Description
This easy homemade balsamic glaze recipe transforms simple balsamic vinegar into a rich, syrupy condiment perfect for drizzling over salads, roasted vegetables, grilled meats, or fresh fruit. With just balsamic vinegar and optional sweetness from honey or brown sugar, it’s a versatile and flavorful addition to your kitchen staples.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients
- 1 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar (optional, for sweetness)
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: Pour the balsamic vinegar into a small saucepan. If using honey or brown sugar, add it now to the vinegar to infuse sweetness during the reduction process.
- Bring to Boil: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, ensuring it starts to bubble steadily.
- Simmer and Reduce: Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently. Stir occasionally to prevent burning and promote even reduction.
- Thicken: Continue simmering for about 15–20 minutes, or until the vinegar has reduced by half and thickened to a syrupy texture that coats the back of a spoon.
- Cool and Store: Remove the saucepan from heat and allow the glaze to cool completely; it will thicken further as it cools. Transfer the glaze into an airtight container or glass jar and store it in the refrigerator for up to 1 month.
Notes
- Do not over-reduce the vinegar since the glaze thickens more upon cooling.
- If the glaze becomes too thick after refrigeration, reheat slightly to restore pourable consistency.
- Use this balsamic glaze over salads, roasted vegetables, grilled meats, or fresh fruit such as strawberries for added flavor.
