Uses of Blackberry Vinegar

Blackberries are a natural fruit that are packed with the antioxidant vitamins A and C. They also contain phenolic acids, antioxidant compounds that are believed to stave off carcinogens. Blackberries can be used to flavour vinegar because they are both tart and sweet at the same time. Old-time remedies claim that blackberry vinegar is useful in curing coughs, colds and sore throats. Blackberry vinegar can also be used in recipes to create tasty dishes.

Grandmothers seem to have home remedies for every ailment. Blackberry vinegar is commonly used as a home remedy to treat coughs, colds and sore throats. Make this remedy ahead of time and keep on hand when a cure is needed. Place 1 pint of fresh, clean blackberries in a jar with 1 pint of white vinegar and allow to soak for one week. Using cheesecloth or a fine strainer, strain the berries into a saucepan. Add 0.454kg. of honey and 1/2 cup sugar. Bring to a boil and stir just until the sugar and honey have dissolved. Allow mixture to cool, then store in a bottle with a tight cork. Store in the refrigerator or cool place. When a cough, cold or sore throat arises, mix a tablespoon of the mixture with 1 cup of hot water and drink.

Many cooks know the secret of using the last bit of fruit jam in a jar to create a delicious dressing. You simply add some vinegar and oil to the jar, shake well and then serve with a salad. Blackberry vinegar is just as useful and delicious for salads. In a medium mixing bowl, add 1 cup blackberry vinegar and 1/3 cup olive oil. You can add some blackberry jam to increase the blackberry flavour or add your favourite seasoning to taste. Whisk until thoroughly combined and then serve with your favourite salad. This dressing is especially tasty in salads with white meats like chicken or turkey. Blue cheese and feta cheese provide an interesting contrast to the tangy, sweet flavour of this blackberry vinegar dressing.

Blackberry vinegar can be used a marinade for your favourite meat, but it works especially well with white meats like chicken, turkey and pork. Pour some blackberry vinegar in a bowl with the meat, add other spices to suit your preference, then cover with cling film and store in the refrigerator. The meat will absorb the flavour as it sits in the vinegar, so marinate it longer for a more intense blackberry vinegar flavour. Vegetarians might try marinating portabello mushroom caps in place of meat. If you're going to be grilling, try mixing some blackberry vinegar with honey and brushing it over your meat as it cooks. This also makes a great glaze to serve alongside freshly prepared meat dishes.