Vinegar; Rice Vinegar; Black Rice Vinegar; Apple Cider Vinegar

Vinegar is acetic acid. Most vinegars are diluted to about 3½ percent acetic acid. Vinegar is made by fermenting a sweet liquid such as wine or apple cider. The best rice vinegar is brewed; Japanese brands are very reliable. Try to avoid “seasoned vinegars”; they have salt and sugar in them and so the seasonings in the recipes will no longer be appropriate. Black rice vinegar is made of black rice water and salt. Check the label and avoid any that contain caramel or other non-rice ingredients.