Balsamic Vinegar Glop

[Norma]

I made a salad dressing last night and when I went to add the vinegar, there were little gloppy things floating around in it. They looked like congealed bits of the vinegar and drier flakier things. Not very appetizing although when I whisked the dressing they disappeared. Does anyone know what's going on here?

[Beth]

I think the crystals are a sediment, perhaps aceatic acid (sp?). If you get a gloppy mass, that is called the "mother," and it can be used to start a new vinegar. Not harmful, but I don't remember what causes it either. Strain or just pour carefully and leave them behind.

[sneezles]

I know that there is setiment in the vinegar that will mix up if you shake the bottle. I try not to shake and when I get to the bottom I usually use a small sieve to strain the vinegar.