Sherry vinegar vs. balsamic vinegar.

I try to follow a recipe faithfully, but sometimes a particular ingredient isn't available.
Have you ever substituted sherry vinegar for balsamic vinegar, or vice versa?

[Pete]

I am not usually one to knock substituting one thing for another, but in this instance I would have to say don't do it. These two vinegars are 2 totally different types, though both have a sweetness to them. Go out and buy each of them. They are not expensive (unless you go for the really good balsamic) and will last for a long time in your cupboards.

[mudbug]

According to foodsubs.com (if you're in a pinch)
balsamic vinegar
Substitutes: red wine vinegar + sugar or honey OR sherry vinegar

Your advice sounds good. The only balsamic vinegar I bought was cheap. I plan to buy one for, say, $30 (not $80), and compare the taste with that of sherry vinegar.

Originally posted by Pete:
I am not usually one to knock substituting one thing for another, but in this instance I would have to say don't do it. These two vinegars are 2 totally different types, though both have a sweetness to them. Go out and buy each of them. They are not expensive (unless you go for the really good balsamic) and will last for a long time in your cupboards.

Thank you. I am familiar with thesaurus.com, but take their substitutions with a good pinch of salt. I appreciate your response. :-)

Originally posted by cchiu:
According to foodsubs.com (if you're in a pinch)
balsamic vinegar
Substitutes: red wine vinegar + sugar or honey OR sherry vinegar