What is the difference between vinegar and distilled vinegar?

Vinegar and distilled vinegar are both acidic liquids made from the fermentation of ethanol by acetic acid bacteria. However, there are some key differences between the two.

Vinegar is a general term used to refer to any acidic liquid made from the fermentation of ethanol. This can include vinegar made from wine, cider, beer, or other alcoholic beverages. Vinegar can also be made from non-alcoholic sources, such as fruit juice or molasses.

Distilled vinegar is a specific type of vinegar that has been distilled to remove impurities. This process results in a purer vinegar with a more consistent flavor and acidity. Distilled vinegar is typically made from grain alcohol or synthetic acetic acid.

The main difference between vinegar and distilled vinegar is the level of impurities. Distilled vinegar is purer and has a more consistent flavor and acidity. However, distilled vinegar can also be more expensive than regular vinegar.

Vinegar and distilled vinegar can both be used in cooking, baking, and cleaning. However, distilled vinegar is sometimes preferred for uses where a pure, consistent flavor is desired, such as in salad dressings or marinades. Regular vinegar can be used for most other purposes, such as cleaning or adding acidity to recipes.

Here is a table summarizing the key differences between vinegar and distilled vinegar:

| Feature | Vinegar | Distilled Vinegar |

|---|---|---|

| Definition | Any acidic liquid made from the fermentation of ethanol | A specific type of vinegar that has been distilled to remove impurities |

| Source | Wine, cider, beer, other alcoholic beverages, or non-alcoholic sources | Grain alcohol or synthetic acetic acid |

| Purity | Can contain impurities | Pure and free of impurities |

| Flavor and acidity | Can vary depending on the source | Consistent flavor and acidity |

| Cost | Less expensive | More expensive |

| Uses | Cooking, baking, cleaning | Cooking, baking, cleaning (sometimes preferred for uses where a pure, consistent flavor is desired) |