Balsamic Vinegar

Vinegar, Condiment

Balsamic Vinegar Vinegar, Condiment

At a Glance

  • Category Vinegar, Condiment

The Forktionary Angle

"Italy's cherished "balsamic" elixir, transforming simple ingredients into gourmet experiences."

Definition

A dark, concentrated, and intensely flavored vinegar originating from Italy, made from grape must and aged in wooden barrels.

Acidity Level 4-6%
Key Chemical Reaction Maillard reaction (aging)
Traditional Origin Modena, Italy

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Balsamic Vinegar are:

Sweet-tart complex rich fruity woody

Chef’s Secret

Reduce good quality balsamic vinegar slowly to a syrupy glaze; it concentrates the flavors and sweetness, perfect for finishing desserts or savory dishes.

Best Substitutes

Red wine vinegar + touch of honey/maple syrup

Ratio 1:1

Apple cider vinegar + brown sugar

Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

Look for "Aceto Balsamico Tradizionale" for true aged quality, or "Aceto Balsamico di Modena PGI" for a good everyday option.

Recipes Using Balsamic Vinegar

30 Minutes Or Less Course Time To Make Salads

Baby Greens Salad With Cranberry Balsamic Vinaigrette

Impress your guests with this elegant Baby Greens Salad, perfect for holiday brunches or dinner parties! This recipe features a vibrant cranberry balsamic vinaigrette and a delightful mix of textures – crunchy walnuts, sweet cranberries, and creamy goat cheese (or mild blue cheese!). Inspired by Mary Ann Vitale, owner of La Taverna Restaurant in La Jolla, CA, this salad is easy to make yet tastes incredibly gourmet. Get ready to elevate your next gathering!

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Main Ingredient American Preparation Taste Mood

Balsamic Roasted Apple Jack Cheese Quesadilla

Elevate your quesadilla game with this gourmet twist! Sweet and tart balsamic roasted apples mingle perfectly with sharp Jack cheese in a warm, flaky tortilla. Inspired by Chef Jamie Gwen, this recipe is surprisingly simple to make and bursting with flavor. Easily adaptable – try it with Bosc pears and Brie for a sophisticated variation! Anjou, Bartlett, or Comice pears also work well – just ensure they're firm, not overripe. Get ready for a flavor explosion!

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Time To Make Dietary Easy Vegetables

Avocado With Alfalfa

This vibrant and healthy appetizer or light lunch is ready in 5 minutes! Packed with the goodness of avocados – known for lowering cholesterol, fighting cancer, and protecting your eyesight – and the delightful crunch of alfalfa sprouts, this recipe is a delicious and nutritious treat. Inspired by the September 2005 issue of Delicious magazine (Australia).

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Weeknight Preparation Comfort Food Poultry

Balsamic Chicken Over A Corn Puree

Elevate your dinner with this elegant yet simple Balsamic Glazed Chicken over Creamy Corn Puree! Perfect for a romantic dinner party or a family-style meal, this recipe boasts tender chicken breasts bathed in a rich balsamic reduction, served atop a smooth and flavorful corn puree. The combination of sweet corn, savory bacon, and tangy balsamic creates a symphony of tastes that will impress even the most discerning palates. Pair with crusty bread and a fresh green salad for a complete and unforgettable culinary experience.

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Vegetables Chicken Preparation Meat

Balsamico Roast Chicken And Potatoes

This irresistible Balsamic Roast Chicken and Potatoes recipe, inspired by Lynne Caspar's "The Italian Country Table," is a family favorite and perfect for entertaining! Don't be intimidated by the ingredient list – the flavorful rub is easily minced and applied. Enjoy a perfectly roasted chicken and tender potatoes with minimal effort – mostly hands-off cooking!

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Dietary North American Chicken Occasion

Balsamic Chicken And Veggies

This vibrant Italian-inspired dish features juicy chicken and crisp-tender asparagus and carrots, all tossed in a luscious balsamic honey dressing. A simple recipe ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for a weeknight meal! Top with your favorite shredded cheese for extra cheesy goodness. From BHG.

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Occasion Main Ingredient Easy Low Saturated Fat

All White Bean Salad

This refreshing and flavorful All-White Bean Salad is perfect for a light lunch or side dish. Inspired by "Express Lane Diabetic Cooking," this recipe lets the flavors meld beautifully as it chills, creating a delicious and healthy meal that's surprisingly easy to make. Enjoy this low-carb, high-protein salad that's perfect for meal prepping!

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Saltwater Fish Salmon Saltwater Fish Low Saturated Fat

Balsamic Glazed Cracked Pepper Salmon Clean Eating

Experience the delightful flavors of fall with this quick and healthy Balsamic Glazed Cracked Pepper Salmon recipe! Perfectly pan-seared salmon fillets are coated in a luscious balsamic glaze, creating a dish that's both elegant and easy to make. Serve this delicious clean-eating recipe with brown rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal. This updated recipe features a refined balsamic glaze based on popular user feedback.

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Time To Make Potluck Occasion Pacific Northwest

4Th Of July Grilled Salmon Or Chicken

Celebrate Independence Day with this vibrant and flavorful grilled salmon or chicken recipe! Perfect for a crowd, this easy marinade transforms simple protein into a delicious summer feast. Marinate your choice of salmon fillets or chicken breasts for ultimate juicy tenderness. Grilled to perfection and bursting with Asian-inspired flavors, this recipe is a guaranteed showstopper. Leftovers make fantastic sandwiches! Get ready for rave reviews!

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Preparation Holiday Event Lettuces Vegan

Arugula Salad With Pomegranate And Toasted Pecans

Wow your guests with this vibrant and flavorful arugula salad! Forget heavy dressings – this recipe relies on the incredible textures and tastes of peppery arugula, juicy pomegranate seeds, and crunchy toasted pecans. A simple, light vinaigrette brings it all together for a sophisticated yet easy-to-make salad perfect for any occasion. Recipe adapted from Epicurious.

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Time To Make 30 Minutes Or Less Easy Time To Make

Argentina Special Salad

This vibrant salad, inspired by a Greek taverna in Pelion, is a flavour explosion! Forget the main course – this delightful mix of crisp lettuce, creamy mozzarella, crunchy walnuts, and sweet sun-dried tomatoes will steal the show. Perfect for a light lunch, summer dinner, or a side dish that's anything but ordinary. Get ready for a taste sensation!

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Weeknight Main Ingredient Time To Make Thanksgiving

Balsamic Roasted Onions

These balsamic roasted onions are unbelievably delicious – a truly epic recipe! Perfectly caramelized and bursting with flavor, they're so good you might eat them straight from the pan before they even make it to the table (we're not judging!). This recipe, originally from Epicurious, serves 10 (though it may disappear much faster!), creating a simple yet unforgettable side dish or appetizer.

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Finger Food Preparation Low In Something Main Ingredient

Artichokes With Jalapeno Mayonnaise

Elevate your appetizer game with these Spicy Artichokes! Tender artichoke hearts are beautifully arranged and topped with a creamy, spicy jalapeño mayonnaise. A perfect blend of savory and zesty flavors that will impress your guests. Get ready for a flavor explosion!

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Time To Make Time To Make Main Ingredient Preparation

Beets With Balsamic Orange Dressing

Elevate your dinner with this vibrant and flavorful Roasted Beets with Balsamic Orange Dressing recipe! Inspired by a decadent duck glaze, this recipe showcases the naturally sweet flavor of roasted beets, perfectly complemented by a tangy balsamic orange dressing. An easy and elegant side dish, it's the perfect accompaniment to roast chicken, pork, or even grilled fish. The earthy beets and bright dressing create a stunning and delicious combination that will impress your guests.

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5 Ingredients Or Less Preparation Easy 5 Ingredients Or Less

Avocado Radish Salad

This vibrant Avocado Radish Salad is a quick and easy recipe that delivers a burst of fresh flavors and textures. A simple combination of creamy avocado, crisp radishes, and a tangy balsamic vinaigrette, this salad is perfect for a light lunch, a healthy side dish, or a refreshing appetizer. Discover the perfect balance of creamy, crunchy, and tangy in just 10 minutes!

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Vegetarian Beginner Cook Salads Time To Make

Barley Salad

This hearty barley salad is a fantastic vegetarian main course or a delightful side dish for any meal. The use of hulled barley provides a delightful chewy texture, while pearled barley offers a softer alternative. Bursting with fresh flavors and vibrant veggies, this recipe is quick to prepare and incredibly satisfying. Perfect for potlucks, weeknight dinners, or a healthy lunch!

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Time To Make Salad Dressings Stove Top Preparation

Balsamic Port Drizzle

Elevate your salads with this exquisite Balsamic Port Drizzle! Ruby-red port wine lends sophisticated sweetness and depth to this easy-to-make dressing, perfect for drizzling over dark leafy greens, juicy plums, golden raisins, or dried apricots. Toasted nuts and crumbled goat cheese add delightful texture and richness. This sophisticated dressing is the perfect finishing touch for a memorable salad. Recipe adapted from Eating Well.

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