Bee's Blackberry Balsamic Vinegar

Introduce

Chef :

beemarg

Bee's Blackberry Balsamic Vinegar

You can do this with any soft flesh fruit like blackberries, strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, or a combination. I use this on salads, fruits, veggies, pasta and pasta salads, sandwiches, chicken dishes, bread dipper, even drizzle over cheese or sorbet.

Ingredient

1 1/2 cup

Fresh blackberries - washed and dried

1/2 cup

Balsamic Vinegar

1 dash

salt or sugar (optional)

****you can add whatever herbs, spices, and seasonings you like. I like to leave it as is, then season whatever I'm using with for a little more versatility.

Cooking instructions

* Step 1

Place blackberries in glass or ceramic bowl and pour vinegar over berries.

* Step 2

Using the back of a large fork, smash down berries until small bits remain. (You can use whatever you have handy to squish the berries ).

* Step 3

Let sit for at least 45 minutes allowing the vinegar to break down (maturate) the blackberry flesh. The longer you let it sit the more the berries will infuse with the vinegar.

* Step 4

While it's infusing, go back periodically and smash berries against side of the bowl with back of fork to further continue the breaking down process of the berries.

* Step 5

When ready strain liquid through a fine sieve/stainer to remove seeds.

* Step 6

Mixture will be slightly thickened, use a bowl or tall glass to help push mixture through strainer. Gather mixture together and repeat straining process, pressing down firmly on glass or bowl, so you really get all the sweet blackberry pulp. Continue until a slightly dried, seedy mass remains, discard.

* Step 7

Pour the flavored vinegar into a bottle or jar with a lid (if using salt or seasoning, add now cover and shake to combine). Keep sealed and refrigerated. Yields about 1 cup.

* Step 8

**** Some seasoning suggestions

* Step 9

Mix with Italian herb blend and toss with olive oil for a fruity vinaigrette

* Step 10

Add dill, salt and pepper for veggies, chicken or fish

* Step 11

Add ground coriander, cardamon, and/or allspice or even cumin for a bit more intense flavor

* Step 12

Be creative!!! Have fun!!!! Enjoy!!!

* Step 13

NOTE*** blackberries can stain be sure to protect clothing, linens etc, you may also want to wear gloves or use a tall glass when pressing so as not to ruin your manicure ;)

Note: if there is a photo you can click to enlarge it