Goat Cheese Steak with Balsamic Glaze Recipe - Rachel Cooks® (2024)

FAQs

Is balsamic glaze and balsamic reduction the same thing? ›

Balsamic glaze is also called a “balsamic reduction.” It is essentially a reduction of balsamic vinegar. Additional sweeteners like honey or sugar can be added. The balsamic vinegar is simmered in a saucepan until it has reduced down and thickened to a maple-syrup consistency.

Add the vinegar to a small saucepan and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat and simmer, stirring often, until thick and reduced, about 8 to 12 minutes. The timing will depend on your desired thickness. The balsamic will also thicken as it cools.

Balsamic vinegar shines in dressings, marinades, and drizzled over fresh summer salads. Its versatility extends to enhancing the natural sweetness of fruits, making it a delightful addition to desserts. On the other hand, balsamic glaze is perfect as a finishing touch.

Balsamic glaze can still be used as seasoning, as a substitute for Balsamic Vinegar, although it would be preferable to use it as a garnish.

While refrigeration after opening is required for many pantry staples, it is not necessary for balsamic vinegar. Putting the balsamic vinegar in the fridge can potentially cause condensation to form on the inside of the bottle, diluting the flavor.

This versatile vinegar may enhance skin health, support healthy weight maintenance by increasing satiety, promote digestive health, lower blood pressure and improve blood sugar control. However, overconsumption may damage tooth enamel and lead to acid reflux or heartburn.

Balsamics' enemies are light and heat, so cool, dark storage spaces are best. If you're using balsamic vinegars primarily for salads and like them chilled, they can be refrigerated. If you're using them for sauces, marinades, and reductions, store them in a cupboard.

For every 1 Tbsp. balsamic vinegar, substitute 1 Tbsp. cider vinegar or red wine vinegar plus ½ tsp. sugar.

The main difference between balsamic glaze and balsamic vinaigrette lies in their consistency and usage. Balsamic glaze has a thick syrupy consistency, while balsamic vinaigrette is thinner and pourable.

Some people swear by a mixture of soy sauce and grape jelly—or you may try tinkering with a blend of soy sauce, lemon juice, and molasses. Again, these substitutes can be used in the same amounts as balsamic vinegar in recipes. Just taste as you go to assess the flavor of your substitute.

How do you use balsamic reduction? ›

Pairs great with goat cheese or make a watermelon goat cheese salad. For dessert, try strawberries and ice cream with a balsamic glaze. Add some to grilled or roasted vegetables such as Brussels sprouts (with honey too), bacon wrapped asparagus, broccoli, or green beans – you'll never look at veggies the same way!