Red wine vinegar in cooking
Question
Can I use red wine vinegar in cooking?
Answer
Vinegar is generally lawful based on the words of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) who said: "Vinegar is the best condiment" (recorded by Ahmed and Al-Tirmdhi). Acetification is the process by which a liquid is converted into acid. Based on this, it is lawful to consume any intoxicating liquid or other substances that have converted into vinegar, whether spontaneously or through the manufacturing process.
The fact that red wine vinegar contains a negligent amount of alcohol does not make it unlawful. This is because any drink that has been mixed with a minute amount of an intoxicant is not intoxicating even if consumed in large quantities. It is lawful and does not fall under the prohibition mentioned in the primary texts.
And God the Almighty knows best.