Easy Balsamic Jelly

FOR GRILLED DISHES

This simple yet elegant condiment brings a touch of sophistication to your culinary creations. Made with just a few ingredients, including balsamic vinegar, gelatin, sugar, and honey, this jelly boasts a delightful balance of sweet and tangy flavors. The process involves softening gelatin in balsamic vinegar, then combining it with sugar and honey, resulting in a luscious and versatile jelly.

The Easy Balsamic Jelly’s texture is firm yet yielding, making it perfect for slicing into cubes or other shapes. Once refrigerated and set, the jelly can be readily used or stored for up to a week. Its compatibility with a range of dishes, especially grilled lamb, venison, or rabbit, enhances the overall dining experience.

MAKES: ABOUT 1½ CUPS

INGREDIENTS:

• 1¼ cups inexpensive balsamic vinegar or strawberry or raspberry balsamic vinegar
• 2 teaspoons unflavored gelatin
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 3 tablespoons mild-flavored honey

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Pour and Soften Gelatin: Pour the vinegar into a saucepan and sprinkle the gelatin over it. Let the mixture stand briefly until the gelatin softens, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in Sugar and Heat: Stir in the sugar and warm the mixture over medium heat until steamy but short of boiling. Remove from the heat and mix in the honey, stirring until melted. Pour the mixture into a loaf pan or other dish of similar size.
3. Refrigerate and Serve: Refrigerate for several hours, until set. The jelly is ready to use, or it can be kept refrigerated for up to a week. Slice it into cubes or other shapes and serve with grilled lamb, venison, or rabbit.

SPICING TIP:

• Whenever the recipe calls for inexpensive balsamic vinegar, it signifies that the recipe doesn’t require a high-priced, aged vinegar. While the famed Aceto Balsamico Tradizionale is exceptional, opt for balsamic vinegar with grape “must” as the primary ingredient and minimal additives. While your vinegar doesn’t need to be tradizionale, avoiding added caramel color and unnecessary components is recommended.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS:

• Grilled Meats: Slice the set balsamic jelly into cubes or shapes and serve it as a drizzle or garnish for grilled meats such as lamb, venison, rabbit, or even chicken. The sweet and tangy profile of the jelly complements the smoky flavors of the grill.
• Charcuterie Board: Incorporate the balsamic jelly into a charcuterie spread for a sophisticated touch. Its rich color and bold taste add complexity to cured meats, cheeses, and crackers.
• Glazes: Warm the jelly slightly to create a glaze for roasted meats. Brush it over roasted chicken, pork tenderloin, or turkey during the last few minutes of cooking for a glossy finish and intensified flavor.
• Sandwiches and Burgers: Spread the jelly on sandwiches and burgers to elevate their flavor. It adds a unique sweet-and-tangy element that contrasts well with savory fillings.
• Salad Dressing: Mix a spoonful of balsamic jelly into vinaigrettes to add depth to salads. Its rich flavor pairs beautifully with fresh greens, nuts, and cheese.
• Appetizers: Create bite-sized appetizers by topping crostini with a smear of balsamic jelly, goat cheese, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs. This combination balances flavors and textures.
• Desserts: For a surprising twist, use the balsamic jelly as a topping for desserts like vanilla ice cream or panna cotta. Its tangy sweetness provides a delightful contrast.
• Marinades: Incorporate the jelly into marinades for meats like chicken or pork before grilling or roasting. It imparts a distinctive flavor and caramelized glaze.

VARIATIONS:

• While the Easy Balsamic Jelly is delightful on its own, you can explore variations to tailor the flavor profile to your preferences or the dish you’re serving. Here are a couple of creative twists to consider:

1. Fruit-Infused Twist: Infuse the jelly with your favorite fruit essence to complement the tangy balsamic flavor. Consider adding a splash of raspberry or strawberry puree during the gelatin-softening step. This variation introduces a subtle fruitiness that pairs exceptionally well with game meats like venison or rabbit.
2. Herb-Infused Jelly: Elevate the jelly’s complexity by infusing it with fresh herbs. Before adding the gelatin, gently heat the balsamic vinegar with sprigs of herbs like rosemary or thyme. Allow the herbs to steep in the vinegar, then strain it before proceeding with the recipe. This herb-infused version adds aromatic depth that can enhance roasted or grilled meats.