Wine vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
Description
Wine or apple vinegar is a sour, fresh addition with a fruity aroma; wine vinegar can range in color from light yellow to pink to red depending on the grape variety, while apple vinegar usually has a warm, amber hue and can be cloudy when it contains the "mother." It has an intense, clean taste with delicate fruity and tannic notes (in the wine variants), which makes it well-suited to balance fatty and sweet ingredients. Nutritionally, vinegar provides virtually zero calories and almost no macronutrients; its most important component is acetic acid. When consumed in moderation, it may aid digestion, positively influence glucose metabolism, and have antibacterial properties, although it does not replace medical treatment. In the kitchen, it is used for dressings, marinades, deglazing, preservation, sauces, and lightly enhancing the flavors of soups or fruits; apple vinegar pairs well with poultry and vegetables, while wine vinegar complements salads and fish. It should be stored in a tightly sealed bottle, in a cool, dark place, avoiding prolonged contact with metal; it does not spoil quickly, and natural cloudiness does not indicate spoilage.