Southwest Vinegar

Cheri Clotiaux Stringer (originally from Southern Living)

Yield: 10 cups

This makes flavorful vinegar and beautiful gifts. Don’t forget to include some recipes as to how your recipients might use it, e.g. salad dressings, marinades, etc. (Dec 1996) 

1 large bunch fresh cilantro

10-12 fresh jalapeño peppers, unseeded and cut in half lengthwise

10-12 cloves garlic, cut in half lengthwise

1 lime, thinly sliced

10-12 dried tomato halves

1 tsp black peppercorns

5 (17oz) bottles white wine vinegar

Fresh cilantro sprigs and line slices (optional) 

Twist cilantro stems gently. Place cilantro and next 5 ingredients in large glass container. Bring vinegar to a boil and pour over cilantro mixture. Cover and let stand at room temperature for 2 weeks. 

Pour mixture through a large wire mesh strainer into decorative bottle, discarding solids. Thread additional cilantro sprigs and lime slices onto wooden skewers, if desired and place in bottles. 

Seal bottles and store in a cool dark place. 

Note: Will keep for 6 months in a cool dark place.