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What is Chinkiang Vinegar?
Chinkiang vinegar is a Chinese black vinegar made by fermenting black sticky rice, which results in its dark color. The vinegar is full of umami, malty and fruity notes, and a slight sweetness.
The dark color of this vinegar starkly contrasts with other traditional Chinese vinegars, such as rice wine or red rice vinegar. Chinkiang vinegar is aged for several months to achieve its deep rich flavor. The longer the vinegar stays in the fermentation process, the more pronounced the flavor. Chinkiang vinegar made in the Zhenjiang region of China often includes barley, peas, and wheat in the fermentation process.
Black vinegar is a staple in many Chinese dishes. It is used to braise proteins, season appetizers, flavor noodles – and as a dipping sauce for dumplings.
How to Use Chinese Black Vinegar
The most popular use for Chinkiang vinegar is as a dipping sauce for dumplings. It adds a rich and tangy flavor which enhances the flavor of the dumpling filling.
But black vinegar is also excellent in marinades – as its acidic qualities break down fatty meats. It is also great as a seasoning, dressing on noodles, vinaigrette, or glaze.
Cooking With Chinkiang Vinegar
Chinkiang vinegar is a very versatile ingredient to keep in your kitchen pantry. While it tastes great on its own, it elevates the flavors of other ingredients it is combined with. The acidic qualities make it great for braised meats and fish, while its tangy profile makes it tasty as a dipping sauce. Here are a few recipes that highlight how I like to use chinkiang vinegar.
Where to Buy
Chinkiang vinegar is available in most Asian supermarkets near the other types of vinegar. Look for bottles that have yellow labels and say Chinkiang Vinegar or Zhenjiang Vinegar as these will represent true Chinese black vinegar.
If you are having trouble tracking it down in person, you can always purchase chinkiang vinegar on Amazon.
Storage
Storing Chinkiang vinegar isn’t all that different from storing traditional white vinegar. Keep it in a cool, dry place. Do your best to avoid direct sunlight or heat, as these will cause the vinegar to spoil prematurely. If you store it properly, it should last for several months.
Substitutes For Chinkiang Vinegar
Here are a couple rough and ready alternatives to Chinese black vinegar.
- Balsamic Vinegar is similar in both looks and color. But, since it’s made from grapes, balsamic has a much sweeter flavor. Not a true match, but it will work in a pinch.
- Rice wine vinegar with a dash of soy sauce.
- Malt Vinegar with a touch of sugar.
Frequently Asked Questions
This black vinegar hails from the Zhenjiang region in China. It is one of the main types of Chinese vinegar.
Yes! Chinkiang vinegar is the same as Chinese black vinegar.
Just store it in a cool, dry place. That’s enough to keep it nice and fresh. There is no need to keep Chinkiang vinegar in the fridge.
