China is known for four famous vinegars: Zhenjiang “Black Vinegar”, Shanxi Aged Vinegar, Sichuan Baoning Vinegar, and Fujian Yongchun Monascus (Red) Vinegar. Only two, Zhenjiang and Baoning, are available outside China.
Distinctive qualities of Chinese vinegars
Supreme Vinegar, of Pennsylvania, has an extensive write-up of the history and manufacturing methods for Chinese vinegars. Chinese vinegars are centuries old. For example, Sichuan Baoning vinegar was developed in 1618. Unlike wine-base vinegars, Chinese vinegars use cereal grains as their primary ingredients. While Zhenjiang is made from rice, with wheat, barley, and pea, wheat is the primary grain in Baoning. The unique flavor of Baoning comes from the dozens of herbs used in its manufacture. These herbs have health properties, according to traditional Chinese medicine.
The ancient city of Langzhong, in northern Sichuan province, is the home of Baoning vinegar. There is a museum there, dedicated to the history of Baoning vinegar. The tourism site, China Highlights, has this to say about Baoning vinegar:
The Baoning vinegar is brewed from rice, maize, high-quality spring and more than 70 elements of Chinese traditional medicine. Having Baoning vinegar can kill the bacteria in humans’ bodies, protect people from catching a cold, whet the appetite, invigorate the spleen, clearing away the heart-fire, benefit the lung and reduce blood pressure.
https://www.chinahighlights.com/chongqing/attraction/langzhong-ancient-town.htm
Cooking with Baoning Vinegar
My Chinese Home Kitchen emphasizes recipes found on the typical Chinese family table. Our recipes that use vinegar can be made with white vinegar. While ordinary white vinegar is very affordable, and readily available, for authentic flavor, especially with Sichuan dishes, use Baoning vinegar instead.
I use Baoning in many of our recipes. The flavor difference is noticeable in dishes like Kung Pao Chicken, Hot and Sour Shredded Potatoes, and Jing’s Fried Pork Belly with Green Chili.
Purchasing Baoning Vinegar at The Mala Market
The Mala Market is a mother-daughter business based in Tennessee. They are an excellent source for authentic, quality Sichuan and Chinese ingredients and condiments.
Do you enjoy My Chinese Home Kitchen?
We enjoy sharing these authentic home recipes with you. Learn more about My Chinese Home Kitchen at our About page.
Please leave a comment, or SUBSCRIBE to our newsletter.
For more of our original videos, visit My Chinese Home Kitchen on YouTube and Rumble.
