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Flavorful Tart Cherry Balsamic Reduction Sauce Recipe for Perfect Grilled Meats

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A quick and easy tart cherry balsamic reduction sauce that adds a sweet-tart burst of flavor to grilled meats, perfect for elevating weeknight dinners or barbecue gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup fresh or frozen tart cherries, pitted
  • 1/2 cup good-quality balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 small shallot, finely minced
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves, chopped (optional)
  • Pinch of salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

Instructions

  1. Finely mince the shallot and garlic. If using frozen cherries, thaw and drain them to reduce extra moisture.
  2. Heat a small saucepan over medium heat and add a small splash of olive oil or a bit of butter. Add the shallot and garlic and sauté gently until translucent and fragrant, about 2 minutes. Avoid browning.
  3. Stir in the tart cherries, balsamic vinegar, honey, and water. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for about 10 minutes until cherries soften and vinegar mellows.
  4. Simmer uncovered, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens to a syrupy consistency that coats the back of a spoon, about 10 to 15 minutes. Add a splash of water if it reduces too fast or looks like burning.
  5. Stir in chopped thyme, a pinch of salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Taste and adjust sweetness or acidity with more honey or vinegar if needed.
  6. Optional: Strain the sauce through a fine mesh strainer for a smooth texture. Return to pan and whisk in the tablespoon of butter off the heat for a glossy finish.
  7. Serve warm over grilled meats such as pork chops, chicken breasts, or steak. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days.

Notes

Use frozen cherries if fresh are unavailable; thaw and drain excess liquid. For a vegan version, replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar and omit butter. Stir regularly to prevent burning. Sauce can be strained for smoothness or left chunky for texture. Store in refrigerator up to 7 days and reheat gently with a splash of water if thickened.

Nutrition

Keywords: tart cherry sauce, balsamic reduction, grilled meat sauce, barbecue sauce, cherry balsamic glaze, easy sauce recipe, grilling sauce

Find it online: https://tastypierecipes.com/flavorful-tart-cherry-balsamic-reduction-sauce-recipe-for-perfect-grilled-meats/