Raspberry Vinegar

Making raspberry vinegar at home is easier than you think! With just a handful of fresh raspberries, sugar and white wine vinegar, you’ll create a deliciously tangy and slightly sweet vinegar that can be used in all kinds of dishes. Whether you’re drizzling it over salads or turning it into a homemade vinaigrette, this raspberry vinegar is a flavorful addition to your pantry. Plus, it’s a fun way to use up any extra summer berries.

Ingredients for Raspberry Vinegar

• Fresh raspberries: These juicy berries give the vinegar a natural sweetness and vibrant color. Use the ripest berries you can find for the best flavor. Frozen raspberries work too if fresh ones aren’t available.
• White wine vinegar: The mild acidity of white wine vinegar blends perfectly with the sweetness of the raspberries, creating a balanced and flavorful base.
• Sugar: Sugar adds just the right amount of sweetness to balance the tartness of the vinegar. Feel free to adjust the sugar level to your taste.

Directions

Step 1: Prep the raspberries

Rinse the fresh raspberries gently under cold water and let them air-dry on paper towels. Once dry, place the raspberries in a 6-cup jar and set them aside.

Step 2: Heat the vinegar mixture

In a large saucepan, combine the white wine vinegar and sugar. Heat the mixture over low heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar dissolves. Be sure not to let it boil—just heat it until it’s hot and the sugar is fully incorporated.

Step 3: Steep the berries

Carefully pour the hot vinegar mixture over the raspberries in the jar. Cover the jar tightly and let it stand at room temperature for 48 hours. The berries will infuse the vinegar with their bright, tangy flavor during this time.

Step 4: Strain and store

After 48 hours, strain the vinegar through several layers of cheesecloth into a sterilized bottle or jar. Seal the container with a cork or lid and store it in a cool, dark place until you’re ready to use it.

Raspberry Vinegar Variations

• Make it into vinaigrette: Whisk in some olive oil to your raspberry vinegar for a tangy and sweet homemade vinaigrette. Perfect for drizzling over leafy greens or roasted veggies.
• Add herbs: Toss in a sprig of fresh thyme or rosemary when you steep the raspberries for an extra layer of flavor.
• Swap the berries: Try using blackberries or blueberries for a different fruity twist on this recipe.

How to Store Raspberry Vinegar

After straining, seal the raspberry vinegar tightly in a sterilized bottle or jar. Store it in a cool, dark place like your pantry or a cupboard and it’ll keep for up to six months.

Can you freeze raspberry vinegar?

Freezing raspberry vinegar isn’t necessary. Yet, you can freeze it in an airtight container if you’d like to store it long-term. Just thaw it in the fridge before using.

Raspberry Vinegar Recipe Tips

How do you make raspberry vinaigrette?

To make raspberry vinaigrette, whisk together three parts raspberry vinegar with one part olive oil. For extra flavor, add a teaspoon of Dijon mustard and a drizzle of honey. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

What can I use raspberry vinegar for?

Raspberry vinegar is perfect for making salad dressings, marinades or drizzling over roasted vegetables. It’s also great for brightening up sauces or adding a sweet-tangy note to cocktails.

Can I use other kinds of vinegar for this recipe?

Yes! You can use apple cider vinegar or champagne vinegar for a slightly different flavor. Just make sure to adjust the sugar to balance the acidity.

Can I adjust the sweetness in raspberry vinegar?

Definitely! Reduce the amount of sugar if you prefer a less sweet vinegar. You can also add more sugar if you like it on the sweeter side—just taste as you go to find your perfect balance.