Maple Bourbon Glaze

Maple Bourbon Glaze is a delicious blend of maple syrup and bourbon, resulting in a tasty combination of sweet and smoky notes in a glaze that you can use on any of your favorite smoked meats and veggies.

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Maple Bourbon Glaze is a sweet and savory sauce made by combining maple syrup and bourbon with just a few other ingredients. The primary sweetener is maple syrup, which lends its rich and distinct flavor. The addition of bourbon adds a unique smokiness and depth to the glaze which creates a tasty balance.

The glaze is typically used as a finishing sauce brushed over grilled or roasted meats, such as pork, chicken, or salmon, during the final moments of cooking. It then caramelizes beautifully, forming a glossy and flavorful coating. It can also be drizzled over roasted vegetables which makes them very delicious.

Ingredients Needed

• Maple Syrup – Use a high-quality maple syrup that you enjoy on its own because this is the main star of the show.
• Bourbon – You can use your favorite brand of Bourbon. I use Bulleit Bourbon.
• Butter – Salted butter is a great addition as it adds a bit of seasoning without the harshness of adding salt.
• Brown Sugar – Brown sugar contributes a caramel-like sweetness and helps thicken the glaze.
• Apple Cider Vinegar – This is the acidic element of the glaze that balances out the sweetness.

How To Choose Bourbon For Cooking

When choosing a bourbon for cooking, there are a few things to consider:

1. Flavor profile: Look for a bourbon with a flavor profile that complements the dish you’re making. For example, if you’re making a sweet dessert, you may want a bourbon with notes of vanilla and caramel. If you’re making a savory dish, a bourbon with a spicy or smoky flavor can add depth.
2. Price: While you don’t necessarily need to use a top-shelf bourbon for cooking, it’s also important not to use something too cheap that may have a harsh or unpleasant flavor. Look for a bourbon that is reasonably priced and has a good reputation.
3. Alcohol content: Bourbon with a higher alcohol content will have a stronger flavor, so keep this in mind when choosing a bourbon for cooking.
4. Personal preference: Ultimately, the choice of bourbon will depend on your personal preference and the flavors you want to highlight in the dish. Experiment with different bourbons to find the one that works best for you.

When cooking with bourbon, remember that the alcohol will cook off, leaving behind the flavor. However, if you’re concerned about the alcohol content, you can always substitute with bourbon-flavored extract, a non-alcoholic bourbon alternative, or apple juice.

How Long Does It Take To Make Maple Bourbon Glaze?

The time required to make Maple Bourbon Glaze is relatively short and should take around 20-30 minutes from start to finish, including prep time.

Once it is ready, you can use it straight away, or store it for later use. It can be useful to make a big batch, and then have it ready for when you need it.

How to Make Maple Bourbon Glaze

Combine all of the ingredients in a saucepan over medium heat and bring to a light boil.

Reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 20-30 minutes, until the glaze becomes syrupy. Keep an eye on it toward the end of the cooking time. If you boil it too long it will become caramel.

Use immediately or allow to cool before storing in an air-tight container in the refrigerator for later use. It will last about 2 weeks in the refrigerator.

How to Use Maple Bourbon Glaze

Maple Bourbon Glaze is a delightful combination of sweetness and richness, offering a deep flavor that can enhance a wide variety of dishes. Try it on these smoked salmon burnt ends or over these smoked peaches. Here are some delicious ways to use it:

1. Meat Glaze: It can be brushed on meats such as pork, chicken, beef, or salmon before grilling, baking, or roasting. The glaze caramelizes on the surface, giving it a delicious crust.
2. Vegetables: Toss it with roasted vegetables such as carrots, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes to create a flavorful side dish.
3. Pancakes or Waffles: Drizzle it over your morning pancakes or waffles instead of regular maple syrup for a gourmet twist.
4. Desserts: Use it as a topping on desserts like smoked peaches, bread pudding, apple crisp, or over a scoop of vanilla ice cream (see picture below).
5. Appetizers: You can use it as a dipping sauce for appetizers like chicken wings or meatballs, giving them an exciting and unique flavor.
6. Burgers or Sandwiches: Add a touch of Maple Bourbon Glaze to your burgers or sandwiches to add a special richness that compliments the savory flavors.
7. In Cocktails: Mix a little into a cocktail that complements the bourbon and maple flavors, like an Old Fashioned or a Whiskey Sour.
8. Salad Dressing: Whisk it with some olive oil, vinegar, salt, and pepper to create a unique salad dressing.
9. As a Marinade: Combine it with some additional ingredients like soy sauce, garlic, and herbs to make a delicious marinade for meats or tofu.

How to Store

Maple Bourbon Glaze can typically last in the fridge for about 2 weeks when stored properly. However, always use your judgment and senses to assess its freshness before use. Always store the glaze in an airtight container in the refrigerator as soon as it cools down to room temperature.

Additional Helpful Tips

• Keep the heat on medium to avoid boiling the glaze too rapidly.
• If the glaze becomes too thick, you can add a small amount of water or bourbon to thin it out.
• If you prefer a thicker glaze, simmer it for a bit longer until it reaches your desired consistency.
• Choose a smooth and mellow bourbon that complements the sweetness of the maple syrup.
• Be patient while simmering the glaze; it needs time for the flavors to meld.

Frequently Asked Questions

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