Homemade Pok Pok Som: A Step-by-Step Guide to Making Thai Drinking Vinegar

Ingredients

2 cups of distilled white vinegar
2 cups of granulated sugar
2 cups of water
1 cup of fresh fruit or vegetable of your choice
1 tablespoon of sea salt

Steps and instructions

In a medium-sized pot, combine the vinegar, sugar, and water. Bring this mixture to a boil while stirring frequently.
Once the vinegar mixture has reached a boil, reduce the heat and let it simmer until the sugar is completely dissolved, which should take about 10 minutes.
While the vinegar mixture is simmering, prepare your chosen fruit or vegetable. If using fruit, remove the pits and slice into small pieces. If using a vegetable, chop it into bite-sized pieces. Place the prepared fruit or vegetable in a large, clean jar.
After the sugar in the vinegar mixture has dissolved, remove the pot from the heat and add the sea salt. Stir until the salt is completely dissolved.
Pour the vinegar mixture over the prepared fruit or vegetable, ensuring that they are fully submerged. Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature.
Once cooled, cover the jar tightly with a lid. Store the Pok Pok Som in the refrigerator for 24 hours before consuming to allow the flavors to meld together.
After 24 hours, the Pok Pok Som is ready to be enjoyed. It can be drunk as is, or used as a flavoring in cocktails or other recipes. The remaining Pok Pok Som can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a month.

Tools for making

Medium-sized pot - Needed to combine and simmer the vinegar mixture.
Large, clean jar - Used to store the prepared fruit or vegetable and the vinegar mixture.
Lid - To tightly cover the jar and seal in the flavors.

Recipe variations

Experiment with different types of vinegar such as apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar for unique flavors.
Add herbs or spices to the vinegar mixture for extra flavor. For example, you can try adding ginger, lemongrass, or chili peppers.
Instead of using granulated sugar, try using honey or maple syrup as a sweetener.
Use different fruits or vegetables in the recipe. Some popular choices include strawberries, raspberries, pineapples, or cucumbers.
For a savory twist, you can add garlic, onions, or herbs like basil or cilantro to the mixture.
Add a splash of citrus juice such as lemon or lime to brighten the flavors.
Adjust the level of sweetness or tartness by increasing or decreasing the amount of sugar or vinegar used.
Experiment with different ratios of water to vinegar to achieve your desired level of acidity.

Recipe overview

This recipe will help you to create a refreshing and versatile Pok Pok Som, a traditional Thai drinking vinegar. This sweet and sour concoction is simple to create with just a few ingredients, including distilled white vinegar, granulated sugar, water, fresh fruit or vegetable of your choice, and sea salt. You'll start by creating a sweetened vinegar base, then infuse it with the flavors of your chosen fruit or vegetable. After a short resting period in the refrigerator, this zesty drink will be ready to consume on its own or used as a vibrant addition to cocktails or other recipes. It's a delightful way to explore the flavorful world of Thai cuisine.

Common questions

Can I use a different type of vinegar? Yes, you can use other types of vinegar such as apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar, but keep in mind that it may alter the flavor of the Pok Pok Som.
Can I use a different sweetener instead of granulated sugar? Yes, you can substitute granulated sugar with honey, agave syrup, or other sweeteners of your choice. Just note that it may affect the taste slightly.
How long should I let the Pok Pok Som sit before consuming? It is recommended to let the Pok Pok Som sit in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours before consuming to allow the flavors to develop fully.
Can I use frozen fruit instead of fresh? Fresh fruit is preferred for this recipe, but you can use frozen fruit if fresh is not available. Thaw it before using and ensure it is fully drained to prevent excess water in the mixture.
Can I adjust the amount of salt used? Yes, you can adjust the amount of sea salt according to your taste preference. Start with the recommended tablespoon and add more if desired.

Serving dishes and utensils

Large pot - For boiling the vinegar mixture
Medium-sized jar - To store the prepared Pok Pok Som
Spoon - To stir the vinegar mixture
Knife - For preparing the fruit or vegetable
Cutting board - To safely chop the fruit or vegetable
Measuring cups - To accurately measure the ingredients
Lid - To cover the jar tightly during the fermentation process

Origin stories

Pok Pok Som, also known as Thai drinking vinegar, has a fascinating story attached to its origin. It is a product of the creative genius of Andy Ricker, the chef who brought Thai cuisine to the forefront in Portland, Oregon. Ricker, a James Beard Award-winning chef, was inspired by the local drinking vinegars he encountered during his travels in Thailand. He decided to recreate these refreshing beverages back in America at his restaurant, Pok Pok. Initially made for use in cocktails at the restaurant, Pok Pok Som soon became a standalone hit, enjoyed for its unique, tangy flavor and health benefits. Its popularity quickly extended beyond the Portland dining scene, and it is now a staple in home kitchens and bars across the country. True to its roots, Pok Pok Som embraces the Thai tradition of combining simple ingredients to create complex flavors.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.