Balsamic Pearls

How to Make Balsamic Pearls (Vegan Caviar)

1.  Chill the Oil
   Pour your preferred oil into a tall glass or jar and place it in the freezer. You want it very cold (but not frozen), so the balsamic mixture forms into pearls on contact. (30mins to 60mins)

2. Prepare the Balsamic Base
   In a small saucepan, combine balsamic vinegar with agar agar powder. Stir constantly and bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat. Let it simmer for 1–2 minutes, or until the agar agar is completely dissolved.

3. Let it Cool Slightly
   Remove from heat and let the mixture sit for about 2 minutes. It should still be liquid, just not piping hot.

4. Create the Pearls
   Using a dropper, syringe, or pipette, carefully drop the balsamic mixture into the chilled oil one drop at a time. The drops will instantly firm up into pearls as they fall through the oil.

5. Strain and Rinse
   Once you’ve used up the mixture, strain the oil and pearls using a fine mesh strainer. Rinse the pearls under cold water to remove any excess oil.