The 6 types of vinegar (and their characteristics)

Vinegar is a product made from fermentation. It is a liquid that produces a certain amount of alcohol during this process, although when we consume it it no longer has it. For many years this product was obtained sporadically from wine that, voluntarily or involuntarily, could turn sour.

Over time the multiple uses of vinegar were discovered, which are not limited in the field of gastronomy. If it is a product suitable for human consumption, some types of vinegar have other uses thanks to their characteristics.

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The 6 types of vinegar (and their characteristics)

It is believed that the origin of vinegar is due to the process that stored wine underwent. It was discovered that the wine underwent changes if it was in contact with oxygen, and over time the product was perfected. In general, the ripening phase of vinegar can take up to 6 months.

Several recognized varieties of this product have been developed around the world. Most of them are widely used in the gastronomy of different countries, some being highly appreciated for their characteristics. The different types of vinegar are shown below.

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1. White vinegar

White vinegar is one of the most popular types of vinegar. It is obtained from the fermentation of pure cane alcohol. White vinegar has the strongest flavor of all vinegar varieties, so it is sold very diluted.

Although white vinegar is used in gastronomy mainly as a dressing and for preserves, its most frequent use is in housework. Due to its origin, it is one of the least delicate types of vinegar in its aroma.

It can be used to wash colored clothes and restore intensity to tones. It is also used to clean bathroom furniture, and combined with hot water it can remove glue residue. If rusty objects are immersed in white vinegar it is possible to clean them so that they are as new.

2. Apple vinager

Apple cider vinegar is the most widely used in European cuisine. Its production is carried out from the fermentation of the apple in cider, which is why in some places it is known as cider vinegar.

It is widely used as a salad dressing and to make vinaigrettes, although it also has multiple uses for home and personal care. Apple cider vinegar can be used to clean surfaces such as bathrooms and to remove odors from carpets.

Another use for apple cider vinegar is in skin care. Applying a mask every night helps reduce acne and blemishes caused by the sun. It is also excellent if you wash your hair with a splash of apple cider vinegar, leaving it shiny and silky.

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3. Wine vinegar

Wine vinegar is said to be the most common of all types of vinegar.. This vinegar has not gone through the maturation phase that the preparation of vinegars usually has. However, this fact does not detract from quality, being one of the most used.

The first vinegars were the most similar to those of this type. It is widely used in cooking, especially in vinaigrettes, and it is for this reason that it is one of the most widely produced in the world.

Its uses also extend to home care and personal care, but a curious use of wine vinegar is that it can be used with paint. It allows a better adhesion, so it can be used as a sealer before applying paint. It can also be sprayed on plants to avoid pests.

4. Balsamic vinegar or balsamic vinegar

Balsamic or Modena vinegar is made from sugary grapes. The true balsamic vinegar has a maturation phase that goes from 12 to 25 years, some reaching 40 years. That is why its cost is much higher than that of the rest of the vinegars, although there are cheaper versions.

This type of vinegar is dark in color and strong in flavor. It is the protagonist of Italian cuisine, widely used in vinaigrettes and even in some dessert recipes. It is a vinegar that is used more in gastronomy, although it also has other uses.

Adding a few drops of balsamic vinegar to dog water can eliminate ticks and fleas. It is also used as a hair conditioner and facial mask, as well as for use after shaving.

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5. Rice vinegar

Rice vinegar is mild and is obtained from the fermentation of rice. It is the only vinegar used in traditional Japanese cuisine, and it is used to season various dishes such as sushi and steamed vegetables.

Its level of acidity is similar to apple cider vinegar, and its flavor resembles white vinegar although it is milder. Its use is much more common for food and it also has many health benefits.

Regular consumption of this type of vinegar improves the immune system thanks to the amino acids it contains. In addition, it helps to reduce premature aging, improves the absorption capacity of nutrients and takes care of the bacterial flora.

6. Sherry vinager

The flavor of sherry vinegar is stronger than that of the same wine. It is made exclusively from the production of wines from Jerez, the Spanish municipality located in the province of Cádiz. It is dark in color, with a strong aroma and flavor, and the wood flavor that it acquires in its maturation is easily perceived.

There are three types of Sherry vinegar according to the time that passes in the maturation phase. Aging can last 6 months, 2 years or 10 years (although there are some with an even greater maturation).

Sherry vinegar is commonly used in gastronomy. It is an essential product in Spanish cuisine, especially in southern Spain. It can be used in desserts and fruits, and in fact it can also be used in other ways like the rest of the wines.

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Bibliographic references

• Barlow, M. and Ashcraft, S. (2006). 101 Things to Do with a Salad: One Hundred One Things to Do With a Salad. Gibbs smith.

• Cerezo, A.B., Tesfaye, W., Torija, M.J., Estíbaliz, M. García-Parrilla, M.C and Troncoso, A.M. (2008). The phenolic composition of red wine vinegar produced in barrels made from different woods. Food Chemistry, 109 (3): 606–615.

• Susaeta Team (2009). The vinegar. Bilbao: Tikal-Susaeta.