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Best Substitutes for Balsamic Vinegar

Rich, dark, sweet-and-sour Italian vinegar aged in wooden barrels.

5 substitute options 🌱 Vegan options🌾 GF options

Substitutes by Use Case

general

Red wine vinegar + honey🌾 GFBest for: Dressings, marinades, glazes

⚖️1 tbsp red wine vinegar + 1 tsp honey = 1 tbsp balsamic

Mimics the sweet-sour balance well. Best quick substitute for dressings.

Red wine vinegar + sugar🌱 Vegan🌾 GFBest for: Dressings, reductions

⚖️1 tbsp red wine vinegar + 1 tsp brown sugar

Vegan version of the above. Same principle. Good for dressings.

Apple cider vinegar + maple syrup🌱 Vegan🌾 GFBest for: Salad dressings, glazes

⚖️1 tbsp ACV + 1 tsp maple syrup

Fruity and tangy. Works in dressings and glazes.

Worcestershire sauceBest for: Marinades, meat dishes

⚖️1:1

Complex, savory umami. Works in marinades and sauces. Not vegan.

Grape juice concentrate + vinegar🌱 Vegan🌾 GFBest for: Reductions, glazes

⚖️2 tbsp grape juice + 1 tsp red wine vinegar

Closest flavor match. Rich grape notes with acidity.

💡 Expert Tips

✓For a reduction/glaze, simmer the substitute longer to caramelize and thicken
✓A balsamic glaze cannot be replicated quickly — combine any dark vinegar with sweetener and reduce
✓Apple cider vinegar is too light in flavor for a drizzle but works fine mixed into dressings

❌ Do NOT Use

✗White wine vinegar (completely different flavor profile)
✗Lemon juice (too sharp, no sweetness)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best substitute for balsamic vinegar?

Red wine vinegar + honey — use 1 tbsp red wine vinegar + 1 tsp honey = 1 tbsp balsamic. Mimics the sweet-sour balance well. Best quick substitute for dressings.