$3 vs $150 Balsamic Vinegar...explained

Summary

This video provides a deep dive into the complex world of balsamic vinegar. It explains what makes authentic balsamic so expensive - the lengthy, meticulous aging process required. It then details the key differences between real balsamic and the varieties commonly found in stores, categorizing them into four types based on ingredients, aging, density and price. Several taste tests showcase noticeable variation between categories when used on steak, salad, and ice cream. Finally, a buying guide recommends selecting a quality condiment-grade bottle for its balance of flavor, versatility and value.

Takeaways

• 😊 Real balsamic vinegar is very expensive due to its long aging process in wooden barrels
• 🍷 Authentic balsamic vinegar is made from 100% grape must with no other added ingredients
• 🛍 There are 4 main types of balsamic vinegar: traditional, condiment grade, vinegar-based, and reductions/glazes
• 🥣 Traditional balsamic has a complex sweet, sour and umami flavor profile
• 🌶 Cheaper balsamic vinegars taste more sour while traditional balsamic is balanced
• 🍽 Traditional balsamic is versatile - it can be used on sweet and savory foods
• 👃 Aroma is a key difference between traditional and other balsamic vinegars
• 🥗 Condiment grade balsamic offers the best value for everyday cooking
• 🧁 Balsamic vinegar can make vanilla ice cream taste like sour maple syrup
• ❌ Don't waste expensive traditional balsamic by adding it to seltzer water

Q & A

What are the key differences between traditional balsamic vinegar and other types typically found in grocery stores?

Traditional balsamic vinegar is made from 100% cooked grape must, is aged for 12+ years, and has a complex sweet, sour, and umami flavor profile. Other types usually contain added ingredients like wine vinegar, have little to no aging, and lack the depth of flavor and aroma.

Why is traditional balsamic vinegar so expensive compared to other varieties?

The long aging process of 12+ years in wooden barrels, the reduction of liquid over time, and the rigorous tasting requirements all contribute to the high cost of production of traditional balsamic vinegar.

What are the four main categories of balsamic vinegar found in stores?

The four categories are: 1) Traditional 2) Condiment grade 3) Vinegar-based 4) Reductions and glazes

How do you make a cheap balsamic taste more like traditional balsamic vinegar?

You can make a homemade reduction with balsamic vinegar, sugar, and port wine. Cook it down to reduce the liquid and add sweetness and complexity.

What balsamic vinegar is best for using on salads?

The video recommends vinegar-based balsamics for salads because the sourness contrasts well with bitter salad greens. The aroma differences between the balsamics get lost with greens.

What happens if you use the wrong balsamic on ice cream?

Using a thin, vinegar-based balsamic on ice cream makes it taste extremely sour and unpleasant. You need a thicker condiment grade or traditional balsamic to balance the sweetness.

Does mixing balsamic vinegar with soda water actually taste like Coke?

No, the video shows that mixing any type of balsamic vinegar with soda water results in an unpleasantly sour drink. It does not replicate the taste of Coke or other sweet sodas.

What shape bottle indicates a traditional balsamic vinegar from Modena?

An authentic traditional balsamic vinegar from Modena comes in a 100ml tear-drop shaped bottle, designed specifically to guarantee authenticity.

Why does the video recommend buying a condiment grade balsamic vinegar for home use?

A condiment grade balsamic provides the best value, with some sweetness, acidity, and aged wood notes at a much lower price point than the traditional options. It's the most versatile.

How can you adjust a homemade balsamic reduction to get it even closer in flavor to traditional balsamic?

Tips include: using a higher quality condiment balsamic as the base, adjusting the vinegar/sugar/port ratios, reducing the liquid further, and adding MSG for umami kick.