Skip to main content

Garlic-Chilli Vinegar

Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 28 Jan 2026

Meets Patient’s editorial guidelines

This vibrant garlic-chilli vinegar is a versatile vegan condiment that adds an instant brightness to your cooking. By infusing distilled white vinegar with fresh Thai chillies, sliced ginger and garlic, you create a punchy, aromatic dressing that balances heat with a subtle tang. It is an essential store-cupboard staple for anyone who enjoys bold, East Asian-inspired flavours or those looking to lift a simple midweek meal with minimal effort.

Keep a jar of this infused vinegar in the fridge to drizzle over stir-fried greens, noodle bowls or even crispy fried eggs. The aromatics mellow and sweeten as they sit in the brine, providing a delicious savoury crunch alongside the liquid. This is a quick, healthy way to add depth to your favourite dishes and can be prepared well in advance.

In this article:

Video picks

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Garlic-Chilli Vinegar

  • 7 red or green Thai chillies

  • 8 garlic cloves, thinly sliced

  • 1 (1 1/2") piece ginger, peeled, thinly sliced

  • 475ml distilled white vinegar

  • 1 tablespoon sugar

  • 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt

  • A heatproof 1-qt. jar

How to make Garlic-Chilli Vinegar

Back to contents

Place chillies, garlic, and ginger in a jar. Bring vinegar, sugar, and salt to a boil in a medium saucepan, stirring to dissolve sugar and salt. Pour hot brine into jar; let cool 30 minutes. Cover and chill at least 4 hours before using.

Garlic-chilli vinegar can be made 4 weeks ahead. Keep chilled.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 28 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
flu eligibility checker

Ask, share, connect.

Browse discussions, ask questions, and share experiences across hundreds of health topics.

symptom checker

Feeling unwell?

Assess your symptoms online for free

Sign up to the Patient newsletter

Your weekly dose of clear, trustworthy health advice - written to help you feel informed, confident and in control.

Please enter a valid email address

By subscribing you accept our Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe at any time. We never sell your data.