Chili Vinegar
A spicy, tangy chili vinegar infused with red chili peppers, perfect for adding heat and flavor to dishes or as a condiment for those who love bold tastes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Steep four red chili peppers in the vinegar.
- Cool and transfer the mixture to a jar; let it age for about 20 days.
- Shake the jar daily to distribute flavors.
- Strain off the peppers and store the chili vinegar in the refrigerator.
Tips & Substitutions
For a milder flavor, use fewer chili peppers or remove the seeds before steeping. Consider experimenting with different types of vinegar, like rice or apple cider vinegar, for varied taste profiles. If you want additional flavor, add garlic or herbs like oregano during steeping. This chili vinegar can be a great addition to dressings, especially in a Sweet And Tart Salad.
Serving Suggestions
Use this chili vinegar to add a spicy kick to dishes like grilled meats or roasted vegetables. It also makes a fantastic dressing for salads, enhancing flavors when drizzled over a No-Fat Three Bean Salad. Pair it with rice dishes or as a condiment for tacos to really elevate your meals.
Storage & Reheating
Store the chili vinegar in a cool, dark place or in the refrigerator to prolong its shelf life. Make sure the jar is tightly sealed. The vinegar can last for several months, but for the best flavor, use it within three months. Always shake well before using, as sediments may settle.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chili Vinegar contains roughly 107 calories, with 1g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (11% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (10% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use dried chili peppers instead of fresh ones?
Yes, you can use dried chili peppers if fresh ones are unavailable. Just use fewer, as dried peppers can be more concentrated in flavor. Soak them in vinegar for a longer time to extract their heat and flavor effectively, adjusting steeping time according to your taste preference.
How spicy will the chili vinegar be after aging?
The spiciness of the chili vinegar will depend on the type of chili peppers used and how long they steep. Generally, after 20 days, the flavor will be pleasantly spicy but not overwhelming. If you prefer a hotter vinegar, consider adding more peppers or letting it steep longer.
What dishes can I use chili vinegar in?
Chili vinegar is versatile and can be used in various dishes. It’s excellent for drizzling over grilled meats, adding to marinades, or mixing into dressings. You might also enjoy it in dipping sauces or even as a zesty addition to soups. Try it in a bold Cranberry Barbecue Sauce for a unique twist.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).