Balsamic Fig Glaze Recipe

This Balsamic Fig Glaze Recipe only has two ingredients and is so easy to make. It is perfect on salads, pork tenderloin, chicken, and more!

Do you remember eating Fig Newtons as a kid? Or maybe you still love them? Growing up, I had never seen a fig tree or fresh figs, but I loved the flavor of the cookies. 

I'm happy to report that by using just balsamic vinegar and fig preserves you can make a tangy and sweet sauce that is a simple way to boost salads, savory dishes, and even desserts. 

Few things elevate a dish like a drizzle of balsamic fig glaze. The deep, complex flavors of balsamic vinegar meld seamlessly with the natural sweetness of figs, creating a versatile condiment that can transform ordinary meals into extraordinary ones.

If you're grilling chicken breasts, roasting pork loin, or tossing green beans, this fig balsamic glaze recipe will take your culinary creations to the next level.

Whether you're a seasoned chef or a home cook, this balsamic fig glaze will elevate both sweet and savory dishes to new heights. 

Also, try a few different variations like this homemade balsamic glaze or raspberry balsamic glaze. If you are looking for something a little less sweet this fig balsamic vinegar is just right!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• This balsamic fig sauce is made with just two ingredients!
• The rich, robust flavor of balsamic vinegar combines with the luscious sweetness of figs, creating a sauce that pairs effortlessly with chicken, pork, vegetables, and even soft cheeses. 
• This glaze is the secret ingredient that can transform an ordinary meal into a gourmet experience.

Recipe Ingredients

To make this exquisite balsamic fig glaze, you'll need the following ingredients:

Balsamic Vinegar adds a tangy punch to the balsamic glaze.

Fig Preserves or Fig Jam sweetens the glaze and adds a nice fig flavor.

Substitutions

If you're looking to experiment with this recipe or make it your own, there are a few substitutions you can consider:

• Fresh Figs can replace the fig preserves. Remove the stems and cut the fresh figs in quarters. Add them to the balsamic vinegar. Strain them out when the glaze is finished cooking.
• Dried Figs can be a substitute for fig preserves. Slice about a ½ cup of dried figs in quarters and add them to the balsamic. Strain them out after the glaze is finished.

How to Make Homemade Balsamic Fig Glaze

Here are some quick visual instructions. The full recipe with ingredient measurements is in the recipe card below!

In a small saucepan, add the balsamic vinegar and fig preserves. Whisk it together.

Bring it to a simmer on medium-high heat and reduce the heat to low. Allow it to gently simmer until it has reduced by about half.

The glaze should be a slightly thicker consistency and coat the back of a cold spoon. It will continue to thicken as it cools.

Remove it from heat and allow the balsamic fig glaze to cool to room temperature.

Recipe Tips & Tricks

• You can use a fine mesh sieve to strain the seeds if you want the glaze to be perfectly smooth.
• If your glaze thickens too much after cooling, simply warm it gently on the stove with a small amount of water to reach your desired consistency.
• This would be great to serve on a charcuterie board and learn What to Serve After a Charcuterie Board.

Storage

Store your balsamic fig glaze in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should last for up to two weeks. If you need to extend its shelf life, consider freezing it in small portions for later use.

How to Use Balsamic Fig Glaze

The uses for this balsamic fig glaze are as diverse as your culinary imagination. Here are a few different dishes to get you started:

• Drizzle it over grilled chicken breasts or pork chops for a burst of flavor.
• Brush it onto pork loin or tenderloin before roasting for a sweet and savory glaze.
• Toss roasted green beans in the glaze for a sweet contrast.
• Create a fig chicken sandwich by spreading it on plain bread with goat cheese.
• Serve it as a dipping sauce for soft cheeses and fresh thyme.
• Use it as a condiment for hearty soups and stews to add depth and complexity to the flavors.
• Use it to make a sweet balsamic fig glaze salad dressing.

Variations

Get creative with your balsamic fig glaze by experimenting with different ingredients. Try adding fresh raspberries to make a raspberry balsamic glaze.

You can add caramelized onions for an extra layer of sweetness or fresh thyme for an herbal twist.

The possibilities are endless, and this glaze will undoubtedly become your go-to secret ingredient for enhancing the flavors of your favorite dishes.

Frequently Asked Questions

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