Ingredients
1 cup (240ml) balsamic vinegar (good quality, mid-range)
1-2 teaspoons granulated sugar, brown sugar, honey, or maple syrup (optional, to taste)
Instructions
Step 1: Pour 1 cup of balsamic vinegar into a small, heavy-bottomed saucepan. If using, stir in 1-2 teaspoons of your chosen sweetener until dissolved.
Step 2: Place the saucepan over medium-high heat and bring the vinegar to a gentle simmer. Do not allow it to boil vigorously.
Step 3: Once simmering, reduce the heat to medium-low. Maintain a consistent, gentle simmer and do not cover the pan.
Step 4: Continue to simmer, stirring occasionally, for 10-20 minutes. The glaze will gradually begin to thicken as the water evaporates.
Step 5: Monitor the consistency carefully. The balsamic glaze is ready when it coats the back of a spoon and you can draw a clean line through it. Remember, it will thicken considerably more as it cools.
Step 6: Remove the saucepan from the heat and allow the balsamic glaze to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes. It will become glossy and reach its final consistency as it cools.
Step 7: Once cooled, transfer the homemade balsamic glaze to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for several weeks, or even months.
Notes
The consistency of your balsamic glaze is key. It should be thick enough to coat a spoon but still pourable. If it becomes too thick after cooling, gently warm it with a teaspoon of water or additional balsamic vinegar to thin it out. For a thinner glaze, reduce for less time; for a thicker, more syrupy glaze, reduce for a little longer, but be careful not to burn it.
- Prep Time: 2 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Category: Main Dishes & Savory Recipes
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tbsp
- Calories: 50 kcal
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg