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Filipino-Style Spiced Vinegar

Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 16 Jan 2026

Meets Patient’s editorial guidelines

This authentic Filipino spiced vinegar, often known as pinakurat, is a quintessential condiment in Southeast Asian cuisine. A punchy, dairy-free infusion of sharp sugarcane vinegar, pungent garlic, and fiery bird’s-eye chillies, it offers a sophisticated balance of heat and acidity. The addition of ginger and a hint of dried fruit provides a subtle sweetness that rounds out the savoury depth of the fish sauce, creating a versatile sauce that cuts beautifully through rich or fried foods.

Ideal as a dipping sauce for grilled meats, crispy spring rolls, or seafood, this homemade staple is an effortless way to elevate a simple meal. Because the flavours continue to develop and intensify the longer they sit, a jar kept in the fridge becomes a reliable pantry hero for adding an instant hit of umami to your favourite savoury dishes.

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Ingredients for Filipino-Style Spiced Vinegar

  • 10 garlic cloves, peeled and sliced

  • 40g (35 g) dried fruit, such as raisins, cherries, or mangos (optional)

  • 5 whole bird’s-eye chillies

  • 1 (3-inch/7.5 cm) knob fresh ginger, scrubbed and minced

  • 1 tablespoon whole black peppercorns

  • 725 to 950ml (720 ml to 1 L) white sugarcane vinegar

  • 60ml (60 ml) fish sauce

How to make Filipino-Style Spiced Vinegar

Put the garlic, dried fruit, chillies, ginger, and peppercorns in a clean glass jar or bottle and cover with the vinegar and fish sauce. Loosely cover or cap the jar and let sit at room temperature in a dark place for 48 hours.

Transfer the jar to the refrigerator. The pinakurat will keep indefinitely, and the flavours will continue to develop over time.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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