Spotlight Spice: Cinnamon Pear Balsamic Vinegar

It’s fall, and like every fall, apples are the fruit stealing the spotlight. Don’t get us wrong…apples are wonderful, but it’s pear season too! And we think pears are equally deserving of a little love, so we’re giving it to them in this week’s Spotlight Spice. Say hello to our Cinnamon-Pear Balsamic Vinegar!

This flavored balsamic combines the rich flavors of toasted Sri Lankan cinnamon and sweet Anjou pears, creating a wonderfully balanced vinegar which is equal parts savory and sweet. It pairs (see what we did there?!?) well with our Blood Orange Fused and Basil Infused Olive Oils and Roasted Walnut Oil to create a delicious vinaigrette for strongly-flavored greens or a marinade delicate enough for pork or chicken, but bold enough to handle lamb or duck.

We like to drizzle this balsamic over tomatoes, poached or grilled pears, and fresh strawberries and ice cream. If you’d like it a bit thicker, reduce it over medium heat on the stove until it reaches your desired consistency. We typically reduce it by 1/3 to 1/2 of the original amount we put in the saucepan. It’s great with winter veggies too. Try tossing root vegetables, pumpkin, or butternut squash in the vinegar and a bit of unflavored olive oil prior to roasting in the oven.  If you’re a baker, add a splash to your apple pie filling!

Find it at the oil and vinegar bar in the shop, or in the vinegar section of allspiceonline.com. Is this one of your favorite flavors? Share your favorite ways to use it in the comments below!