The Best Apple Cider Vinegar Substitutes
Need apple cider vinegar for a recipe? Learn how to seamlessly substitute white wine vinegar, rice vinegar, or lemon juice.
Best substitutes
| Replace with | Ratio | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| White Wine Vinegar | 1 Tbsp | dressings, marinades, baking |
| Unseasoned Rice Vinegar | 1 Tbsp | sauces, Asian dishes |
| Lemon Juice | 1 Tbsp (maybe add a pinch of sugar) | salads, marinades |
Why Apple Cider Vinegar?
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is prized for its fruity, slightly sweet undertones and moderate acidity (usually around 5%). It doesn’t have the harsh, biting sting of distilled white vinegar. It is incredibly versatile, used in everything from salad dressings and BBQ sauces to vegan baking (where it reacts with baking soda to leaven cakes). When substituting, you want to match its mild acidity and subtle fruitiness.
The Closest Match: White Wine Vinegar
White wine vinegar is the absolute best 1:1 substitute for apple cider vinegar. It shares the same mild acidity and delicate, fruity flavor profile. It will blend seamlessly into vinaigrettes, marinades, and sauces without overpowering the other ingredients.
Rice Vinegar (Unseasoned)
Rice vinegar (specifically the unseasoned variety) is another fantastic 1:1 alternative. It is very mild and slightly sweet, making it an excellent stand-in. Warning: Ensure you are not using “seasoned” rice vinegar, which has large amounts of added salt and sugar intended for sushi rice and will ruin your recipe.
Lemon or Lime Juice
If you don’t have any suitable vinegar, fresh citrus juice is a great alternative. Lemon juice provides the necessary acidity with a bright, fruity punch. Because lemon juice is slightly more acidic and distinct in flavor, you may want to use a tiny bit less or balance it with a pinch of sugar. It is an exceptional substitute in salad dressings and marinades.
What About Distilled White Vinegar?
Distilled white vinegar is extremely harsh and lacks any subtle flavor notes. If it is your only option, do not use it 1:1. For every 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar required, use 1/2 tablespoon of white vinegar mixed with 1/2 tablespoon of water, and add a tiny pinch of sugar to mimic the apple’s sweetness.