A balsamic vinegar reduction is a concentrated and thickened version of balsamic vinegar that is made by cooking down the vinegar until it has reduced. The balsamic flavor will become more intense and the consistency will thicken. A balsamic reduction is great for salads where you want to add a burst of flavor. It goes great with vegetables and also with meats. If you like using olive oil and vinegar for dipping with bread, using a balsamic reduction will make it even more delicious.

Also, if you can’t find good quality balsamic vinegar or the good stuff is too pricey, then you can improve the taste of the not so great balsamic vinegar by reducing it. Keep in mind though, you will likely be cutting the actual amount of vinegar by half, so if the good stuff is only a few $$ more, then it might not be worth it. However, you will need less of the concentrated balsamic reduction than you will with regular balsamic.

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Balsamic Vinegar Reduction

5 from 1 vote

Recipe by Flip Flop Foodies Course: CondimentsCuisine: ItalianDifficulty: Easy

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

30

minutes

Cooking time

40

minutes

Ingredients

• 2 cups 2 balsamic vinegar

• Optional Ingredients for a Flavored Balsamic Reduction:

• 1 clove 1 garlic, lightly crushed

• 2 – 3 sprigs 2 – 3 fresh herbs (thyme, oregano, basil, etc.)

Directions

• Place the balsamic vinegar in a small saucepan and cook over medium low heat until the vinegar has reduced to at least half of the original amount (about 30 minutes for 2 cups of vinegar to reduce to 1 cup). For a concentrated but still liquid balsamic sauce you can cook it until it reduces by half. For a thicker glaze type sauce cook it until it’s reduced to ½ cup (1/4 of the original volume).
• As soon as the balsamic reduction reaches the consistency and concentration level that you prefer, remove it from the heat, and let it cool down. If you added crushed garlic or herbs you can remove them with a slotted spoon or strain the reduction. Place in container or bottle and use as needed.

Inspired by Laylita