Nasturtium Bud and Dill Infused Vinegar Recipe

Introduction

In the realm of culinary innovations and homemade condiments, few creations evoke the freshness and vibrant flavors of infused vinegars quite like the Nasturtium Bud and Dill Vinegar. This artisanal infusion not only elevates the simplest salads but also acts as a versatile marinade and finishing touch that transforms ordinary dishes into extraordinary culinary experiences. As shared by the esteemed “The Rodale Food Center,” this recipe emphasizes the natural goodness of edible flowers and herbs, harnessing their aromatic qualities through a simple yet meticulous process of infusion. Crafted with attention to both flavor and presentation, this vinegar is an aromatic marvel that encapsulates the essence of summer’s bounty, making it a perfect addition to your kitchen arsenal or a charming handmade gift for loved ones. At Love With Recipes, we prioritize recipes that combine simplicity with sophistication, ensuring that every home cook can indulge in creating something truly special from scratch.

Time

• Preparation Time: 5 minutes
• Cooking Time: 2 minutes
• Infusion Time: Approximately 3 weeks (21 days)
• Total Time: About 3 weeks and 7 minutes

While the active kitchen time is minimal, the magic of this recipe lies in the patience required for the infusion process. The three-week resting period allows the flavors of nasturtium buds and dill to meld perfectly into the vinegar, resulting in a complex, nuanced profile that can’t be hurried. During this period, the vinegar develops a rich aroma and depth, making the wait worthwhile for an exceptional homemade condiment.

Needed Equipment

• Stainless steel or enamel saucepan – for heating the vinegar
• Large glass jar or ceramic crock – for infusing the herbs and flowers
• Fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth – to strain out solids after infusion
• Clean, dry jars with tight-fitting lids – for storing the finished vinegar
• Funnels (optional but recommended) – for transferring vinegar into storage jars without spills
• Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredient measurement
• Kitchen scissors or herb shears – for trimming dill sprigs
• Labels and marker – for dating and identification of the stored vinegar
• Stove or heat source – to bring the vinegar to a boil
• Cooking spoon or ladle – for handling hot liquids safely
• Cooling rack or trivet – to place jars after bottling

Tags

Herbal Infused Vinegar, Edible Flowers, Summer Flavors, Homemade Condiments, Gift Ideas, Natural Preserves, Culinary Herbs, DIY Kitchen, Artisanal Vinegar, Kitchen Essentials

Serving Size

The recipe yields approximately 1 quart (4 cups) of infused vinegar, which can be used over several months when stored properly. Each serving size is considered to be about 1 tablespoon (15 ml), making it suitable for salads, marinades, and dressings. This amount provides enough flavor for multiple meals or as a thoughtful gift.

Difficulty Level

Intermediate. While the process is straightforward, it requires attention to detail, especially during the infusion period. Ensuring cleanliness and proper sealing are essential to prevent spoilage. Some experience with preserving or infusing oils and vinegars is helpful but not mandatory.

Allergen Information

This recipe contains no common allergens; however, individuals allergic to plants in the Brassicaceae family or edible flowers should exercise caution. Always verify that nasturtium and dill are safe for personal consumption, especially if foraged from non-commercial sources.

Dietary Preference

Vegan, Vegetarian, Gluten-Free, Paleo, Whole30 (if using compliant vinegar, check for additives)

Course

Condiment, Sauce, Preserves, Garnish

Cuisine

Global, with a focus on herbaceous and floral flavors typical of European and North American culinary traditions.

Ingredients

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Vinegar

Begin by pouring the white vinegar into a stainless steel or enamel saucepan. Place the saucepan on the stove and turn on medium-high heat. Bring the vinegar to a rolling boil, which typically takes about 1-2 minutes. This boiling step serves multiple purposes: it sterilizes the vinegar, infuses it with the herbal and floral aromas, and initiates the extraction process. Be cautious when handling boiling liquids to avoid burns or spills. Use a sturdy spoon or ladle to stir gently if necessary, ensuring even heating.

Step 2: Gather and Prepare Herbs and Flowers

While the vinegar is heating, prepare your herbs. Using clean kitchen scissors or herb shears, trim the dill sprigs to manageable length—about 2-3 inches—to facilitate placement and infusion. Rinse the nasturtium buds carefully under cool, running water to remove dirt, insects, or debris. Pat them dry gently with a clean towel or paper towels. The freshness and quality of these ingredients are paramount; vibrant, healthy buds and herbs will produce the most flavorful infusion.

Step 3: Assemble the Infusion Container

Choose a large glass jar or ceramic crock with a lid that seals tightly. Clean the container thoroughly with hot water and soap, then rinse and dry completely. Place the prepared nasturtium buds and dill sprigs inside the jar. For aesthetic appeal, you might arrange the herbs in a way that showcases their beauty through the glass. Adding other herbs like thyme or tarragon can create a layered flavor profile, but keep the quantity balanced to maintain harmony.

Step 4: Pour Hot Vinegar Over Herbs

Once the vinegar has reached a rolling boil, carefully pour it over the herbs in the jar. Fill the jar until the herbs are fully submerged, leaving about half an inch of headspace to allow for expansion and to prevent spillage during storage. Use a funnel if necessary to avoid messes. Cover the jar with a lid, ensuring it is airtight. The heat from the vinegar will help to extract essential oils and flavors from the nasturtium buds and dill, infusing the vinegar with their vibrant aromas and subtle tastes.

Step 5: Infusion Period

Store the sealed jar in a cool, dark place such as a pantry or cellar. Allow the mixture to steep undisturbed for approximately three weeks (21 days). During this time, the flavors will develop and intensify as the herbs release their oils into the vinegar. To ensure even infusion, gently invert or shake the jar once every few days, but do so carefully to avoid spillage. Patience is essential here; the longer the infusion, the more complex and nuanced the flavor profile will become.

Step 6: Reheat and Enhance the Infusion

After the steeping period, remove the jar from storage. Pour the infused vinegar back into a saucepan and bring it to a boil again. This second boiling step serves to sterilize the liquid, eradicate any potential microbial activity, and amalgamate the flavors further. Boil for about 1-2 minutes, then remove from heat. This step ensures the vinegar is safe for long-term storage and enhances the depth of flavor.

Step 7: Strain and Bottle

Allow the hot infused vinegar to cool slightly, but do not wait too long as it can create a vacuum effect that makes pouring difficult. Place a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth over a clean bowl or another jar. Carefully pour the hot vinegar through the strainer, catching all the solid bits of herbs and flowers. This process yields a smooth, clear, and intensely flavored vinegar. Using a funnel, transfer the strained vinegar into sterilized glass jars or bottles. Seal tightly with lids, and label with the date. Store in a cool, dark place to maintain freshness.

Preparation Tips

• Choice of Vinegar: Opt for high-quality, unfiltered, or organic white vinegar for the best flavor. Avoid vinegars with additives or artificial preservatives, which can interfere with the infusion process.
• Herb Quality: Use fresh, organic nasturtium buds and dill for vivid flavor and aroma. Foraged or homegrown herbs tend to be more aromatic and vibrant than store-bought varieties.
• Infusion Duration: While three weeks is standard, you can extend or shorten the infusion time based on taste preferences. Longer infusions deepen the flavor, but over-infusing may lead to overly bitter notes.
• Sterilization: Proper sterilization of jars and utensils is crucial to prevent spoilage and ensure a long shelf life. Boil glass jars and lids in water for 10 minutes before use.
• Flavor Variations: Experiment with adding other edible flowers like calendula or violets, or herbs such as tarragon or basil, to customize the flavor profile according to your preferences.

Nutritional Information

This vinegar is virtually calorie-free and contains no fats or proteins, making it an ideal zero-calorie flavor enhancer. Its sodium content is minimal, but always check your vinegar for added salts if you’re monitoring sodium intake.

Tips and Tricks

• Use the freshest ingredients possible. Fresh herbs and edible flowers provide the most vibrant flavors and aromas.
• Label your jars clearly. Include the date of infusion to keep track of flavor development and shelf life.
• Store in a dark, cool place. Light and heat can degrade the quality of infused vinegars over time.
• Double strain for clarity. Use a fine mesh or cheesecloth multiple times if necessary to ensure a crystal-clear product.
• Adjust the intensity. For a stronger flavor, extend the infusion period or increase the amount of herbs in the jar.
• Use sterile techniques. Proper sterilization prevents spoilage and extends shelf life significantly.

Add-ons

• Adding garlic cloves during infusion for a garlic-infused vinegar.
• Incorporating slices of citrus peel (lemon, lime, or orange) for a citrus twist.
• Infusing with peppercorns or chili flakes for a spicy kick.
• Mixing in other edible flowers or herbs for unique flavor combinations.

Side Dishes

• Salad dressings: Use as a base for vinaigrettes, combined with olive oil, mustard, and honey.
• Marinades: Perfect for marinating chicken, fish, or tofu, imparting a subtle floral and herbal aroma.
• Pickles and preserves: Enhance the flavor of homemade pickled vegetables or fruit preserves.
• Finishing touches: Drizzle over grilled vegetables or roasted potatoes for an elegant flavor boost.

Improvements

• Use different varieties of edible flowers like calendula, pansies, or violets for diverse color and flavor profiles.
• Experiment with different vinegars, such as apple cider or balsamic, for varied acidity and sweetness levels.
• Add a touch of honey or sugar during infusion to create a subtly sweet vinegar.
• Introduce spices like cinnamon sticks or star anise for warm, aromatic infusions.

Save and Store

Once strained and bottled, store the vinegar in a cool, dark, and dry place. Properly sealed, it can last for up to a year without losing flavor. Always label your jars with the infusion date to monitor freshness. Use sterilized bottles or jars specifically designed for liquids, and avoid storing near heat sources or in direct sunlight, which can degrade the quality over time.

FAQ

Can I reuse the herbs and flowers after infusion?

It’s best to discard the used herbs and flowers after the infusion period since most of their flavor has been extracted. However, some people do compost them or use them for other culinary or decorative purposes.

How long does homemade infused vinegar last?

When stored properly in sterilized jars in a cool, dark place, the vinegar can last up to a year or more. Always check for signs of spoilage such as mold, off smells, or cloudiness before use.

Can I infuse other types of vinegar?

Absolutely! While white vinegar is most common for its neutral flavor, you can experiment with apple cider, red wine, or balsamic vinegar to create different flavor profiles.

Is it safe to consume homemade infused vinegar?

Yes, provided proper sterilization and storage techniques are followed. The boiling process and airtight sealing minimize risks of bacterial growth. If you notice any signs of spoilage, discard the vinegar immediately.

Conclusion

Crafting your own Nasturtium Bud and Dill Vinegar is a delightful way to harness the fleeting beauty of summer herbs and edible flowers. This infusion not only elevates your culinary creations but also offers a personal touch to your kitchen that can be appreciated by family and friends alike. The process is as rewarding as the product itself—combining the freshness of garden herbs with the artistry of preservation. With patience and care, you’ll produce a versatile, flavorful vinegar that adds a sophisticated note to countless dishes. Remember to always prioritize cleanliness and quality ingredients, and don’t hesitate to experiment with new herbs, spices, and vinegars to personalize your infusions. The recipe, shared by Love With Recipes, exemplifies how simple ingredients can be transformed into gourmet delights, enriching your culinary repertoire with little effort but immense flavor.

References

• Rodale’s Organic Kitchen: Edible Flowers and Herb Infusions
• Food & Nutrition Research: Herbal Vinegar for Culinary Use