Balsamic Vinegar Substitute for Red Wine Vinegar: Exact Ratio
Looking for a red wine vinegar substitute? Balsamic Vinegar works as a direct replacement. Use 1 tbsp red wine vinegar = 1/2 tbsp balsamic vinegar + 1/2 tbsp water in any recipe that calls for red wine vinegar. This swap works best for marinades, glazes, roasted vegetables.
Best Substitute
Balsamic Vinegar
1 tbsp red wine vinegar = 1/2 tbsp balsamic vinegar + 1/2 tbsp water
Sweeter and more intense. Dilute to avoid overpowering. Will darken the dish.
Tips When Replacing Red Wine Vinegar in Recipes
Red wine vinegar gets mellower with age. If substituting with balsamic, use less to avoid excessive sweetness. For cooked dishes, any wine vinegar works; for raw applications like vinaigrettes, sherry vinegar is the best match.
What Is Red Wine Vinegar and Why Substitute It?
A sharp, fruity vinegar made from fermented red wine, commonly used in vinaigrettes, marinades, and Mediterranean dishes.
Balsamic Vinegar is one of 5 alternatives you can use instead of red wine vinegar. For a complete list of red wine vinegar substitutes with ratios and cooking tips, visit the full red wine vinegar substitute page.
What Else Can I Use Instead of Red Wine Vinegar?
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use balsamic vinegar instead of red wine vinegar?
Yes, you can use balsamic vinegar as a substitute for red wine vinegar. Use 1 tbsp red wine vinegar = 1/2 tbsp balsamic vinegar + 1/2 tbsp water. Sweeter and more intense. Dilute to avoid overpowering. Will darken the dish.
How much balsamic vinegar equals red wine vinegar?
Use 1 tbsp red wine vinegar = 1/2 tbsp balsamic vinegar + 1/2 tbsp water to replace red wine vinegar with balsamic vinegar. Works best for marinades, glazes, roasted vegetables.
What is the best substitute for red wine vinegar?
Balsamic Vinegar is a popular substitute for red wine vinegar. Use 1 tbsp red wine vinegar = 1/2 tbsp balsamic vinegar + 1/2 tbsp water for a 1-to-1 replacement. See all 5 alternatives on our red wine vinegar substitute page.
Is balsamic vinegar a vegan substitute for red wine vinegar?
Yes, balsamic vinegar is vegan and works as a plant-based alternative to red wine vinegar. Use 1 tbsp red wine vinegar = 1/2 tbsp balsamic vinegar + 1/2 tbsp water.