CHILE VINEGAR
About 3 cups
To our minds, this vinegar’s level of heat after 5 days is perfect for sprinkling over Southern-Style Greens. On the other hand, your taste (and tolerance) may vary. For spicier results, add more chiles than we specify—or steep them for longer. Adding garlic to the mixture makes for an excellent condiment as well: Use the quantities listed in Garlic Vinegar. Simply heat the vinegar and pour over the garlic as directed, then let the mixture cool before adding the chiles.
Have ready one of the following:
- 1 ounce dried chiles, stemmed and seeded (toasted, if desired)
- 3 to 4 habaneros, or 5 to 6 serrano or Thai chiles, stemmed and seeded, if desired
Add to a sterilized 1-quart canning jar along with:
- 3 cups cider or white wine vinegar
Close the jar and let the mixture infuse. Shake the jar and taste each day to check the strength and flavor; allow about 3 days and up to 1 week—or more, if you desire a spicier vinegar. Strain and store as directed for Shallot-Herb Vinegar.