Flavored vinegars are a simple and effective way to elevate your culinary creations. They’re versatile, easy to make, and can instantly add depth to your dressings, marinades, or even cocktails. Best of all, you can customize the flavors to suit your taste preferences, using herbs, fruits, spices, and more. Here are two easy DIY flavored vinegar recipes to get you started on adding a burst of flavor to your dishes.

1. Garlic and Herb Infused Vinegar

Garlic and herb-infused vinegar is a classic option that pairs beautifully with fresh salads, grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or as a marinade for chicken or fish. The rich, earthy flavor of garlic combined with the aromatic notes of herbs makes this vinegar a kitchen staple for adding savory depth to your cooking.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar
• 4-5 cloves garlic, smashed
• 3 sprigs fresh rosemary
• 3 sprigs fresh thyme
• 1-2 sprigs fresh oregano (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon black peppercorns
• 1 tablespoon mustard seeds (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a clean, dry jar (preferably glass), place the smashed garlic cloves, rosemary, thyme, oregano (if using), peppercorns, and mustard seeds.
2. Heat the vinegar in a saucepan over medium heat until it begins to steam, but not boil. This will help release the flavors more effectively.
3. Pour the warm vinegar over the herbs and garlic in the jar, ensuring everything is fully submerged.
4. Seal the jar tightly with a lid and place it in a cool, dark spot to infuse for 2-3 weeks. The longer you let it sit, the more intense the flavor will become.
5. After the infusion period, strain the vinegar through a fine-mesh strainer to remove the solid ingredients.
6. Transfer the infused vinegar to a clean bottle and store it in a cool place. You can use it immediately, but the flavor continues to improve over time.

This garlic and herb-infused vinegar can be used in dressings, marinades, and even as a simple addition to steamed vegetables or grain bowls for an extra burst of flavor.

2. Citrus and Ginger Infused Vinegar

If you’re craving a tangy, fresh vinegar with a bit of zing, citrus and ginger-infused vinegar is a wonderful option. The bright citrus notes of lemon, lime, or orange combined with the warmth of ginger create a fragrant, flavorful vinegar that’s perfect for Asian-inspired marinades, seafood dishes, or as a unique dressing for salads.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups rice vinegar or white wine vinegar
• 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, thinly sliced
• 1 orange, peeled and sliced (or 1 lemon, for a more tart flavor)
• 1-2 sprigs fresh mint (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)

Instructions:

1. Begin by preparing the ingredients: thinly slice the ginger, peel and slice the orange (or lemon), and optionally add fresh mint for an herbal note.
2. In a clean glass jar, add the ginger, citrus slices, and mint (if using). If you like a bit of heat, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes as well.
3. Heat the vinegar in a saucepan until it just begins to steam. Pour the warm vinegar over the ingredients in the jar.
4. Seal the jar tightly and let the mixture infuse for about 1-2 weeks in a cool, dark place.
5. After the infusion period, strain out the solids using a fine-mesh strainer, and transfer the flavored vinegar to a clean bottle.
6. Allow the vinegar to sit for another few days to meld the flavors before using.

This citrus and ginger-infused vinegar adds a refreshing tang to dressings, perfect for drizzling over a fresh salad or using as a marinade for grilled shrimp, chicken, or tofu. The ginger adds a warming touch, making it perfect for cooler weather dishes.