Sherry Vinegar Substitute

The list of gourmet wine vinegars cannot be complete without the one made from sherry. It is one of those ingredients which adds that gourmet touch to various dishes. Needless to say, the older and seasoned it is, the better it is. The best quality is characterized by a deep, complex flavor, which improves the taste of soups, stews, sauces, casseroles and dressings. But this fabulous taste notwithstanding, in case you do not have it, don't worry you can always use substitutes. What are they? Here is more on that!

Sherry Vinegar

It is also known as sherry wine vinegar or vinagre de Jeréz or Jerez vinegar or vinagre de Xeres and finally as Xeres vinegar. It is produced in Spain. For the quintessential sherry wine vinegar to be considered as vinagre de Jeré, it is mandatory that it is left to age in American oak for at least 6 months. Normally, ones that are aged with the help of the same system as used for sherry wines and Brandy de Jerez. The style of aging this vinegar depends on the variety of the grapes used for wine production and the consequent wine. It is nutty, warm and aromatic. Apparently this was discovered by the French chefs and according to a recent study, France was its largest market. The most common dish made using it is Gazpacho or Salmorejo. The aging process is very crucial when it is sherry wine.

Alternatives Available

Look out for balsamic vinegar. It is an Italian counterpart of one made with sherry. A traditional Italian product, balsamic vinegar is made using a reduction of cooked grape juice and is not exactly a type of vinegar. In addition to it, red or even white wine vinegar can double up as a substitute. Even rice vinegar can be used. Sometimes, you may even consider using Port, Madeira or Marsala. Sherry cooking wine can also be used in place of it. Using either of these would not be a problem but which one to use depends on what are you making. Wine based and cider vinegars are acidic than rice vinegar, which is mild. Green vegetables lose their color if acidic vinegar is used, therefore use them at the last minute.

Another important thing when you are looking for alternatives is to keep the color in mind. Sherry as well as balsamic vinegar are brown, which can tint food that is light in color, like pasta or even chicken. So, use minimum or use a light wine vinegar type. So, if you are considering putting sherry wine as an alternative, it may not be a good idea! Having said that, balsamic vinegar, though it is a good substitute, it is a little bit sweet. So, you perhaps would need to add a pinch of salt to counter the sweet taste.

At the end of the day, whatever suits you amongst these is great for your taste buds! Just keep in mind the dish you are cooking and you can have a tasty, succinct gourmet dish!