Balsamic Vinegar Substitutes: 8 Simple Alternatives

Balsamic vinegar is a go-to ingredient for adding depth and balance to dishes, from salads to glazes. However, even the most well-stocked kitchen can run out at the worst moment. When that happens, don’t worry – there are several easy substitutes that can step in without compromising flavor.

Here’s how to find the best alternative for your recipe.

What Makes Balsamic Vinegar Special?

Balsamic vinegar stands out for its rich, balanced flavor – sweet, tangy, and slightly earthy. Made from freshly crushed grapes (grape must), it gains depth through aging, creating a complex taste that enhances many dishes. When you’re out of balsamic vinegar, the key to a good substitute is finding one that captures these same qualities.

8 Best Substitutes for Balsamic Vinegar

Here’s a rundown of the top alternatives and how to use them effectively in your recipes.

1. Red Wine Vinegar with Honey or Sugar

Red wine vinegar has a similar tangy flavor to balsamic vinegar. Adding a little sugar or honey helps recreate its natural sweetness, making this a great substitute for dressings, marinades, and sauces.

• How to Use: Mix 1 tablespoon of red wine vinegar with 1 teaspoon of sugar or honey. Stir well until fully dissolved for a smooth consistency.
• Best For: Salad dressings, glazes, and roasted vegetables where a balance of tangy and sweet is needed.

2. Apple Cider Vinegar with Honey or Maple Syrup

Apple cider vinegar has a natural fruity tang, making it a great base for a balsamic substitute. Adding honey or maple syrup balances the acidity with sweetness, creating a well-rounded flavor.

• How to Use: Mix 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar with 1 teaspoon of honey or maple syrup.
• Best For: Salad dressings, marinades, roasted vegetables, and glazes. Adjust the sweetness to taste!

3. White Vinegar or White Wine Vinegar with Sweetener

White vinegar and white wine vinegar provide acidity but lack the natural sweetness of balsamic vinegar. Adding maple syrup or sugar helps create a more balanced flavor.

• How to Use: Mix 1 tablespoon of white or white wine vinegar with 1 to 1.5 teaspoons of maple syrup or sugar. Stir well until fully dissolved.
• Best For: Vinaigrettes, dipping sauces, roasted meats, and dessert toppings.

4. Sherry Vinegar

Sherry vinegar is made from Spanish wine and has a complex, deep flavor profile similar to balsamic vinegar, though it’s slightly less sweet. It’s perfect for dishes where you want the tangy bite of vinegar with a subtle sweetness.

• How to Use: You can swap sherry vinegar for balsamic vinegar on a 1:1 basis.
• Best for: Soups, stews, marinades, and salad dressings.

5. Soy Sauce and Lemon Juice

For recipes that require more savory depth, soy sauce and lemon juice can be an unexpected yet effective substitute. Mix equal parts soy sauce and lemon juice to balance salty and tangy notes.

• Best for: Stir-fries and savory glazes.
• Pro Tip: Use low-sodium soy sauce to control the saltiness in your dish.

6. Lemon Juice and Olive Oil

For a lighter alternative, mix lemon juice with olive oil. It won’t taste like balsamic vinegar, but the tangy citrus and rich oil create a well-balanced flavor for many dishes.

• How to Use: For each tablespoon of balsamic vinegar, mix 1 tablespoon of lemon juice with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Adjust to taste for more acidity or richness.
• Best For: Salads, grilled chicken, and vegetable dishes.

7. Lemon Juice and Brown Sugar

If you’re in a pinch and only have basic ingredients, lemon juice and brown sugar can save your dish. Mix 1 tablespoon of lemon juice with 1 teaspoon of brown sugar for a quick fix.

• Best for: Light salad dressings or refreshing beverages.
• Pro Tip: Heat the mixture slightly to dissolve the sugar fully.

8. Pomegranate Molasses

Pomegranate molasses has a tangy sweetness that closely matches balsamic vinegar. Its rich, syrupy texture makes it a great alternative.

• How to Use: Use it in equal amounts as balsamic vinegar. If it’s too thick, mix it with a bit of water to thin it out.
• Best For: Glazes, drizzles, and roasted dishes.

When to Use Each Balsamic Vinegar Substitute

Picking the right substitute depends on your dish. Here’s a quick guide:

• For Sweetness and Tang: Red wine vinegar with honey or sugar is the closest match.
• For a Fruity Touch: Apple cider vinegar with maple syrup adds natural sweetness.
• For a Rich, Complex Flavor: Sherry vinegar offers depth with less sweetness.
• For a Light, Fresh Option: Lemon juice and olive oil work well in delicate dishes.
• For a Versatile Swap: White wine vinegar with sugar blends easily into most recipes.

Tips for Cooking with Substitutes

• Taste as You Go: Always taste your dish as you add the substitute. Different vinegars have different acidity levels, and adjusting the sweetness might be necessary to balance the flavors.
• Consider the Dish: Think about the role balsamic vinegar plays in your recipe. If it’s meant to be a tangy dressing, you might need a stronger vinegar like red wine vinegar. For a marinade, a sweeter option like apple cider vinegar with maple syrup could work better.
• Adjust Quantities: Depending on the substitute you choose, you may need to adjust the amount to get the desired balance of acidity and sweetness.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use rice vinegar as a substitute for balsamic vinegar?

Yes, but it’s much milder. Pairing rice vinegar with a sweetener like honey or brown sugar works best for balancing flavors.

Is balsamic glaze the same as balsamic vinegar?

No, but you can use it as a substitute. Balsamic glaze is more concentrated and sweet, so use it sparingly compared to regular balsamic vinegar.

Are there substitutes for balsamic vinegar in baking?

Yes! Apple cider vinegar and molasses can work in equal parts in baking recipes that call for balsamic vinegar.

See Also – 13 Best Champagne Vinegar Substitutes

Final Thoughts

When you’re in a pinch and can’t find balsamic vinegar, it’s not the end of the world. Whether you’re trying red wine vinegar with honey or using the fruity combination of apple cider vinegar and maple syrup, there are plenty of alternatives that can work just as well.

The next time you run out of balsamic vinegar, try one of these substitutes. You’ll find that you can still create delicious, balanced dishes without missing a beat.