying something 'premium'.

Organic apple or cider vinegar. It's the only type of vinegar that doesn't have an acidifying effect on your system.

and it's good for taking the sting out of insect bites, wasp and bee stings and mouth ulcers too.

A good red wine or sherry vinegar - good for dressings & in cooking.

Balsamic - good for dressings, cooking, dipping, drizzling....

Tbh I'm a bit of a hypocrite as I think I've actually run out (adds to shopping list)

Balsamic - also lovely on sliced tomatoes sprinkled with chopped chives.

Actually, I do have a bottle of balsamic - I had forgotten all about it. I bought a bottle in Modena 20y ago. Wwhen it ran out I tried several different balsamics bought here in the UK, but they all tasted thin and harsh, nothing like the sweet sharp richness of the Italian one. So I've given up on balsamic as a dressing on its own.

How do I know whether a red wine or sherry vinegar is 'good'?

Balsamic. It's so gorgeous I very occasionally pour myself a glass!

xpost

The balsamic you have bought since was probably a cheaper version of the one you already had. You generally need to spend quite a bit for a decent balsamic.

I love balsamic and sherry vinegars. Also use cider vinegars for when I make certain curry (has the correct tang). And sarsons for me chips

Best red wine vinegar is Forum (I think!), generally anything that's more than the bog standard supermarket brand will be nice (a bit smoother, nicer flavour).

I totally agree about some balsamic being disappointing - apart from really ££ ones or ones I've bought in Italy, I think the best one that's widely available here is the Belazu brand. It's really rich and thick, lovely in dressings, cooking or for dipping bread along with good olive oil. Have just realised I've run out so will get some more this pm!

I like a lot of Belazu products, their pickled lemons are fantastic in fish soups and roast chicken.

Agree, all v good quality but I was particularly impressed with the balsamic, really nice. Hope you find something you like!