FOR GRILLED DISHES
Sherry vinegar is aged Spanish vinegar made from—obviously—sherry. The vinegar is dark and potent but also smooth and rounded, with a hint of sweetness. Any store that sells quality vinegars and oils should stock it.
The Sherry Vinegar Basting Liquid is a versatile and flavorful addition to your grilling arsenal, specifically tailored to elevate the taste of grilled vegetables. The combination of sherry vinegar, water or stock, olive oil, and optional seasonings creates a delightful baste that adds depth and complexity to the natural flavors of the vegetables.
Sherry vinegar brings a tangy and slightly sweet note to the basting liquid, balancing the richness of olive oil. The addition of water or stock helps to thin out the mixture and evenly distribute the flavors during the grilling process, ensuring that every bite of your grilled vegetables is infused with the delicious baste.
If you opt for the compatible dry rub or seasoning paste, it imparts an extra layer of taste that complements the vegetables’ natural profile. On the other hand, using kosher salt or coarse sea salt adds a straightforward seasoning that brings out the best in the veggies without overpowering their inherent flavors.
The basting process itself is simple yet effective. Applying the liquid twice, once at the start and again toward the end of grilling, ensures that the vegetables absorb the flavors and stay moist throughout the cooking process. The warm, savory aroma of the baste infuses the air as the vegetables cook, promising a mouthwatering outcome.
A fantastic advantage of this baste is its versatility. It can be used on a variety of vegetables, from bell peppers to zucchinis, allowing you to experiment with different combinations and textures. Furthermore, any leftover basting liquid can be stored in the refrigerator for future use, making it a convenient and flavorful addition to your culinary repertoire. Whether you’re grilling up a side dish or creating a main course centered around vegetables, the Sherry Vinegar Basting Liquid is a reliable companion that transforms simple vegetables into a memorable culinary experience.
MAKES: ABOUT ¾ CUP
INGREDIENTS:
- ⅓ cup sherry vinegar
- ⅓ cup water, vegetable stock, or chicken stock
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons compatible dry rub or seasoning paste, optional, or 1 teaspoon kosher salt or coarse sea salt
INSTRUCTIONS:
- Warm all of the ingredients in a small saucepan. Keep warm and baste on vegetables twice, once at the beginning and again near the end of the grilling process.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated in a covered container and kept for up to a week. Reheat the baste before using it again.
VARIATIONS:
- Herb Infusion: Add a handful of fresh chopped herbs like thyme, rosemary, or basil to the basting liquid while warming it. This will infuse the liquid with a fragrant herbal essence that pairs wonderfully with grilled vegetables.
- Citrus Zest: Incorporate the zest of a lemon, lime, or orange into the basting liquid for a bright and citrusy flavor. This adds a refreshing twist to the overall taste.
- Honey or Maple Syrup: For a touch of sweetness, stir in a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup to balance the acidity of the sherry vinegar and enhance the caramelization of the grilled vegetables.
- Spice Kick: If you’re fond of a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the basting liquid. This will give your grilled vegetables a delightful spicy kick.
- Soy and Ginger Twist: Introduce Asian-inspired flavors by including a tablespoon of soy sauce and some grated fresh ginger to the basting liquid. This creates a harmonious umami profile that works particularly well with grilled mushrooms and other earthy vegetables.
- Balsamic Drizzle: Swap out the sherry vinegar for balsamic vinegar to create a rich and tangy basting liquid. This variation adds a distinct sweetness and complexity to the vegetables.
- Garlic Infusion: Simmer a few cloves of smashed garlic in the basting liquid to infuse it with a mellow garlic flavor. This is perfect for those who love the taste of roasted garlic.
- Fresh Fruit Twist: Puree a small amount of fresh fruit, such as berries or stone fruit, and mix it into the basting liquid. This adds a burst of fruity sweetness and a vibrant color.
