Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Savory Balsamic Glaze with Honey and Ginger?
It is an exquisite dressing inspired by La Casa Sena Restaurant that strikes a balance between sweet and tangy flavors with warm notes of ginger and garlic.
What is the origin of this recipe?
This recipe is inspired by the culinary style of La Casa Sena Restaurant located in Santa Fe, NM.
What are the main flavor profiles of this glaze?
The glaze features a harmony of sweet honey, tangy balsamic vinegar, warm fresh ginger, and a hint of garlic.
How many ingredients are required for this recipe?
There are 6 total ingredients used in this recipe.
What type of vinegar should I use?
The recipe specifically calls for balsamic vinegar.
Is there any fruit or vegetable in this glaze?
Yes, the recipe includes one chopped plum tomato which is simmered with the other ingredients.
How do I prepare the ginger for this glaze?
The fresh ginger should be peeled and then minced before being added to the saucepan.
What kind of saucepan is recommended?
You should use a small, heavy-bottomed nonreactive saucepan to ensure even cooking and prevent reactions with the vinegar.
What is the recommended cooking heat?
The mixture should be brought to a gentle simmer over moderate heat.
How long does it take to cook the glaze?
The mixture needs to cook for approximately 12 minutes until it becomes syrupy.
How much glaze does this recipe produce?
The recipe reduces the ingredients down to approximately 1/4 cup of glaze.
Do I need to stir the glaze while it cooks?
Yes, you should stir the mixture occasionally while it is simmering.
How do I know when the glaze is ready?
The glaze is ready when it has reached a syrupy consistency and has reduced to about 1/4 cup.
Should the glaze be used hot?
No, you should remove it from the heat and let the dressing cool to room temperature before using.
What type of salad is best for this glaze?
It is highly recommended for elevating simple mesclun salads.
How should leftovers be stored?
Store the glaze in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
How long will the glaze last in the fridge?
The glaze will stay fresh for up to a week when properly stored in the refrigerator.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this recipe is tagged as vegetarian.
Is this glaze gluten-free?
Yes, the recipe is gluten-free.
Is this recipe considered easy to make?
Yes, it is described as an easy dressing that can be made quickly for any occasion.
What kind of tomato is best for this recipe?
A plum tomato is recommended for its flavor and texture in the reduction.
Can I use bottled ginger instead of fresh?
The recipe specifies fresh ginger for its warm notes, which provides the best flavor for this gourmet dressing.
Does the recipe use honey?
Yes, one tablespoon of honey is used to provide the sweet component of the glaze.
How much garlic is used?
The recipe calls for 1 teaspoon of minced garlic.
What is the final texture of the dressing?
The final product is a thick, syrupy glaze.
Why is a nonreactive saucepan important?
Nonreactive pans (like stainless steel) prevent the acid in the balsamic vinegar from reacting with the metal, which could affect the flavor.
Can this glaze be used for more than just salad?
Yes, while designed for salads, it can add a gourmet flair to various dishes as a versatile glaze.
What does 'minced' mean in this recipe?
Minced means to chop the garlic and ginger into very small, fine pieces.
Is the tomato strained out?
The instructions do not specify straining; the chopped plum tomato is part of the mixture that reduces into the syrupy glaze.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, you can easily double the ingredients to make a larger batch of this gourmet dressing.