Apple cider vinegar is a great addition to your cooking and baking because it gives food a tangy, sour flavor. However, if you have a sensitive stomach or are on a low-acid diet then it may not be right for you.
Read on as we explore apple cider vinegar substitute as well as ways to use it so you can still enjoy those delicious recipes!
The most popular substitute is white vinegar. It has a milder flavor and can be used in both sweet and savory dishes. That’s not the only substitute though.
But first…
Apple Cider Vinegar What Is It?
Apple cider vinegar is a natural product that can help you with your weight loss goals. It’s been used for centuries and has many benefits, including helping to reduce blood sugar levels and cholesterol.
It also helps prevent heartburn and acid reflux, which means it could be helpful if you suffer from indigestion or bloating after eating certain foods.
It is a popular ingredient that can be used in both sweet and savory dishes and even cleaning. You can add it to salad dressings and marinades, use it as a base for black beans or vegetables, and even drink it with water.
10 Best Apple Cider Vinegar Replacement
1) Rice Wine Vinegar
Best sweet replacement
- Rice wine vinegar has a very mild flavor and can be used in a variety of sweet and savory dishes, just like apple cider vinegar. It is made from rice and water instead of apples so it does not have the same health benefits as apple cider vinegar.
- The taste is close enough though that you may not notice much difference when cooking with it.
- It’s available at most grocery stores and can be used interchangeably with apple cider vinegar in your favorite dishes.
2) Champagne Vinegar
Best for salads
- Champagne vinegar is a light, less fruity vinegar that is perfect for adding flavor to salad dressings.
- It has a similar acidity taste to apple cider vinegar and can be used as a substitute for it in your salads and side dishes.
3) White Wine Vinegar
Best sharpness replacement
- White Wine Vinegar is similar in that it has an acidic taste, but it is milder with a hint of sweetness. You can sweeten it with a little fruit juice if you wish.
- White wine vinegar is less fruity in flavor as apple cider vinegar. It is recommended to add fresh lime, lemon, or orange juice to the mixture.
- White wine vinegar is a good substitute by using a 1:1 ratio.
4) Sherry Vinegar
- Has an intense, distinctive flavor with the same acidic profile as apple cider vinegar.
- It is a good idea to taste some sherry vinegar first, so you can decide if you like it. If you enjoy it, then you may use a substitute of 2:1. If the flavor does not suit your taste buds, but has no alternative, use a 1:1 ratio instead.
- It is used as a substitute for apple cider vinegar in salads and other foods, but it is best used as a marinade for meat.
5) Lime Juice
Best budget-friendly substitute
- If you don’t have vinegar, a squeeze or two of lime can be used to add freshness to your dish similar to what apple cider vinegar does.
- It can be used in sauces, dressings, and any other dishes that require a little acidity. It is a cheap alternative to apple cider vinegar for marinades and salad dressings.
- Use a 1:1 ratio of fresh limes in your recipes so that you don’t make your food too sour and you can still enjoy the flavors of your dish.
6) Balsamic Vinegar
Famous in the pantry alternative
- Balsamic vinegar can be found in most households and is an excellent alternative. It can also be put to use in salad dressings.
- Balsamic vinegar can be sweeter than other kinds of vinegar so adjust the amount to suit your taste. You should use a ratio of 1 to 1.
- Balsamic vinegar is also darker and more opaque so it can affect the color of dishes.
7) Malt Vinegar
Best fried food alternative
- Malt vinegar is great for pairing with crisp foods and all things fried such as fish and chips.
- It is made from malted barley, giving it a unique flavor profile (yeasty taste) that is different from apple cider vinegar and other types of vinegar that have fruity flavors.
- Substitute using a ratio of 1:1.
8) White Vinegar
Best substitute in baking
- White vinegar is another good option if you are looking for an apple cider vinegar substitute. It has a slightly sweet taste and can be used in both sweet and savory dishes.
- White vinegar, while neutral in flavor, is very acidic and should be used in a 1:1 ratio.
- Add some fresh lemon juice to bring out the fruity taste to make it more like apple cider Vinegar.
9) Apple Juice
Similar fruity flavor
- It doesn’t provide the same level of acidity as vinegar, but apple juice can add a touch of sweetness and fruity taste to your dish and is another viable option if you are looking for an apple cider vinegar substitute.
- Use it in savory recipes with a splash of other vinegar or citrus juice to add acidity.
- Use 2 tbsps of apple juice for 1 tbsp of acv, or a 2:1 mix.
10) Grapefruit Juice
Another citrus option
- If you are looking for a substitute with a fruity flavor, grapefruit juice is a good option. It has a tart and tangy flavor that can brighten up your dish.
- You can use it in combination with other kinds of vinegar or juices to add more flavor.
- Use 1 tbsp of grapefruit juice for every tablespoon of acv.
People Also Ask
Can You Use Regular Vinegar Instead Of Apple Cider Vinegar?
While you can use regular vinegar in place of apple cider vinegar, it will not have the same flavor or properties. Regular vinegar is not as acidic as apple cider vinegar and does not have the same health benefits. It is also not recommended for use in baking.
Can I Substitute Lemon Juice For Apple Cider Vinegar?
Yes, lemon juice is a good substitute for apple cider vinegar. It has a similar flavor and can be used in both sweet and savory dishes. Be sure to adjust the amount to taste as lemon juice is sourer than apple cider vinegar. Use a ratio of 1:1 for substitution.
Can I Substitute Apple Juice For Apple Cider Vinegar?
Yes, you can substitute apple juice for apple cider vinegar in most recipes. It will not have the same level of acidity as vinegar, but it will add sweetness and a fruity flavor to your dish. Use a 2:1 mix for substitution.
What Is The Function Of Apple Cider Vinegar In Baking Recipes?
Apple cider vinegar is used as a leavening agent in baking recipes. It helps to create carbon dioxide gas bubbles which help to leaven and lighten baked goods. This gives them a more fluffy texture. It can also be used as a substitute for other types of vinegar. Be sure to adjust the amount to taste.
Conclusion
Apple cider vinegar is a popular home ingredient for many things, but if you can’t find it or don’t want to buy it, there are plenty of apple cider vinegar substitutes that will work just as well.
Our 10 different replacements mentioned above are worth trying out, and each has its unique flavor and properties that can add something special to your dish.
With very similar acidity levels and taste, my top choice and number 1 go-to is rice wine vinegar. It works just as well in dishes such as salad dressing, and marinades.
White wine vinegar is a close second sharing the same sharpness as apple cider vinegar, making it a great choice for vinaigrettes or pickling.
That said, these are all still great alternatives that you can use if needed. Just try to follow the given ratios here and adjust according to your flavor preference.
Keep trying until you find an apple cider vinegar substitute that works perfectly for you!
Which is your favorite apple cider replacement?
Thanks for reading and share your thoughts or comments below.
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