Out of Red Wine Vinegar? Try These 4 Easy Swaps
Run out of red wine vinegar mid-recipe? No worries. We've got 4 tried-and-tested substitutes that actually work. Whether you're making a quick weeknight dinner or baking something special, these alternatives will save your dish. The most popular swap is white wine vinegar + splash red wine, which works great in cooking and savory dishes. Each substitute below includes exact measurements and tips so you know exactly what to do.
⚡ Quick Answer (30 sec read)
Use White wine vinegar + splash red wine instead. Use white wine vinegar with tiny splash red wine for color.
✅ 4 Tested Red Wine Vinegar Substitutes (With Exact Ratios)
1. White wine vinegar + splash red wine
CookingUse white wine vinegar with tiny splash red wine for color.
2. Apple cider vinegar
CookingUse 1:1 ratio. Slightly fruitier.
3. Balsamic vinegar (diluted)
CookingUse ½ balsamic + ½ water. Sweeter.
4. Sherry vinegar
CookingUse 1:1 ratio. More complex, nuttier.
Tips for Substituting Red Wine Vinegar
When cooking without red wine vinegar, taste as you go and adjust seasoning. Most substitutes work best when added at the same point in the recipe as the original ingredient. Don't be afraid to combine two substitutes for a closer match to the original flavor.
What NOT to Do When Substituting Red Wine Vinegar
- xDon't use the same amount without checking the ratio - some substitutes are stronger or weaker than red wine vinegar.
- xDon't substitute in recipes where red wine vinegar is the star ingredient - the difference will be too noticeable.
- xDon't combine multiple substitutes at once - pick one and adjust from there.
Quick Substitution Ratios
| Substitute | Amount for 1 cup Red Wine Vinegar | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| White wine vinegar + splash red wine | Use white wine vinegar with tiny splash red wine for color | cooking |
| Apple cider vinegar | Use 1:1 ratio | cooking |
| Balsamic vinegar (diluted) | Use ½ balsamic + ½ water | cooking |
| Sherry vinegar | Use 1:1 ratio | cooking |
Safety Tips
- 1.Always check for allergies - if someone is allergic to red wine vinegar, they may also react to certain substitutes like nut-based alternatives.
- 2.When baking, substitutes can affect rising and texture. Test with a small batch first if making for an important occasion.
- 3.Check expiration dates on substitutes - using fresh ingredients ensures the best flavor and food safety.
Related for Red Wine Vinegar
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best substitute for red wine vinegar?
The best substitute for red wine vinegar is White wine vinegar + splash red wine. Use white wine vinegar with tiny splash red wine for color. This works well in most recipes that call for red wine vinegar.
Can I use white instead of red wine vinegar?
Yes, white wine vinegar + splash red wine is an excellent substitute for red wine vinegar. Use white wine vinegar with tiny splash red wine for color.
What can I use instead of red wine vinegar in cooking?
For cooking, try: White wine vinegar + splash red wine, Apple cider vinegar, Balsamic vinegar (diluted). These substitutes work well in savory dishes, sauces, and everyday cooking.
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