Caramelized Balsamic Vinegar

Homemade caramelized balsamic vinegar is a sweet and thick balsamic glaze that adds a punch of flavor to salads, fruit, and even desserts!

With just a few simple ingredients and a little time, you can create a versatile and delicious condiment that will become a staple in your kitchen. 

Whether you're a gourmet chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this simple balsamic glaze recipe is a must-try that will undoubtedly become one of your favorite recipes.

Turn this caramelized balsamic vinegar into a delicious Balsamic Glaze Vinaigrette. Try a new variation and make a balsamic fig glaze!

What is Caramelized Balsamic Vinegar?

Caramelized balsamic vinegar, often referred to as "balsamic reduction" or "balsamic glaze," is a thick and syrupy sauce that is made by cooking down balsamic vinegar until it becomes concentrated and takes on a sweeter, more intense flavor.

The process of caramelization involves reducing the vinegar over heat, causing its natural sugars to caramelize and deepen in flavor, resulting in a rich and versatile condiment.

To make caramelized balsamic vinegar, you would typically start with a good quality balsamic vinegar, preferably the traditional aged balsamic vinegar or balsamic vinegar of Modena. The vinegar is then simmered over medium to low heat, allowing the liquid to evaporate and the flavors to concentrate. As the vinegar reduces, its sugars undergo caramelization, resulting in a thicker consistency and a sweeter taste.

Caramelized balsamic vinegar is commonly used to add depth and complexity to a variety of dishes. Its syrupy texture makes it an excellent drizzle for salads, roasted vegetables, meats, and even desserts. Its tangy and slightly sweet flavor profile makes it a versatile ingredient that can enhance both savory and sweet dishes.

Take a look at this other blog post for more information about the difference between Balsamic Glaze vs Balsamic Vinegar.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Caramelized balsamic vinegar is so versatile. Whether you are drizzling it over a caprese salad, finishing off a plate of pork chops, or adding a tangy touch to your favorite desserts.
• Balsamic vinegar reduction is easy to make at home with just two ingredients.
• The syrupy consistency is thick and sweet.
• This simple homemade balsamic glaze recipe will become your go-to condiment for enhancing a wide variety of dishes.

Recipe Ingredients

What makes this sweet balsamic glaze recipe so fantastic is the combination of simple ingredients that come together to create a flavor-packed masterpiece. To prepare this homemade glaze, you'll need the following ingredients.

Balsamic Vinegar of Modena for the best quality and flavor.

White Sugar or a little Brown Sugar for added sweetness.

Substitutions

• Caramelized balsamic vinegar can be made without sugar. It is more of a reduction of balsamic vinegar and will still be sweet, tangy, and have a beautiful dark color, but not as sweet.
• White sugar, brown sugar, honey, and maple syrup can all be used interchangeably to replace the tablespoon of sugar.

How to Make Caramelized Balsamic Vinegar

This glaze can be made at home by following a simple recipe. It's a fantastic way to elevate your dishes with a burst of intense flavor and a touch of elegance. 

Here's a step-by-step guide to making your own balsamic glaze. The full recipe card with ingredient measurements is below!

In a small saucepan, combine the balsamic vinegar, maple syrup (or brown sugar). Mix well to combine the ingredients.

Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally with a wooden spoon.

As the glaze cooks, it will gradually reduce the volume by half or more. It will also slightly thicken. You'll know it's ready when it coats the back of a spoon.  As the delicious glaze cools it will become a thick syrupy consistency.

Recipe Tips & Tricks

• Reduction time varies by the size of the saucepan.
• Use the best quality balsamic vinegar you can find. Aged balsamic vinegar of Modena will give your glaze a rich, intense flavor.
• Adjust the sweetness according to your personal preference. If you like a sweeter glaze, add a little extra sugar.
• Cooking the glaze over low heat allows it to slowly reduce and develop its deep, rich flavor. Avoid using high heat to prevent burning.
• Make a large batch by doubling the recipe.

Storage

Once you've made caramelized balsamic vinegar, you'll want to ensure it stays fresh and delicious for as long as possible. 

• Storage: After allowing the balsamic vinegar glaze to cool to room temperature, transfer the glaze to an airtight container or clean glass jar. Store it in the refrigerator, and your balsamic glaze will keep for about one month, ready to be used whenever your dishes need that perfect finishing touch.

Ways to Use Caramelized Balsamic Vinegar

The versatility of this easy glaze recipe is truly remarkable, and there are countless ways to enjoy its tangy flavor. Here are just a few ideas for a flavorful topping:

• Drizzle over Pizza: Add a finishing touch to Margherita pizza or this prosciutto pizza with pears and pistachios.
• On Top of Salads: Drizzle over caprese salad, mixed greens, or roasted brussel sprouts for an irresistible tangy condiment.
• The Perfect Addition to Appetizers: One of my favorite ways to use this tangy balsamic glaze is on bruschetta or bread dipping sauce with olive oil.
• Sweet and Savory Protein: Elevate pork chops, balsamic chicken, or even grilled steak with a sweet reduction glaze.
• Dessert Delight: Give your vanilla ice cream or cream cheese-topped crackers a touch of sophistication with a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
• Fruit Finesse: Enhance the natural sweetness of fresh fruit such as fresh strawberries or ripe peaches with a syrupy glaze.
• Side Dish Star: Add a finishing touch to roasted sweet potatoes or other vegetables for a flavor explosion.
• The Perfect Balance to Aged Cheese: Pair with aged cheeses like Parmesan or gouda for a delightful contrast of flavors. 

Variations

Caramelized balsamic vinegar is flavorful on it its own, but it is so fun to try different glaze variations.

• Balsamic Fig Glaze is made with fig preserves and balsamic vinegar. It has a delicate fig flavor.
• Raspberry Balsamic Glaze uses fresh or frozen raspberries to make a deep red glaze that tastes as beautiful as it looks.

Frequently Asked Questions

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