You probably have at least one bottle of vinegar in your cupboard. It may not seem too exciting to some people, but vinegar easily one of the most important ingredients in any kitchen. The tangy, acidic liquid has been used for over 10,000 years for food preservation, cooking, medicine, and cleaning, according to the Encyclopedia of Food Sciences and Nutrition. Whether it’s in sauces and dressings or household cleaners, vinegar is one of the most versatile pantry staples.

Here’s everything you need to know about this powerful, multipurpose ingredient and its many varieties.