If you’re looking to add a touch of gourmet flair to your vegan dishes, a rich and luscious balsamic cream is an absolute must-have in your kitchen arsenal. This versatile condiment blends the sweet tanginess of balsamic vinegar with a smooth, syrupy texture that enhances everything from salads to roasted vegetables, grilled tofu, and even desserts.
The best part? Making this balsamic cream vegan is incredibly simple and requires just a handful of ingredients you probably already have on hand.
Unlike store-bought versions that might contain added sugars or thickeners, this homemade balsamic cream recipe is natural, healthy, and tailored to your taste preferences. Whether you want to drizzle it over a fresh spring salad or use it as a dipping sauce, this balsamic cream will quickly become your go-to vegan condiment.
Let’s dive into how you can whip up this delicious, tangy, and slightly sweet balsamic cream right at home!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This vegan balsamic cream recipe is quick, fuss-free, and requires minimal ingredients. It’s a healthier alternative to commercial balsamic glazes, free from artificial additives and refined sugars.
Plus, the concentrated flavors marry beautifully with a variety of dishes, adding depth and elegance without overpowering.
Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or simply exploring plant-based options, this balsamic cream is a fantastic way to elevate your meals. It’s perfect for drizzling, dipping, or even garnishing, making it a versatile staple.
Also, it keeps well in the fridge, so you can prepare it in advance and enjoy it whenever inspiration strikes!
Ingredients
- 1 cup balsamic vinegar (choose a good quality for best flavor)
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup or agave nectar (for natural sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch or arrowroot powder (optional, for thicker consistency)
- 2 tablespoons water (to dissolve cornstarch, if using)
- Pinch of salt
Equipment
- Small saucepan
- Whisk or spoon for stirring
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Heatproof bowl or jar for storing
- Fine mesh strainer (optional, for extra smooth texture)
Instructions
- Pour the balsamic vinegar into a small saucepan and place it over medium heat.
- Add the maple syrup to the vinegar and stir gently to combine. This adds a lovely sweetness that balances the tanginess.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the liquid has reduced by half or it thickens to a syrupy consistency.
- If you prefer a thicker balsamic cream, mix the cornstarch or arrowroot powder with 2 tablespoons of water in a small bowl until smooth.
- Slowly whisk the cornstarch slurry into the simmering balsamic mixture. Stir continuously and cook for another 2-3 minutes until thickened further.
- Remove from heat, add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors, and stir to combine.
- Allow the balsamic cream to cool to room temperature. It will thicken a little more as it cools.
- For an ultra-smooth finish, strain the balsamic cream through a fine mesh sieve before transferring it to a jar.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Reheat gently before using if it becomes too thick.
Tips & Variations
“For a more complex flavor, try adding a sprig of fresh rosemary or a clove of garlic to the vinegar as it simmers, then remove before bottling.”
- Sweetness adjustment: Feel free to adjust the maple syrup quantity depending on how sweet you like your balsamic cream.
- Thickening options: If you want a glaze-like consistency without cornstarch, simply simmer longer to reduce further, but watch carefully to avoid burning.
- Flavored balsamic cream: Infuse your balsamic cream with herbs like thyme, basil, or a pinch of chili flakes for a spicy kick.
- Substitute sweeteners: Coconut sugar or brown sugar can be used instead of maple syrup for a different taste profile.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount per 2 tbsp |
|---|---|
| Calories | 40 |
| Carbohydrates | 9g |
| Sugars | 7g |
| Fat | 0g |
| Protein | 0g |
| Sodium | 15mg |
Serving Suggestions
This vegan balsamic cream is incredibly versatile. Drizzle it over fresh greens with toasted nuts and seeds for a vibrant salad dressing.
Use it as a finishing touch on roasted Brussels sprouts or grilled asparagus for a sweet and tangy boost.
It also pairs beautifully with vegan cheeses or as a dip for crusty bread. For a fun dessert twist, drizzle it over fresh strawberries, vegan vanilla ice cream, or even a warm slice of Grandma’S Old Fashioned Bread Pudding With Vanilla Sauce Recipe.
Conclusion
Making your own vegan balsamic cream is both rewarding and simple. With just a few wholesome ingredients, you can create a flavorful, glossy glaze that lifts everyday dishes to new heights.
This recipe is adaptable, so you can tailor the sweetness and thickness to suit your needs, making it a versatile staple for your vegan kitchen.
Embrace the rich tang and subtle sweetness of balsamic cream to add sophistication to salads, roasted veggies, and even desserts. Try it alongside other vegan favorites like the Kodiak Banana Muffins Recipe for a delightful balance of flavors.
Whip up a batch today and discover how this simple condiment can transform your meals into something truly special!
📖 Recipe Card: Balsamic Cream Recipe Vegan
Description: A rich and tangy vegan balsamic cream perfect for drizzling over salads, roasted vegetables, or desserts. Made with simple ingredients, it's easy to prepare and adds a gourmet touch to any dish.
Prep Time: PT5M
Cook Time: PT15M
Total Time: PT20M
Servings: 1 cup
Ingredients
- 1 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Combine balsamic vinegar and maple syrup in a small saucepan.
- Heat over medium heat until it starts to simmer.
- Mix cornstarch and water to create a slurry.
- Slowly whisk slurry into the simmering vinegar mixture.
- Add soy sauce, olive oil, and salt, then stir well.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes until thickened to a creamy consistency.
- Remove from heat and let cool before using.
Nutrition: Calories: 60 | Protein: 0.2g | Fat: 1g | Carbs: 13g
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