Balsamic Glaze vs Balsamic Vinaigrette - Thyme For The Table (2024)

Let's explore the difference between balsamic glaze vs balsamic vinaigrette and learn how to make a balsamic glaze and balsamic vinaigrette.

When it comes to adding a burst of flavor to your dishes, balsamic glaze and balsamic vinaigrette are two great options. While they both feature the tangy flavor of balsamic vinegar, they differ in their consistency and usage.

Balsamic glaze and balsamic vinaigrette are both fantastic ways to incorporate the rich, tangy flavor of balsamic vinegar into your culinary creations. Whether you prefer a thick, syrupy consistency or a pourable dressing, there are numerous recipes and delicious ways to enjoy these condiments.

Keep a bottle of balsamic glaze and balsamic vinaigrette in your pantry as versatile staples for everyday use. So, whether you're drizzling balsamic glaze over a Caprese salad or tossing balsamic vinaigrette with roasted vegetables, these delightful condiments will surely elevate your dishes to new heights of flavor.

By making your own homemade balsamic vinaigrette or balsamic vinegar glaze, you have control over the ingredients and can experiment with unique flavors.

Recipes with Balsamic Vinegar

Balsamic Vinegar Facts

Traditional Balsamic Vinegar DOP (aceto balsamico tradizionale) is the highest grade balsamic vinegar. Although many steps are taken to create this vinegar, it starts as freshly squeezed grape juice and ends the process as it is aged for at least 12 years in wooden barrels.

Traditional balsamic vinegar is substantially more expensive than its counterparts. However, it has a rich flavor due to the long aging process.

Balsamic Vinegar of Modena IGP is what we more commonly see in grocery stores in the United States. It is often a combination of grape must, wine vinegar, and sometimes a small amount of caramel color. Aged balsamic vinegar of Modena is kept for at least 3 years and kept in wooden containers for at least 60 days.

Balsamic vinegar of Modena costs less and can still be used in a variety of recipes.

Next time you buy a bottle of balsamic vinegar look read the label. A good quality vinegar is aged at least 3 years. The main ingredient should be grape must.

What is Balsamic Glaze?

Balsamic glaze, also known as balsamic reduction, is a thick syrup made from balsamic vinegar. Balsamic glaze is produced by slowly simmering balsamic vinegar and a sweetener such as brown sugar or maple syrup to create a reduction. It can also be made without additional sweeteners.

The mixture is cooked until it reaches a thick consistency, perfect for drizzling over salads, roasted vegetables, or even vanilla ice cream.

What is Balsamic Vinaigrette?

Balsamic vinaigrette is a classic dressing made by combining balsamic vinegar with oil and other flavorful ingredients. It's a versatile dressing that can be used to enhance the taste of salads, marinades, or roasted vegetables.

Balsamic Glaze vs Balsamic Vinaigrette

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.

Balsamic glaze is often used as a finishing touch, drizzled over dishes to add a touch of sweetness and depth of flavor. On the other hand, balsamic vinaigrette is an emulsified dressing that can be used to coat salads or as a marinade for meats and vegetables.

How to Use Balsamic Glaze

Balsamic glaze is incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of delicious ways. You may want to make a large batch of homemade balsamic glaze so you cantry some of these ideas.

• Drizzle over caprese salad: Add a touch of sweetness to the classic combination of fresh tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and basil by drizzling balsamic glaze on top.

• Glaze roasted vegetables: Toss your favorite veggies in olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and roast until tender. Before serving, drizzle them with balsamic glaze for an extra burst of flavor.
• Sweeten desserts: Give your desserts a gourmet touch by drizzling balsamic glaze over fresh fruit or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
• Balsamic Glazed Chicken: Marinate chicken breasts in a mixture of balsamic glaze, olive oil, garlic, and herbs. Grill or bake until cooked through, then drizzle with additional balsamic glaze before serving.
• Grilled Peaches with Balsamic Glaze: Cut ripe peaches in half and remove the pit. Grill the peaches until they have grill marks and become tender. Drizzle a little bit of balsamic glaze and a dollop of fresh whipped cream for a delightful summer dessert.
• Strawberry Salad: flavorful salad by combining mixed greens, sliced strawberries, crumbled goat cheese, and a generous drizzle of balsamic vinaigrette.

How to Use Balsamic Vinaigrette

Balsamic vinaigrette is a staple dressing that can be used in numerous recipes. Here are a few delicious ways to incorporate it:

• Toss with salads: Create a simple green salad with your favorite toppings and drizzle balsamic vinaigrette on top.
• Marinate meats and vegetables: Use balsamic vinaigrette as a marinade for chicken, beef, or vegetables before grilling or roasting. The tangy flavor will add depth to your dishes.
• Dress up sandwiches: Instead of using store-bought dressings with unknown ingredients, spread balsamic vinaigrette on your favorite sandwiches for a tangy and refreshing twist.
• Balsamic Vinaigrette Quinoa Salad: Cook quinoa according to the package instructions and let it cool. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, diced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, and a generous drizzle of balsamic vinaigrette. Toss gently to combine and serve as a refreshing salad.
• Balsamic Vinaigrette Marinated Steak: Place your favorite cut of steak in a shallow dish and pour balsamic vinaigrette over it. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Grill or pan-sear the steak to your desired doneness, and serve with a drizzle of balsamic vinaigrette on top.

Where to Buy Balsamic Glaze

You can likely find balsamic glaze at your local grocery store or online. It is usually located in the condiment aisle or the vinegar section.

However, keep in mind that store-bought balsamic glaze may contain added sugar, xanthan gum, or artificial ingredients. Reading the labels and choosing a reputable brand can help ensure you're getting a good quality product.

Nonna Pia's Balsamic Glaze is made with just two ingredients, balsamic vinegar of Modena and granulated cane sugar.

How to Make Balsamic Glaze from Balsamic Vinegar

Try this homemade balsamic glaze recipe with these pantry staples. Here's a simple recipe:

Ingredients for Balsamic Glaze

- 1 cup of balsamic vinegar

- 1 tablespoon of maple syrup or brown sugar

Instructions

1. In a small saucepan, combine the balsamic vinegar and maple syrup or brown sugar.

2. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally.

3. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low.

4. Simmer the mixture for about 15-20 minutes or until it reduces by half. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent it from burning. The glaze will continue to thicken as it cools.

5. Remove from heat and let it cool.

6. Once completely cooled, transfer the balsamic glaze to a clean glass jar or airtight container for storage. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks.

How to Make Balsamic Vinaigrette

Ditch the store-bought salad dressing and create your own simple balsamic vinaigrette recipe following the measurements below.

Ingredients for Balsamic Vinaigrette

- ¼ cup balsamic vinegar

- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil

- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard

-¼ teaspoon garlic powder

- 1 teaspoons honey (optional)

- Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a mason jar or a small bowl, combine the balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey (if desired), salt, and pepper.

2. Whisk or shake the ingredients vigorously until well combined.

3. Slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil while continuing to whisk or shake the jar, creating an emulsion.

4. Taste and adjust the seasoning according to your preferences.

5. Transfer the balsamic vinaigrette to a bottle or jar and store it in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Learn More About Vinegar