Dear Kosterina Family,
What is the perfect complement to our EVOO? It might seem obvious, but if you’re still unsure, it’s Balsamic Vinegar.
It’s a classic pairing, so we had to make our own balsamic vinegar with the highest quality standards to be the perfect companion to our ultra premium extra virgin olive oil. Our Balsamic Vinegar boasts intense aromatic notes, a dense texture, and a hint of acidity that enhances the flavor of any dish. This culinary gem, beloved in kitchens worldwide, hails from Italy and has a history as rich as its taste. But what exactly is balsamic vinegar, and why is it so cherished?
The Origin of Balsamic Vinegar
Authentic balsamic vinegar originates from Modena and Reggio Emilia, regions in northern Italy known for their deep-rooted culinary traditions. The term balsamic derives from the Italian word balsamico, meaning curative or restorative, hinting at its historical use as a tonic for health. It was reputed to be a miracle cure, believed to help with everything from sore throats to labor pains and was said to be used as a disinfectant in the Middle Ages.
The earliest known reference to balsamic vinegar dates back to 1046 when a bottle was reportedly given to Emperor Enrico III of Franconia as a gift. Gifting Balsamic Vinegar (and EVOO) - what a genius idea!
Some Italians take their balsamic vinegar very seriously. An ultra premium version of balsamic known as "Aceto Balsamico Tradizionale," is fermented and aged for a minimum of 12 years in a series of wooden barrels made from different types of wood (oak, cherry, chestnut and juniper) and can sell for up to $200 per bottle. In Italy, we were served this type of balsamic via a dropper.
What’s special about our Kosterina balsamic vinegar?
You’ll see when you taste it! Aged for 6 years in oak barrels, our balsamic vinegars develop a rich, velvety texture. The aging process allows the flavors to mature and intensify resulting in a dense, rich balsamic. We also use a high percentage of grape must to wine vinegar. Grape must is what gives balsamic vinegar its density and we use 85%+ grape must in our balsamic. It pours out thicker than you’d expect – more like a balsamic glaze or reduction – but of course without any added sugars or gums! The natural sweetness comes from the grapes themselves, providing a pure and authentic taste experience.
Health Benefits of Balsamic Vinegar
Balsamic vinegar not only delivers incredible flavor but also boasts meaningful health benefits:
- Antioxidant Properties: Balsamic vinegar is rich in antioxidants, which help fight oxidative stress and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
- Digestive Aid: The acetic acid in balsamic vinegar can improve digestion and gut health by promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria. Bonus: balsamic vinegar also has antimicrobial compounds.
- Low Calorie: Balsamic vinegar is low in calories, making it a healthy choice for flavoring dishes without adding extra calories.
- Heart Health: Some studies suggest that balsamic vinegar may help lower cholesterol levels and improve heart health due to its polyphenol content. Mix this with our high quality EVOO for the ultimate health tonic - bursting with maximum polyphenols and maximum flavor.
Culinary Uses of Balsamic Vinegar
Balsamic vinegar's versatility makes it a staple in many kitchens. We love using it to make balsamic vinaigrettes, balsamic reductions, drizzling over fresh fruits and veggies, and in just about anything that needs a zippy flavor. Here are some popular ways to use it:
- Salad Dressings: A simple drizzle of balsamic vinegar over salads or blended with EVOO can elevate the flavors of fresh greens and vegetables.
- Marinades: Use balsamic vinegar as a base for marinades to tenderize and add a tangy-sweet flavor to meats and vegetables.
- Glazes and Reductions: Reduce balsamic vinegar to create a thick, syrupy glaze perfect for drizzling over roasted vegetables, grilled meats, or even desserts like strawberries and ice cream. Side Note: our balsamic vinegar is already pretty thick and makes the perfect drizzle!
- Sauces: Incorporate balsamic vinegar into sauces for a depth of flavor that enhances both savory and sweet dishes.
- Drinks: You may remember last year’s viral TikToks where America attempted to create a Coke with seltzer and balsamic vinegar. We actually recommend using our Crushed Fruit Vinegars for mixing drinks (not our balsamics).
Check out some of our favorite recipes using balsamic vinegar:
Sheet Pan Roasted Balsamic Veggies
Melon with Prosciutto and Balsamic Glaze
Next time you reach for that dark, delicious bottle, you'll know the rich history and craftsmanship that goes into every drop. Enjoy!
Peace, Love and EVOO,
Katina and The Kosterina Team
