How to Use Balsamic Glaze (Balsamic Reduction)
Balsamic Glaze is super versatile and can be used to add an extra dose of flavor to everything from veggies to meats, to pizzas. As a bonus, a drizzle of balsamic glaze simply makes your food look prettier. Seriously, check out this BLT Pizza I made the other night….doesn’t the balsamic glaze make it look so pretty?!
What is the difference between Balsamic Glaze and Balsamic Reduction?
The short answer is “nothing”. I use the exact same product (balsamic vinegar that has been reduced by about half) regardless of whether the recipe calls for balsamic glaze or balsamic reduction.
Ideas on What to Do With Balsamic Glaze
- Drizzle it over tomatoes, basil, and fresh mozzarella cheese for a quick salad or appetizer
- Drizzle over roasted vegetables or crispy greens
- Use balsamic reduction to add flavor beef, chicken or fish
- Drizzle over pizza to give it an extra kick of flavor.
- Spoon over ice cream or grilled fruit
How to Make Balsamic Glaze (Balsamic Reduction)
There are several balsamic glazes available on the market, so you can always just buy a bottle and keep in your fridge to have handy anytime you want to dress a recipe up. Currently, I have a bottle of Trader GIottos’ Glaze from Trader Joe’s in my own refrigerator.
But, if you don’t have any balsamic glaze on hand or simply want to make your own, it’s about as easy peasy as it gets to whip up a batch. One cup of balsamic vinegar and about 15 minutes is all it takes.
Ingredients
- 1 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 or 2 tbsp honey if you’d like to sweeten the glaze (I usually do not add this unless I’m making a batch specifically to serve over grilled fruit or ice cream and I want a bit of extra sweetness.)
Directions
Pour the balsamic vinegar (and honey, if using) into a small saucepan and bring to a boil. Turn the heat down to low and simmer for about 12-15 minutes, until the sauce thickens. When it starts to stick to the back of a wooden spoon, you’ve reached perfection!

Balsamic Glaze (Balsamic Reduction)
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Cook Time: 15
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Total Time: 15
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Yield: 1/2 Cup 1x
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Category: Condiment
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Method: Stovetop
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Cuisine: Italian
Description
Easy glaze to add flavor and extra visual appeal to everything from vegetables to meat to even desserts.
Ingredients
- 1 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 or 2 tbsp honey if you’d like to sweeten the glaze (I usually do not add this unless I’m making a batch specifically to serve over grilled fruit or ice cream and I want a bit of extra sweetness.)
Instructions
- Pour the balsamic vinegar (and honey, if using) into a small saucepan and bring to a boil.
- Turn the heat down to low and simmer for about 12-15 minutes, until the sauce thickens. When it starts to stick to the back of a wooden spoon, you’ve reached perfection
Keywords: Balsamic Glaze Balsamic Reduction
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