What does Balsamic Vinegar taste like?

[bigsister]

I just adore pickled walnuts and I imagine it might taste like the vinegar in the jar. Does it?

[mrs_overall]

No, it tastes nothing like that.
I can't describe the taste as it is totally unique - it's a bit like someone who has never tasted bread before asking you what it tastes like lol.

I use it as a salad dressing, add a drop to strawberries and if I make a beef stew I add a quarter of a bottle to it.

The only way you're gong to know is to buy some & try it!

[bigsister]

Thanks Mrs Overall - I'll go for it.

[Clanad]

You should be aware that balsamic also comes in a variety of flavors... at least here in the U.S. Raspberry balsamic makes a wonderful dessert when poured over French Vanilla or Real Bean Vanilla ice cream. We use Blackberry Balsamic in several recipes as well...
For example here's a simple recipe for Rasberry Balsamic Chicken

1 Tbsp. vegetable oil
1/2 cup chopped red onion
1/2 tsp. thyme
1/2 tsp. salt, divided
4 chicken breasts
1/3 cup raspberry preserves
2 TBS Raspberry balsamic vinegar
1/4 tsp. pepper

Heat oil in nonstick skillet over medium high heat till hot. Add onion; saute 5 minutes. Combine thyme and 1/4 tsp. salt; sprinkle over chicken. Add chicken to skillet; saute 6 minutes on each side or until done. Remove chicken from skillet; keep warm. Reduce heat to medium low. Add 1/4 tsp. salt, vinegar, and pepper, stirring constantly until well blended. Spoon sauce over chicken. Place in 350 degree F oven for 20 to 30 minutes or until meat thermometer indicate 170 degrees F for the chciken. We serve it with salad and wild rice as a side... (Some people add about 1/4 cup of Raspberry Preserves to add more sweetness)

[beanebabe]

It does depend on the quality - the cheap stuff tastes like ....... vinegar, but the more expensive stuff is syrupy and smooth and really nice. Had some in a restaurant recently with olive oil and some nice bread to dip - lovely.

[mandimoo]

basalmic is much much smoother and sweeter tnan the vingar you put on your chips, its really lovely. if you imagine sugar is like sarcens vinegar for chips, then basalmic is like honey (with a soft tang). and its quite nice to have a splash on ripe strawberries.

[Ice.Maiden]

the real balsamic vinegar tastes lovely. it has both a sharp and sweet taste, which comes from the grapes used, and the fermenting process.

[bigsister]

Oooh thanks everyone, it sounds delish! I'll definitely go and get some. My mouth's watering already. Yum.