Blueberry Basil Infused Vinegar

Blueberry-Herb Vinegar Recipe

🕒 Prep Time: 10 minutes
🕒 Total Time: 10 minutes
🍽️ Servings: 2 pints

Description:

Transform your culinary creations with this delightful Blueberry-Herb Vinegar recipe, a concoction that marries the sweetness of blueberries with the aromatic freshness of basil and chives. This vinegar adds a burst of flavor to salads, marinades, and various dishes, enhancing every bite with its fruity and herbal notes.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup fresh basil leaves
• 1 cup blueberries
• 4 cups white wine vinegar
• 1 cup fresh chives, chopped
• Chive blossoms (optional, for garnish)
• Additional blueberries (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prepare Basil:

   • Begin by stripping the basil leaves from their stalks.
   • Tear the leaves into small, manageable pieces.

2. Crush Blueberries:

   • In a nonmetallic bowl, combine the blueberries with a small amount of vinegar.
   • Using the back of a wooden spoon, gently crush the berries to release their juices.

3. Mix Ingredients:

   • Stir in the remaining white wine vinegar, along with the torn basil leaves and chopped chives. Ensure everything is evenly combined.

4. Transfer to Jar:

   • Pour the mixture into a large sterilized jar, making sure to scrape every bit of flavor into the container.

5. Seal and Shake:

   • Secure the lid tightly on the jar, then shake vigorously to blend all the flavors together.

6. Age the Vinegar:

   • Store the jar in a cool, dark place for approximately 4 weeks. This aging process allows the flavors to meld and develop fully.
   • Remember to shake the jar occasionally during this time to encourage infusion.

7. Strain and Bottle:

   • Line a funnel with a double layer of fresh cheesecloth and place it over a clean, sterilized bottle.
   • Carefully pour the flavored vinegar through the cheesecloth to strain out any solids, filling the bottles almost to the top.

8. Garnish (Optional):

   • For an elegant touch, add a fresh chive flower and a few additional blueberries to each bottle. This not only enhances the presentation but also infuses a hint of visual appeal.

9. Seal and Label:

   • Secure the caps on the bottles tightly to seal in the freshness.
   • Label each bottle with the date and contents for easy identification.

10. Ready to Enjoy:

    • Your Blueberry-Herb Vinegar is now ready to elevate your culinary creations! Incorporate it into dressings, sauces, or any recipe that could benefit from a burst of fruity, herbal goodness.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 129.8
• Fat: 0.8g
  • Saturated Fat: 0.1g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 2.3mg
• Carbohydrates: 33g
  • Fiber: 5.5g
  • Sugar: 22.6g
• Protein: 1.7g

Recipe Notes:

• This Blueberry-Herb Vinegar recipe yields approximately 2 pints, providing you with ample supply to enhance your dishes for weeks to come.
• Experiment with different herbs and fruits to customize the flavor profile according to your preferences.
• Store the finished vinegar in a cool, dark place to preserve its freshness and flavor potency.
• Share the joy of homemade flavored vinegar by gifting bottles to friends and family who appreciate gourmet delights.