How to Make Herbal Vinegars and Oxymels: A Step-by-Step Guide

Have you ever wanted to add a burst of flavor to your dishes while boosting your wellness routine? Herbal vinegars and their lesser-known cousins, oxymels, are the answer! These vibrant infusions aren’t just delicious additions to salad dressings and marinades, they’re also a traditional way to enjoy the powerful benefits of herbs. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just starting your culinary journey, this guide will walk you through the simple steps of crafting your own herbal vinegars and oxymels at home.

What are Herbal Vinegars and Oxymels?

Herbal vinegars are exactly what they sound like: vinegars, typically apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar, infused with herbs, spices, or fruits. This process extracts the flavors and beneficial compounds, creating a versatile ingredient for both cooking and health.

Oxymels take it a step further. The word “oxymel” comes from the Greek words for “vinegar” and “honey.” These preparations combine the power of herbs with the sweetness of honey and the tang of vinegar for a truly balanced flavor profile.

Why You Should Try Making Your Own

1. Flavor Exploration: The possibilities are endless! Experiment with different herb and vinegar combinations to create unique flavors that match your palate.

2. Health Benefits: Many herbs possess medicinal properties. Infusing them in vinegar or honey helps extract these beneficial compounds, offering a delicious way to support your well-being.

3. Cost-Effective: Store-bought herbal vinegars and oxymels can be expensive. Making your own allows you to control the ingredients and save money in the long run.

4. Mindful Cooking: Crafting your own infusions brings a touch of mindfulness to your kitchen. It’s a rewarding process that connects you with the ingredients and their natural goodness.

Homemade herbal vinegars and oxymels in glass bottles.

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Choosing Your Ingredients

Vinegars

• Apple Cider Vinegar: Known for its health benefits and slightly sweet, tangy flavor. Choose raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar for the most nutrients.

• White Wine Vinegar: Milder than apple cider vinegar with a delicate, slightly fruity taste.

• Rice Vinegar: A light and slightly sweet vinegar, excellent for Asian-inspired infusions.

Herbs

The herb world is your oyster! Some popular choices include:

• Culinary Herbs: Basil, rosemary, thyme, oregano, sage, tarragon, dill, mint
• Medicinal Herbs: Calendula, chamomile, dandelion, echinacea, elderflower, lemon balm, nettle

Additional Flavorings

Get creative! Consider adding:

• Spices: Black peppercorns, pink peppercorns, chili flakes, star anise, cinnamon sticks
• Fruits: Berries, citrus peels, stone fruits
• Other: Garlic, ginger

How to Make Herbal Vinegar

You Will Need:

• Clean glass jars with lids
• Raw apple cider vinegar or another vinegar of your choice
• Fresh or dried herbs
• Optional: Cheesecloth, funnel

Instructions:

1. Prepare Your Ingredients: Wash and thoroughly dry your herbs. Chop larger herbs to increase surface area for better flavor extraction.

2. Fill the Jar: Place your herbs in a clean glass jar, filling it about halfway.

3. Add Vinegar: Pour your chosen vinegar over the herbs, ensuring they are completely submerged. Leave about an inch of headspace at the top.

4. Infuse: Seal the jar tightly and store in a cool, dark place for 2-4 weeks, shaking occasionally. Taste-test after 2 weeks and continue infusing until you reach your desired strength.

5. Strain and Store: Once infused, strain the vinegar through a cheesecloth-lined funnel into a clean jar or bottle. Store in a cool, dark place for up to 6 months.

How to Make an Oxymel

You Will Need:

• All the ingredients for herbal vinegar
• Raw honey

Instructions:

1. Prepare Herbs: Follow step 1 from the herbal vinegar instructions.

2. Combine Honey and Vinegar: In a small saucepan, gently warm equal parts honey and vinegar over low heat, stirring until the honey dissolves. Do not boil.

3. Pour Over Herbs: Pour the warm honey-vinegar mixture over the herbs in the jar.

4. Infuse: Seal the jar tightly and store in a cool, dark place for 4-6 weeks, shaking occasionally.

5. Strain and Store: Strain the oxymel through a cheesecloth-lined funnel into a clean jar. Store in a cool, dark place for up to 6 months.

Tips for Success

• Start with High-Quality Ingredients: Use organic ingredients whenever possible for the best flavor and health benefits.

• Experiment with Ratios: There’s no strict rule when it comes to herb-to-vinegar ratios. Start with a 1:4 ratio (herb to vinegar) and adjust to your preference.

• Label and Date: Always label your creations with the ingredients and infusion date for easy identification.

• Be Creative and Have Fun: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavor combinations!

Ways to Use Herbal Vinegars and Oxymels:

• Salad Dressings: Whisk together with olive oil, Dijon mustard, and your favorite herbs.

• Marinades: Tenderize and add flavor to meat, poultry, tofu, or vegetables.

• Flavor Booster: Add a splash to soups, stews, sauces, or even cocktails.

• Wellness Tonic: Dilute a tablespoon in water and consume daily for a health boost.

Conclusion:

Crafting your own herbal vinegars and oxymels is a rewarding experience that brings together flavor, wellness, and creativity. With a few simple ingredients and a bit of patience, you can unlock a world of taste sensations while incorporating the power of herbs into your daily routine. So, gather your favorite herbs and get infusing! You’ll be amazed by the delicious possibilities that await.

What are your favorite herb and vinegar combinations? Share your creations and experiences in the comments below!