1. Salad Dressings:
Mix a small amount of rice vinegar with other ingredients like olive oil, sesame oil, soy sauce, honey, or maple syrup to create a tangy and flavourful dressing.
It can be used to pickle cucumbers, making them a crunchy and refreshing addition to salads.
2. Marinades:
Add rice vinegar to marinades for meat, poultry, or tofu to tenderize and add flavour.
Combine it with other ingredients like soy sauce, ginger, and garlic for a delicious marinade.
3. Sauces:
Use rice vinegar as a base for sweet and sour sauces, stir-fry sauces, or dipping sauces.
It can be mixed with other ingredients like soy sauce, sugar, cornstarch, and ginger to create a versatile sauce for various dishes.
4. Cooking:
You can add a small amount of rice vinegar to stir-fries, noodles, or vegetables to enhance their flavour and prevent sticking.
It can also be used in rice cooking to give it a slightly tangy flavour and prevent stickiness.
5. Other Uses:
Some sweetened or flavoured varieties of Chinese rice vinegar can be used to make a summer drink by mixing it with water, sugar, and a splash of soda water.
It can also be used to make pickles.
Key Considerations:
Mild Acidity:
Chinese white rice vinegar is less acidic than other vinegars like distilled white vinegar or wine vinegar, making it a good choice for those who prefer a milder taste.
Versatility:
It can be used in a wide variety of dishes, from salads and marinades to sauces and stir-fries.
Balance:
It can help balance the flavours of salty, sweet, and savoury dishes, adding a subtle tanginess.