Rice Vinegar Substitutes – 5 Best Mild Alternatives
The best substitute for rice vinegar is Apple Cider Vinegar (diluted) at a 1 tbsp rice vinegar = 1/2 tbsp apple cider vinegar + 1/2 tbsp water + pinch of sugar ratio. It works best for stir-fries, dipping sauces, slaws. There are 4 other alternatives below, each with exact ratios and usage notes.
Best Substitute
Apple Cider Vinegar (diluted)
1 tbsp rice vinegar = 1/2 tbsp apple cider vinegar + 1/2 tbsp water + pinch of sugar
Dilute and sweeten to approximate rice vinegar's gentle flavor. Works well in most Asian-inspired recipes.
What are the other substitutes for rice vinegar?
White Wine Vinegar (diluted)
1 tbsp rice vinegar = 1/2 tbsp white wine vinegar + 1/2 tbsp water + 1/4 tsp sugar
White wine vinegar is sharper than rice vinegar, so dilute and sweeten. Good for dressings and marinades.
Champagne Vinegar
1 tbsp rice vinegar = 1 tbsp champagne vinegar
Closest in mildness and delicacy. A premium option that works beautifully as a 1:1 swap.
Lemon Juice
1 tbsp rice vinegar = 1 tbsp lemon juice + 1/4 tsp sugar
Provides acidity with a citrus twist. Add a touch of sugar to replicate the gentle sweetness of rice vinegar.
Seasoned Rice Vinegar
1 tbsp rice vinegar = 1 tbsp seasoned rice vinegar (reduce salt and sugar in recipe)
Seasoned rice vinegar already contains salt and sugar. Reduce or omit added salt and sugar in your recipe to compensate.
What should you know before substituting rice vinegar?
Rice vinegar is the mildest common vinegar. When substituting with stronger vinegars, always dilute with water and add a pinch of sugar. For sushi rice specifically, no substitute perfectly replaces seasoned rice vinegar.
How do you substitute rice vinegar in a recipe?
A mild, slightly sweet vinegar made from fermented rice, essential in Asian cooking for sushi rice, dressings, and dipping sauces.
The best substitute for rice vinegar depends on what role it plays in your recipe. Our top recommendation is Apple Cider Vinegar (diluted) (1 tbsp rice vinegar = 1/2 tbsp apple cider vinegar + 1/2 tbsp water + pinch of sugar), which works well for stir-fries, dipping sauces, slaws.
If you need a different option, White Wine Vinegar (diluted) (1 tbsp rice vinegar = 1/2 tbsp white wine vinegar + 1/2 tbsp water + 1/4 tsp sugar) is another reliable choice. White wine vinegar is sharper than rice vinegar, so dilute and sweeten. Good for dressings and marinades.
When substituting rice vinegar, consider the flavor profile, texture, and cooking method of your recipe. For vegan alternatives, look for the options marked with the vegan badge above.
Substitution ratios verified against USDA FoodData Central and FoodSafety.gov. See our testing methodology for details.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I use instead of rice vinegar for sushi rice?
Champagne vinegar is the closest 1:1 substitute. Alternatively, mix 1/2 tbsp apple cider vinegar with 1/2 tbsp water and a pinch of sugar per tablespoon needed.
Is rice vinegar the same as rice wine vinegar?
Yes, rice vinegar and rice wine vinegar are the same product. However, rice wine (like mirin or sake) is different-it's an alcoholic beverage, not a vinegar.
Can I use regular white vinegar instead of rice vinegar?
White vinegar is much harsher. If you must use it, dilute 1/2 tbsp with 1/2 tbsp water and add 1/4 tsp sugar per tablespoon of rice vinegar needed.