Apple Cider Vinegar: Benefits And Uses

Apple cider vinegar has been used for since ancient times for its numerous health and medicinal benefits. It is made by fermenting apple juice with yeast and bacteria, resulting in a product that is high in acetic acid and beneficial bacteria.

In cooking, apple cider vinegar is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. It can be used as a salad dressing, marinade, or ingredient in sauces and stews. Additionally, it can be used as a natural food preservative and helps to balance pH levels in the body.

Origins and Production

Apple cider vinegar is made by fermenting apple juice. The process involves crushing fresh apples and extracting the juice. The juice is then mixed with yeast, which turns the natural sugars in the apple juice into alcohol through a process called fermentation. This is followed by a second fermentation process, in which bacteria called Acetobacter are added to the alcohol to convert it into acetic acid, the main active compound in vinegar.

Used for thousands of years, the tradition started with the ancient Greeks and Romans using it as a natural remedy for various ailments. It was also used in traditional medicine in China and Japan for its medicinal properties. Today, ACV is produced on a large scale and is widely available in grocery stores and online.

Uses in Cooking

ACV has become a popular ingredient in many recipes, particularly in salad dressings, marinades, and sauces. It adds a tangy, acidic flavour to dishes and can be used to enhance the flavour of meats, vegetables, and grains. Here are a few ways to use ACV in your cooking:

1. Salad Dressings - One of the most popular uses of apple cider vinegar is as a salad dressing ingredient. It's an excellent choice for vinaigrettes, as its acidity helps to balance out the sweetness of other ingredients like honey or balsamic vinegar. A simple vinaigrette can be made with ACV, olive oil, and Dijon mustard. For a fruitier dressing, mix apple cider vinegar with honey, orange juice, and poppy seeds.
2. Marinades - ACV is also a great choice for marinades, especially for tougher cuts of meat. Its acidic properties help to break down proteins and make meat more tender. A simple marinade for chicken can be made with ACV, olive oil, garlic, and dried herbs like thyme and rosemary. For a more Asian-inspired marinade, mix ACV with soy sauce, ginger, and honey.
3. Pickling - Pickling is another popular use of apple cider vinegar in British cooking. ACV's acidity helps to preserve vegetables and give them a tangy, pickled flavour. To make a simple pickle, mix apple cider vinegar with water, salt, and sugar, and pour the mixture over sliced cucumbers or carrots. Add a few sprigs of fresh dill or other herbs for extra flavour.
4. Baking - ACV is also a handy ingredient to have on hand for baking. When mixed with baking soda, it can be used as a substitute for baking powder in recipes. For vegan baking, ACV can be used as an egg substitute. Simply mix 1 tablespoon of ACV with 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and use the mixture in place of one egg in recipes.
5. Sauces - ACV is a key ingredient in many savoury sauces. It can be used to add acidity and flavour to barbecue sauce, hot sauce, and other condiments. To make a simple barbecue sauce, mix apple cider vinegar with ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and spices like smoked paprika and cumin.
6. Soups and Stews - Finally, ACV can be used to add flavour to soups and stews. It pairs well with savoury ingredients like meat and vegetables, and can add a tangy, acidic note to hearty dishes. To add ACV to a soup or stew, simply stir in a few tablespoons at the end of cooking.

Apple cider vinegar is not just a popular ingredient in cooking, it is also a popular household cleaning product. Its natural acidity and antibacterial properties make it an effective and eco-friendly cleaner for a range of surfaces. In this article, we'll explore some of the most common uses of apple cider vinegar in cleaning, along with specific examples of how to use it in your own home.

1. All-Purpose Cleaner - Apple cider vinegar can be used as an all-purpose cleaner for a range of surfaces, including countertops, floors, and walls. Mix equal parts apple cider vinegar and water in a spray bottle, and use it to clean and disinfect surfaces. For tougher stains, use undiluted apple cider vinegar.
2. Window and Glass Cleaner - Apple cider vinegar can be used as a streak-free cleaner for windows and glass surfaces. Mix 1-part apple cider vinegar with 4 parts water in a spray bottle, and use it to clean glass surfaces. Wipe with a microfiber cloth or newspaper for a streak-free finish.
3. Kitchen Appliances - Apple cider vinegar is a great cleaner for kitchen appliances like ovens, microwaves, and dishwashers. For ovens and microwaves, mix equal parts apple cider vinegar and water in a spray bottle, and use it to clean the inside and outside of the appliance. For dishwashers, pour 1 cup of apple cider vinegar into the bottom of an empty dishwasher, and run a cycle on the hottest setting.
4. Bathroom Surfaces - Apple cider vinegar is also an effective cleaner for bathroom surfaces like sinks, toilets, and shower stalls. Mix equal parts apple cider vinegar and water in a spray bottle, and use it to clean and disinfect bathroom surfaces. For tougher stains, use undiluted apple cider vinegar.
5. Laundry - Apple cider vinegar can also be used as a laundry aid. It can help to remove odours and soften fabrics. Add 1/2 cup of apple cider vinegar to the rinse cycle of your washing machine, and enjoy fresher, softer laundry.

Tips for Using Apple Cider Vinegar

• When using apple cider vinegar as a cleaner, be sure to test it on a small, inconspicuous area first. Some surfaces may be sensitive to the acidity of ACV.
• For tough stains or build-up, let apple cider vinegar sit on the surface for a few minutes before wiping it away.
• When purchasing apple cider vinegar for cleaning, look for brands that contain "the mother," a cloudy substance that contains beneficial bacteria and enzymes.

Health Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar

ACV has numerous health benefits, many of which are attributed to its high acetic acid content. Here are a few ways that ACV can benefit your health:

1. Regulates Blood Sugar: ACV has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity and lower blood sugar levels, making it beneficial for people with diabetes or insulin resistance.
2. Boosts Immunity: ACV contains antioxidants that help to boost the immune system and fight off infections.
3. Promotes Weight Loss: Studies have shown that ACV can aid in weight loss by reducing appetite, increasing feelings of fullness, and boosting metabolism.
4. Improves Digestion: ACV contains enzymes and probiotics that aid in digestion and can help to relieve symptoms of indigestion and bloating.
5. Lowers Cholesterol: ACV has been shown to lower cholesterol levels, which can reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke.