Flavored vinegars and oils are quite popular theses days. They make a very thoughtful gift for a hostess, for a housewarming, or for Christmas. If you've priced them though, you know that they aren't cheap. You can make your own version of these trendy little items with a few simple ingredients. Here are a few ideas to get you started.

VINEGARS

Flavored vinegars and oils add an extra kick to marinades, sauces, and dressings. If you are looking for an elegant and thoughtful gift to make for Christmas, try these savory blends that are sure to enhance any meal. If you grow your own herbs, this is a great way to use up any excess before the growing season is over. We hope you enjoy these unique blends.

Vinegar Base

1 small bunch of parsley 1 teaspoon of peppercorns 1/8 teaspoon of salt 1 clove of garlic, peeled 1 quart of your choice of vinegar: cider, white distilled, rice wine, white wine, or red wine

Place the parsley, garlic, salt and pepper in a 2 quart ceramic or glass bowl. Bring the vinegar to a boil. Pour the vinegar over the herbal mixture in the bowl. Cover and let the mixture stand for two days. Strain the mixture and decant into a sterilized bottle. Add one to three sprigs of the herbs of your choice. Seal the bottle with acork or lid. Let stand for two more weeks before using.

Flavor combinations

Tarragon and lemon in white wine vinegar Chives, basil, and parsley in white wine vinegar Oregano, rosemary and thyme in red wine vinegar Lemon and dill in cider vinegar Garlic, chives blossoms and chervil in red wine vinegar Cilantro, jalapeo pepper and lime in white distilled vinegar (this one is hot) Lavender blossoms in cider vinegar Ginger root and cilantro in rice wine vinegar

OILS

1 teaspoon peppercorns 8 to 10 sprigs of your choice of herbs Olive oil to fill the container you are using 1 sterile bottle or wide mouth canning jar

Place the herbs and peppercorns into the sterile bottle or wide mouth canning jar. Use a funnel to decant the olive oil into the bottle to cover the herbs. Seal and let stand for one month before using.

Flavor combinations

Lemon and dill Tarragon and chive Lemon and garlic (one of our favorites) Garlic, onion, and basil Basil and garlic Cilantro and Lime Rosemary and Marjoram Garlic, onion, oregano and red bell pepper

Note: When using large pieces of fruit or vegetables, cut them into small wedges or pieces to fit into the bottle. Use bamboo skewers to hold the pieces together in the bottle.

Use herb vinegar insalad dressings, marinades, or to deglaze pans.

About the Author

Martha Matthews is the Editor of Christian-Homemaking.com, a web site with resources dedicated to Christian homemaking. In addition to her web site, she also has a popular free monthly newsletter for Christian wives called The Wives of Excellence Newsletter. To subscribe send a blank email to wivesofexcellence-subscribe@yahoogroups.com. Or visit our web site at http://www.christian-homemaking.com/newsletter.html