A new seaweed vinegar to make seafood, sprouts or gravy shine this Christmas

Orkney Craft Vinegar have released a new product in time for Christmas to add to their already stellar line-up of sustainably produced living vinegars. In collaboration with Mara Seaweed, Orkney Craft Vinegar’s latest offering is a Smoked Dulse Vinegar and is set to be a hit with chefs and home cooks this Christmas.

High-quality vinegar is gaining popularity as an essential ingredient to cook with, adding vital acidity and balance to dishes. Orkney Craft Vinegar are leading the way in the UK with their flavour-driven malt and wine-based vinegars made from scratch, using ingredients only from their surrounding area on the Scottish islands.

Fresh seaweed for the new Smoked Dulse Vinegar is handpicked in season at low tide on the shores of Birsay, Orkney. The nutrient-rich seaweed from crystal clear waters is traditionally fermented into wine, then vinegar, and contains ‘the mother’ of vinegar. Mara Seaweed’s dried Applewood Smoked Dulse is infused at the end to boost the overall flavour profile.

The result is a versatile vinegar with smoky, meaty, umami flavours. As with all the vinegars made by Orkney Craft Vinegar, they are softer and more rounded meaning they can be used sparingly to finish dishes or sauces. A brilliant gravy enhancer, fabulous with seafood instead of citrus – and a winner with pan-fried sprouts.

Sam Britten, Orkney Craft Vinegar director and producer, is excited by the newest addition to his range. “I’ve had the idea for making use of the dulse here in Orkney for a while now,” says ex-chef Sam. “I knew exactly what flavour I wanted – almost like smoked bacon – and the finished product is tasting incredible. Umami works really well to enhance the savouriness of ingredients and the combined smoky, meaty flavour is another level. I’m really pleased that Fiona from Mara Seaweed was happy to help – the dried smoked dulse elevates the finished vinegar perfectly.”

Mara Seaweed’s organic dulse for their Great Taste three-star award-winning Applewood Smoked Dulse is also sustainably hand-harvested in Scotland, in the East Neuk of Fife. Fiona Houston, Mara Seaweed co-founder, said: “It’s great to be collaborating with another producer who cares as passionately as we do about showcasing the flavours of Scotland’s natural larder. Our Smoked Dulse is one of our specialist high taste products that offer chefs and home cooks an incredible new taste to inspire their dishes. We can’t wait to get this product out there!”

Smoked Dulse Vinegar (250ml) is available online from Orkney Craft Vinegar and Mara Seaweed priced at £8.50.

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