ume vinegar is a type of Japanese vinegar that is made by adding umeboshi (fermented, salted Japanese plums) to rice vinegar. it has a salty, tangy flavour and is often used in Japanese cooking to add flavour and aroma to dishes, such as marinades, sauces, soups and dressings. Ume vinegar can also be used as a condiment to season vegetables, noodles and rice. It is also often used in the preparation of desserts and sweets in Japan.