How to Make Balsamic Glaze

Learn how to make balsamic glaze with this easy recipe that uses only a hint of brown sugar and balsamic vinegar. It’s super easy and can be used on anything from chicken and Brussels sprouts to strawberries and ice cream. Makes about 1/2 cup.

Why I love this balsamic glaze recipe

Balsamic glaze – also known as balsamic reduction – is one of those things that I never considered making at home. In the past, I didn’t really care for it or think it was cool enough to give it a second thought once I left a restaurant.

But a few weeks ago, something changed. I went to this new restaurant in town, Rustique, where I had pesto everything, (I may have mentioned this in my last post or two) but each piece of my pesto-laden meal was crowned with this liquid gem – balsamic glaze.

Suddenly, I couldn’t stop thinking about balsamic reduction. It’s thick, tangy, sweet and syrupy. It’s the perfect compliment to a garlicky pesto sauce or some sweet strawberries.

Even a hearty pork tenderloin or a simple salad. And, guess what. It’s easy to make at home. It only requires two ingredients and a little bit of patience. Try making some this weekend. You’ll see.

Here’s what you’ll need to make balsamic glaze

• Glass measuring cup
• Measuring spoons
• Large saucepan or skillet
• Wire whisk
• Mason jar or other storage container

How to make balsamic glaze

Mix vinegar and sugar. Place your ingredients in a large saucepan or skillet. I prefer to use a stainless steel pan so I can using a wire whisk, but you can use whatever you have with the appropriate tools.

Heat the pan over medium heat until it starts to bubble, but don’t let it come to a complete boil. Since every stove is different, reduce the heat if necessary.

Simmer until thick. Let the mixture continue to cook until it reduces by half. Stir occasionally so nothing sticks, and make sure you keep an eye on it so it doesn’t completely evaporate.

Once the glaze can coat the back of a spoon, it’s ready. Remove from heat and let the balsamic glaze cool.

FAQs and Tips for making balsamic reduction

What is balsamic glaze made of? Balsamic reduction is usually made with balsamic vinegar and sweetened with a bit of sugar to counteract the acidity. Although it can be made with just balsamic vinegar.

Is balsamic vinaigrette the same things as balsamic glaze? No. Balsamic vinaigrette is made with oil, and seasonings like garlic, Dijon mustard and salt & pepper. Glaze is simple reduced balsamic vinegar with a tough of sweetness added.

How many calories are in a teaspoon of balsamic glaze? One teaspoon on balsamic reduction will contain about 10-12 calories, depending on the amount of sugar added.

How long does balsamic glaze last? You can store this reduction in the fridge for up to 1 month. After that, use your best judgement before consuming it.

This recipe would be great with:

• Pesto fries
• Grilled peaches
• Tomato bruschetta or tomato salad
• Kale and Brussel sprouts salad
• Glazed carrots

More homemade condiment recipes:

• Cocktail sauce
• Tartar sauce
• Rhubarb BBQ sauce
• Garlic aioli
• Pizza sauce
• Spicy sushi sauce
• Salted caramel sauce
• Vegan tzatziki

Balsamic Glaze

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Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Servings 8 servings

Balsamic Reduction | Learn how to make your own balsamic glaze with this easy recipe that uses only a hint of brown sugar and balsamic vinegar. It’s super easy and can be used on anything from chicken and Brussel sprouts to sweet strawberries and ice cream. #balsamic #condiments

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Ingredients

• 1 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar

Instructions

• In a small saucepan or frying pan, heat vinegar and sugar over medium heat.
• Bring to a simmer and continue cooking until liquid has thickened enough to coat a spoon, or it has desired thickness.
• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Nutrition

Calories: 34kcal Carbohydrates: 7g Protein: 0.2g Sodium: 8mg Sugar: 6g

Did you make this recipe?

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