Basil Garlic Vinegar

Basil Garlic Vinegar Recipe from Italy

Region / culture: Italy | Preparation time: 5 minutes | Cooking time: 1 month | Servings: This recipe yields approximately 16 servings, assuming a serving size of one tablespoon.

Introduction

Basil Garlic Vinegar is a simple yet flavorful condiment that can elevate the taste of various dishes. This recipe combines the aromatic freshness of basil with the pungent kick of garlic, infused into white vinegar. It's a versatile ingredient that can be used in dressings, marinades, or sauces, adding a burst of flavor to salads, meats, and vegetables. The addition of lemon balm, though optional, introduces a subtle citrus note that complements the basil and garlic beautifully.

History

The practice of infusing vinegar with herbs and other flavorings has a long history, dating back to ancient civilizations. The Romans were known to flavor their vinegar with various herbs, using it both as a culinary ingredient and a medicinal remedy. Basil and garlic have been staple ingredients in Mediterranean and Asian cuisines for centuries, prized for their flavors as well as their health benefits. The combination of these ingredients in vinegar is a relatively modern culinary innovation, reflecting a growing interest in flavored vinegars as part of the broader farm-to-table and artisanal food movements.

Ingredients

1 cup of wine or white vinegar
1 cup of fresh basil
2 cloves of garlic, peeled
optional: a sprig or two of lemon verbena or lemon balm

How to prepare

Rinse and dry the basil thoroughly.
Place the herbs in a quart jar.
Pour in the vinegar and cap it.
Allow it to sit for about a month before using, occasionally shaking it.
Then remove the herbs and label the jar.
Use it for dressing, marinades, or sauces.

Variations

For a sweeter version, add a tablespoon of honey or sugar to the vinegar. For a spicier kick, include a few chili flakes or a small hot pepper to the infusion. Experiment with different herbs, such as rosemary or thyme, to create your unique blend.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

For the best flavor, use fresh, high-quality ingredients. Fresh basil should be vibrant and green, without any dark spots or wilting. When selecting garlic, choose firm, plump cloves. The quality of the vinegar is also crucial; opt for a good white vinegar for a clean, sharp taste. Ensure the basil and garlic are thoroughly dried after rinsing to prevent dilution of the vinegar. For a more intense flavor, slightly crush the garlic cloves before adding them to the jar.

Serving Suggestions

Basil Garlic Vinegar can be used in a variety of ways. It makes an excellent dressing for fresh green salads or a marinade for chicken, fish, or vegetables. Try drizzling it over roasted potatoes or mixing it into mayonnaise for a flavorful sandwich spread.

Cooking Techniques

The key technique in this recipe is the infusion, which involves soaking the basil and garlic in vinegar to extract their flavors. This process is enhanced by allowing the mixture to sit for an extended period, typically about a month, and occasionally shaking the jar to distribute the flavors evenly.

Ingredient Substitutions

If white vinegar is not available, apple cider vinegar can be used as a substitute, offering a slightly sweeter and fruitier flavor profile. If fresh basil is out of season, dried basil can be used, though the fresh leaves are preferred for their vibrant flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

This recipe is inherently a make-ahead condiment, requiring at least a month to properly infuse. Once prepared, it can be stored and used over several months, making it a convenient flavor booster to have on hand.

Presentation Ideas

For a beautiful gift or table presentation, transfer the infused vinegar into a decorative bottle. Add a fresh sprig of basil and a whole garlic clove for visual appeal. Label the bottle with the name and date of preparation for a personal touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Basil Garlic Vinegar pairs wonderfully with Mediterranean and Italian dishes. Use it to dress a classic Caprese salad, or drizzle over grilled vegetables for an added layer of flavor. It also complements seafood dishes, such as grilled salmon or shrimp.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store the infused vinegar in a cool, dark place, such as a pantry or cupboard. It does not require refrigeration and will keep for up to a year. There is no need for reheating, as it is used at room temperature.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

One tablespoon of Basil Garlic Vinegar contains approximately 3 calories, making it an excellent choice for adding flavor to dishes without adding significant calories.

Carbohydrates

Basil Garlic Vinegar is very low in carbohydrates, with the primary source being the small amount of natural sugars found in the garlic. One tablespoon of this infused vinegar contains less than 1 gram of carbohydrates, making it an excellent condiment for those following low-carb or ketogenic diets.

Fats

This recipe contains no fats, making it a heart-healthy addition to any meal. Its absence of fats also makes it suitable for low-fat diets.

Proteins

Basil Garlic Vinegar is not a significant source of protein, containing negligible amounts. It is primarily used as a flavor enhancer rather than a protein source in meals.

Vitamins and minerals

While the vinegar itself is not a rich source of vitamins and minerals, the basil and garlic contribute small amounts of vitamin C, vitamin K, and various minerals such as calcium and iron. These nutrients, however, are present in minimal amounts due to the small serving size of the vinegar used in recipes.

Alergens

This recipe is free from common allergens such as nuts, dairy, gluten, and soy, making it suitable for individuals with food allergies or intolerances.

Summary

Basil Garlic Vinegar is a low-calorie, fat-free, and low-carbohydrate condiment that can add a burst of flavor to a variety of dishes without significantly impacting the nutritional profile of the meal.

Summary

Basil Garlic Vinegar is a versatile and flavorful condiment that can enhance a wide range of dishes. Its simple preparation and healthful properties make it a valuable addition to any kitchen. Whether used in dressings, marinades, or as a finishing touch, this infused vinegar brings a fresh and aromatic flavor to meals without adding significant calories or fats.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was filled with a sense of excitement. It was at a quaint little farmers market in the countryside, where the stalls overflowed with fresh produce and homemade goodies. As I wandered around, taking in the sights and sounds, I stumbled upon a small stand tucked away in a corner, where a sweet elderly woman was selling jars of homemade vinegars.

Intrigued, I made my way over to her stall and struck up a conversation. She told me that she had been making her own vinegars for decades, using a variety of herbs and spices to create unique and delicious flavors. I was immediately fascinated and begged her to share one of her recipes with me.

With a twinkle in her eye, she handed me a handwritten recipe for Basil Garlic Vinegar. As I read through the ingredients and instructions, I could practically taste the tangy, aromatic concoction in my mind. I thanked the kind woman profusely and hurried home to try it out for myself.

I gathered all the necessary ingredients – fresh basil, garlic cloves, white wine vinegar, and a touch of honey for sweetness. With a sense of purpose and anticipation, I set to work, chopping the basil and garlic finely and combining them in a glass jar. I poured in the vinegar and honey, sealed the jar tightly, and gave it a good shake. Then, I set it aside in a cool, dark place to infuse for a few weeks.

Every day, I would give the jar a gentle shake and inhale the heady aroma of basil and garlic mingling with the sharp tang of vinegar. I eagerly awaited the moment when I could finally taste the fruits of my labor. And when the time came, I was not disappointed.

The Basil Garlic Vinegar was a revelation. The flavors were bold and vibrant, with the sweetness of the honey balancing out the sharpness of the vinegar. It was perfect drizzled over salads, mixed into dressings, or used as a marinade for meats and vegetables. I shared it with friends and family, who all marveled at its deliciousness and begged me for the recipe.

From that moment on, Basil Garlic Vinegar became a staple in my kitchen. I would make batch after batch, experimenting with different variations and combinations of herbs and spices. Each jar was a labor of love, a tribute to the kind woman at the farmers market who had sparked my passion for homemade vinegars.

Over the years, I have collected countless recipes for vinegars from various sources – cookbooks, magazines, friends, and family members. Each one is a treasure trove of flavors and memories, a testament to the joy of creating something delicious from scratch.

But it is the Basil Garlic Vinegar that holds a special place in my heart. It was the recipe that started it all, the one that ignited my love for homemade vinegars and inspired me to explore the endless possibilities of flavor combinations. And for that, I will always be grateful to the sweet elderly woman at the farmers market who shared her recipe with me.

So whenever I make a batch of Basil Garlic Vinegar, I think of her and the day that changed everything. And as I drizzle it over a salad or use it to marinate a piece of meat, I savor not just the taste, but the memories and the stories that have been passed down through generations – a legacy of love and flavor that will endure for years to come.