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Best Substitutes for Balsamic Vinegar — What to Use Instead

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Red Wine Vinegar + Sugar: 1 tbsp red wine vinegar + 1/2 tsp sugar per 1 tbsp balsamic — Best flavor approximation. Add a drop of molasses for color and depth.

Apple Cider Vinegar + Molasses: 1 tbsp ACV + 1/2 tsp molasses — Mimics balsamic's sweetness and dark color. Works for dressings and marinades.

Overview

Top substitute for balsamic vinegar: Red Wine Vinegar + Sugar (1 tbsp red wine vinegar + 1/2 tsp sugar per 1 tbsp balsamic). Best flavor approximation. Add a drop of molasses for color and depth. Plus 3 more alternatives.

Key Details

  • Red Wine Vinegar + Sugar: 1 tbsp red wine vinegar + 1/2 tsp sugar per 1 tbsp balsamic — Best flavor approximation. Add a drop of molasses for color and depth.
  • Apple Cider Vinegar + Molasses: 1 tbsp ACV + 1/2 tsp molasses — Mimics balsamic's sweetness and dark color. Works for dressings and marinades.
  • Sherry Vinegar: 1:1 — Complex, slightly sweet vinegar. Closest in quality and depth.
  • Lemon Juice + Soy Sauce: 1 tsp lemon juice + 1/2 tsp soy sauce per 1 tbsp balsamic — Provides acidity and dark color. Unconventional but effective in dressings.

Why This Matters

  • Balsamic Vinegar may need substituting due to dietary restrictions
  • Running out of an ingredient mid-recipe is common
  • Allergies or preferences may require alternatives

How To

  1. 1Best overall substitute: Red Wine Vinegar + Sugar at 1 tbsp red wine vinegar + 1/2 tsp sugar per 1 tbsp balsamic
  2. 2Consider what role the ingredient plays in the recipe
  3. 3Test substitutes in small batches first
  4. 4Adjust other ingredients as noted for best results

Tags

substitutesveganbalsamic-vinegaringredient-swapcooking-tips

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Frequently Asked Questions

The best substitute is Red Wine Vinegar + Sugar at 1 tbsp red wine vinegar + 1/2 tsp sugar per 1 tbsp balsamic. Best flavor approximation. Add a drop of molasses for color and depth.