Willy’s organic, live Apple Cider Vinegar is a kitchen essential. Pressed, fermented and bottled on our Herefordshire farm, its bright acidity and rounded apple notes lift everyday cooking from dressings and marinades to baking and shrubs. Here are ten smart ways to use it - plus practical tips for best results.

1) Marinades and Tenderising

ACV’s acidity helps break down proteins and carries flavour deep into meat.


Tips: Marinate chicken, pork or beef 1–4 hours (overnight for tougher cuts). Try ACV + soy sauce + garlic + honey + herbs.

2) Salad Dressings and Vinaigrettes

A classic 3:1 oil-to-vinegar ratio delivers a balanced tang.


Tips: Whisk ACV with extra virgin olive oil, Dijon, honey, salt and pepper. Add herbs like basil or thyme.

3) Quick Pickles

Cucumbers, carrots, radishes and onions love a speedy pickle.


Tips: Basic brine = ACV + water + sugar + salt. Add dill, mustard seed, garlic or chilli flakes.

4) Deglazing for Sauces

Lift the caramelised fond after searing to build instant depth.


Tips: Splash in ACV, scrape with a wooden spoon, then add stock and a knob of butter.

5) Baking and Breads

ACV reacts with bicarbonate of soda for a lighter crumb.


Tips: A teaspoon in pancake, scone or cupcake batters boosts rise and adds gentle tang.

6) Balancing Soups, Stews and Curries

A dash at the end brightens and cuts richness.


Tips: Add to lentil soup or beef stew a little at a time — taste and adjust.

7) Ferments and Culturing

Use ACV to steer flavour in krauts and quick vegetable ferments.


Tips: For sauerkraut, combine with cabbage, salt and spices; keep everything clean and follow safe fermenting practices.

8) Infused Vinegars and Kitchen Cocktails

Create custom finishes and mixers.


Tips: Steep ACV with rosemary, garlic or chilli. Use in mocktails and cocktails or drizzle over roasted veg.

9) Curing Fish and Seafood

Bright, fresh flavours without heat.


Tips: Marinate thin slices of salmon or mackerel with ACV, citrus, onion and herbs. Keep fish very fresh and chilled.

10) Shrubs and Beverage Boosts

ACV brings backbone to drinks - alcoholic or alcohol-free.


Tips: Make a berry shrub (fruit + sugar + ACV), then top with soda. Add a splash of ACV to iced tea or lemonade.

Extra Chef Tips

  • Storage: Keep ACV in a cool, dark place. Shake gently — the live Mother may settle.
  • Pairings: Apples, ginger, cinnamon, mustard, dill, thyme, citrus and honey all shine with ACV.
  • Safety: Always dilute for drinking, and rinse the mouth with water afterwards if sipping regularly.