In Praise of the New Kitchen Staple - Balsamic Vinegars

Why is every foodie and chef raving about balsamic vinegars?

Made from grape pressings that have not fermented into wine, the once unheard of (at least outside northern Italy) balsamic vinegar has become so popular such that various dishes all over the world now have more zing because of it. It’s a splendid seasoning which, when combined with other culinary musts like olive oil, enhances the flavor of fresh fish & poultry, salads, and grilled veggies like bell peppers. Chefs as well as at home aspiring cooks who love cooking for family and friends never fail to lapse into animated reverie recalling some of the most flavorsome dishes they’ve whipped up using this favorite culinary delight.

Indeed, a little of this item can go a long way. This especially holds true for one of the most favored kitchen staples of the no-fat generation – balsamic vinegar. When choosing among various brands of this culinary marvel that can enhance the simple goodness of certain foods, most consumers who buy their products at supermarkets may balk at the price. But remember, you get what you pay for, and fabulous flavor indeed costs, thankfully balsamic vinegar carries such a punch, chefs only need to use it sparingly.

There are actually many brands of balsamic vinegar. There are artificial balsamic vinegars that can be overpowering or sickly sweet, and there are authentic brands produced the traditional way (the aging takes years) and promise a superb gastronomic experience with their subtle sweetness. Most foodies and cooks recommend buying balsamic vinegar whose ingredients list does not indicate any artificial flavoring or coloring. Go for organic balsamic vinegar which can help make your favorite dishes taste heavenly. Regularly adding a few teaspoons of this condiment to foods like salads, vegetables and fish dishes give eaters important nutrients needed by the body, like iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, and manganese, not to mention antioxidants.