Balsamic glaze is one of my favorite ingredients. It is the product of a balsamic vinegar reduction and the outcome has a rich, smooth, slightly sweet taste. Balsamic glaze provides lots of flavor without fat or excess calories. It is a great accent to many dishes: splashed on salads, veggie pizza, bruschetta, roasted or grilled veggies…the options are endless. Balsamic glaze can be purchased in a specialty food store or can be easily made in your own kitchen. Here’s how:
Balsamic Glaze (makes 1/2 cup): Start with 2 cups balsamic vinegar. Pour into a saucepan and simmer for 20 to 30 minutes. The reduction is complete when it is thick and coats a spoon (and has the consistency of chocolate syrup). Some people use up to 1/2 cup of brown sugar during the reduction for a sweeter finish. This end product is best suited for dessert toppings on ice cream or grilled fruit or fruit crumbles. But for the purposes I described above, no added sugar is necessary. The reduction can be stored in a covered container in the refrigerator for several weeks. ENJOY!!
See Strawberry Brie Bites Bites for another recipe featuring balsamic glaze!