Blueberry vinegar is a flavored vinegar made by steeping fresh or frozen blueberries in vinegar for some time.
Infusing vinegar with blueberries allows the natural flavors and colors of the fruit to blend with the tangy acidity of the vinegar, resulting in a delicious and fragrant ingredient perfect for many dishes.
Blueberry vinegar is excellent for various recipes, such as salad dressings, marinades, sauces, or even refreshing drinks when mixed with sparkling water. It is a versatile condiment that adds a unique flavor to both sweet and savory dishes.
Why make it?
- Flavor: Blueberry vinegar has a unique and delicious taste that adds complexity and depth to many dishes. It is a great way to incorporate blueberries’ bright and fruity flavor into your cooking.
- Health benefits: Blueberries are a good source of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that may have health benefits. Infusing vinegar with blueberries can create a flavorful ingredient with potential health benefits.
- Versatility: It can be used in various culinary applications, from salad dressings and marinades to sauces and glazes. It is delicious with both sweet and savory dishes.
- Sustainability: If you have an abundance of fresh blueberries on hand, making it is a great way to use them up and reduce food waste. It is also a way to use seasonal produce and preserve it for later use.
What you need
- Blueberries – fresh or frozen, thawed berries will work for this recipe. Any variety will work, even wild blueberries and huckleberries.
- White vinegar- You can use white wine vinegar, champagne vinegar, or just plain old 5% acidity white vinegar, which is the cheapest option. We don’t recommend darker vinegar such as balsamic vinegar, red wine vinegar, or apple cider vinegar. The flavor will be fine, but the color is much nicer with clear vinegar.
- Sugar- Omit sugar, if you would prefer. Or adjust the sugar to use less of it. You could also use a sugar substitute such as honey or agave.
How to make it
Step One
Add the sugar to a medium saucepan.
Step Two
Add the vinegar to the pan.
Heat over medium-low heat until the sugar melts. Stir it so that the sugar doesn’t stick to the pan.
Step Three
Wash the raspberries. Place them in a large glass mason jar.
If you’re using previously frozen berries, place them in a bowl and refrigerate overnight to thaw.
Step Four
Pour the sweetened vinegar over the berries in the jar. Cover the jar with a non-metallic lid. Let the jar steep in your pantry or a dark closet for about seven days.
Step Five
Pour the vinegar through a fine-meshed strainer to remove the solids and berries.
Then, pour the liquid vinegar into sterilized bottles to store.
How to use it
- Salad dressings: Blueberry vinegar is excellent as the base for a delicious and refreshing blueberry dressing. Whisk it with extra virgin olive oil, honey, and Dijon mustard for a bright, flavorful vinaigrette that pairs well with mixed greens, such as spinach, kale, leaf lettuce, nuts, and cheese, especially feta cheese, blue cheese, or goat cheese.
- Marinades: Use it to marinate meats, tofu, or vegetables. Mix it with garlic, soy sauce, and ginger for a flavorful and tangy marinade that will add depth and complexity to your dishes.
- Sauces and glazes: Use it to make a sweet and tangy sauce or glaze for meats, seafood, or vegetables. Cook it down with honey or maple syrup for a rich, flavorful glaze that will caramelize beautifully.
- Beverages: Make a refreshing and healthy drink commonly known as a shrub. Mix it with sparkling water, honey, and fresh herbs like mint or basil for a delicious and hydrating beverage.
- Desserts: Use it in desserts, such as drizzled-over vanilla ice cream or mixed into a fruit salad for a tangy twist.
- Gifting: Present pretty bottles of infused vinegar for a unique holiday or hostess presents.
Potential health benefits
Blueberry vinegar may offer several potential health benefits due to its combination of blueberries and vinegar. Here are a few:
- Antioxidants: Fresh Blueberries are a rich source of antioxidants. These compounds help protect your body from damage caused by harmful known as free radicals. Antioxidants may play a role in reducing the risk of diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and diabetes.
- Anti-inflammatory: Blueberries also contain anti-inflammatory compounds, which may help reduce inflammation and potentially lower the risk of chronic diseases.
- Digestion: The acidity in vinegar may help promote a healthy “gut” by stimulating the production of digestive enzymes in the stomach. This may help improve digestion and prevent digestive issues like bloating, gas, and constipation.
- Blood sugar: Some studies suggest that vinegar may help regulate blood sugar levels, which may benefit diabetics and those who may be at risk of developing the condition.
- Weight management: Some research suggests that vinegar may help with weight management by increasing feelings of fullness and reducing calorie intake.
It is worth noting that more research is needed to understand the potential health benefits of blueberry vinegar fully. Always consume foods in moderation as part of a well-balanced diet.
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Enjoy. And have fun cooking!
📖 Recipe
Blueberry Vinegar
Ingredients
- 3 cups blueberries, fresh or frozen
- 2 cups white vinegar
- 2 tablespoons Sugar up to ½ cup
Instructions
- Add sugar to the vinegar in small, non reactive pan over medium-low heat. Stir occasionally.2 cups white vinegar, 2 tablespoons Sugar
- Wash berries if using fresh. If using frozen, thaw them in the refrigerator.3 cups blueberries, fresh or frozen
- Add berries to a canning jar. Cover with paper towel, waxed paper or plastic wrap secured by a rubber band, or use plastic lid.
- Place in cool, dark place for about 7-14 days.
- Cut a piece of cheesecloth and line colander.
- Drain contents of jar into cheesecloth. Discard pulp.
- Store in clean, sterilized glass canning jar, in cool dark place for about 6 months.
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Uses for raspberry vinegar
- Blueberry vinaigrette
- Salad dressings -use whatever spices you like to make the dressing, like salt, pepper, dried parsley, and dill weed. Add a tablespoon of honey to make it a bit sweeter.
- A delicious dip for French fries
- Basting on chicken, venison, pork, or fish. It’s especially good when grilling
- Marinades
- Blueberry shrub and cocktails, and cordials
- It’s great on fresh vegetables like beets (beetroot)
- It’s said to be a great remedy for common colds, coughs, and sore throats. Just drink a tablespoon of raspberry vinegar straight, or add a tablespoon to a cup of hot water and drink it like tea.
Nutrition
Originally published May 5, 2023.
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