Chef's Secret: What Can You Really Do With Apple Cider Vinegar?

Apple cider vinegar is one of the most versatile ingredients in the kitchen. It not only enhances flavors but also acts as a tenderizer, cleaner, and balancer. Try incorporating it into recipes and different kitchen tasks, and you'll find it can become your secret to success! Here are some secrets and tips for using apple cider vinegar that showcase its amazing versatility. Professional chefs especially love it because it adds a subtle flavor to dishes and 'tempers' and refines overly strong flavors.

1. Enhancing Sauces and Marinades

What to Do?

• Add a tablespoon or two of apple cider vinegar to vinaigrette salad dressings to add a subtle acidity that balances sweetness and oil.
• Use it in marinades for meat, chicken, or tofu—it tenderizes the protein and adds a fresh taste.

Why It Works?
The acid in apple cider vinegar tenderizes the meat and helps spices absorb better, making the dishes juicy and full of flavor.

2. Balancing Flavors in Hot Dishes

What to Do?

• Add a few drops of apple cider vinegar to soups and stews, especially those with sweet ingredients like sweet potatoes or carrots, to balance the flavors.
• Use it in lentil, bean, or chickpea stews—it elevates the dish and reduces heaviness.

Why It Works?
The vinegar enhances the existing flavors in the dish and creates depth without overpowering.

3. Surprising Baking: A Secret Substitute

What to Do?

• Use apple cider vinegar to activate baking soda in vegan baking recipes (e.g., cakes or muffins).
• Substitute some of the lemon juice in tangy recipes to add richness to flavors.

Why It Works?
The acid reacts with baking soda, providing volume and lightness, especially in egg-free recipes.

4. Cleaning and Brightening Vegetables and Fruits

What to Do?

• Add a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar to the water when washing vegetables and fruits.
• Soak green vegetables like spinach and lettuce to remove dirt and pesticide residues.

Why It Works?
The vinegar assists in thorough cleaning thanks to its antibacterial properties.

5. Quick Homemade Pickles

What to Do?

• Use apple cider vinegar as part of your pickling liquid for homemade pickles (cucumbers, onions, or even carrots).
• Combine it with water, salt, and spices and soak the vegetables for several hours.

Why It Works?
The vinegar provides a subtle acidity that goes wonderfully with the sweetness of the vegetables.

6. Treating Excess Fat in Dishes

What to Do?

• If you've prepared a fatty dish, add a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar at the end of cooking to "cut" the fat and lighten the heaviness.

Why It Works?
The acidity balances the fat and adds a lightness to the flavors.

7. Cleaning Cutting Boards and Utensils

What to Do?

• After chopping meat, fish, or pungent vegetables (like onions and garlic), clean the cutting board with apple cider vinegar.
• Use it to remove tough food stains from utensils.

Why It Works?
The antiseptic properties of the vinegar aid in deep cleaning and neutralizing unpleasant odors.