Ingredient substitution guide

Best substitutes for balsamic vinegar

Best swap for balsamic vinegar: Pomegranate molasses, use 3/4 as much; thicker, more tart and fruity, thin with a splash of water.

How we checked this: these swaps come from the substitution list Well Stockd uses to match recipes, and their ratios follow ordinary kitchen practice rather than one published chart. For exact amounts on many common swaps, see the NDSU and Colorado State University extension tables listed below. Editorial policy

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What can I use instead of Balsamic Vinegar?

The best swap for Balsamic Vinegar is Pomegranate Molasses, use 3/4 as much; thicker, more tart and fruity, thin with a splash of water. Another option is Red Wine Vinegar plus Honey, 3:1; the standard pantry approximation. The table below also lists Sherry Vinegar, 3 swaps in all.

All 3 swaps for balsamic vinegar, best first.
Swap	Ratio and notes
Pomegranate molasses	use 3/4 as much; thicker, more tart and fruity, thin with a splash of water
Red wine vinegar plus honey	3:1; the standard pantry approximation Diet and health: Not for babies under 12 months: the CDC says honey can cause infant botulism.
Sherry vinegar	1:1 with a pinch of sugar; nutty rather than sweet

Source and limits

These swaps come from the substitution list Well Stockd uses to match recipes to your kitchen, last updated October 24, 2026. We remove swaps known to be unsafe, but not every swap has been tested in a kitchen, and a swap is cooking guidance, not an allergen or nutrition equivalent. Check labels and what the recipe needs before substituting.

The ratios and usage notes follow ordinary kitchen practice rather than a single published chart. These two university extension tables list exact amounts for many common swaps:

Browse every ingredient and read how these swaps are sourced.