Vinegar with tarragon and tarragon in vinegar

Tarragon Vinegar and Tarragon in Vinegar: A Classic and Flavorful Recipe to Enrich Your Dishes

Tarragon vinegar and tarragon in vinegar are two delicious products that can transform a simple salad or marinade into an unforgettable culinary experience. These preparations are not only easy to make but also add a touch of elegance and sophistication to your kitchen. Additionally, tarragon is an aromatic herb with a rich history, used since ancient times for its aromatic and medicinal properties. Let's explore together how you can prepare these delights at home, step by step!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Resting time: 2 weeks
Servings: 500 ml of tarragon vinegar and one jar of tarragon in vinegar

Ingredients:
- 500 ml of 9-degree white vinegar
- 3 bunches of fresh tarragon

Step 1: Preparing the Tarragon
The first step in this recipe is to take care of the tarragon. Make sure to choose fresh tarragon with green, tender leaves. Wash the tarragon well under cold running water to remove any impurities. After washing, gently shake it to remove excess water. Then, detach the leaves from the stems, being careful to keep them intact. The thicker stems can be used for extra flavor in the aromatic vinegar.

Step 2: Preparing the Tarragon in Vinegar
Now that you have the tarragon leaves ready, take a clean, sterilized jar. Add the tarragon leaves to the jar, pressing them down gently to compact them. This will help release their intense flavors. Once the jar is full, pour the 9-degree white vinegar over the tarragon, ensuring the leaves are completely covered. Seal the jar tightly and place it in a cool, dark place, like a pantry. Let it infuse for at least two weeks, gently shaking the jar from time to time to help distribute the flavors.

Step 3: Preparing the Tarragon Vinegar
To prepare the tarragon vinegar, use the remaining stems from the tarragon you previously used. Place them in a clean vinegar bottle, adding a few tarragon leaves to enhance the flavor. Fill the bottle with 9-degree white vinegar and seal it tightly. Let the vinegar sit in the same pantry for at least two weeks, gently shaking it every few days.

Practical Tips:
1. Choosing the Vinegar: 9-degree white vinegar is ideal for this recipe due to its neutral taste. You can also experiment with white wine vinegar for a more complex flavor.
2. Fresh vs. Dried Tarragon: Fresh tarragon gives the best results. If fresh tarragon is not available, you can use dried tarragon, but the amount should be reduced as the flavors are more concentrated.
3. Using the Vinegar: Tarragon vinegar is fantastic for salad dressings, marinating meats, or even as an ingredient in sauces. Tarragon in vinegar can be used directly as a seasoning for various dishes, giving them a unique taste.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- How long can tarragon vinegar be stored? Tarragon vinegar keeps well in the pantry for several years due to the acidity of the vinegar.
- Can I use other herbs? Absolutely! The vinegar can be flavored with other herbs like basil, dill, or oregano, depending on your preferences.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits:
Tarragon vinegar and tarragon in vinegar are low in calories, having an almost negligible caloric intake. Tarragon is rich in antioxidants, vitamins C and A, and minerals like calcium and iron. It also has digestive and anti-inflammatory properties, making it an excellent choice to improve not only the taste but also the health of your dishes.

Possible Variations:
1. Tarragon and Garlic Vinegar: Add a few peeled garlic cloves to the jar with tarragon for an even more intense flavor.
2. Tarragon and Chili Vinegar: If you like it spicy, add a dried chili pepper to the vinegar jar for a spicy note.

Serving:
Tarragon vinegar can be used to prepare a simple arugula salad with cherry tomatoes and goat cheese. The aromatic vinegar will complement the taste, providing a remarkable culinary experience. You can also make a cocktail with gin, tonic, and a drop of tarragon vinegar for a refreshing and elegant drink.

Don't be afraid to experiment with various flavor combinations and personalize your recipes. I wish you much success in the kitchen, and don't forget to share your results with your loved ones! Bon appétit!