This simple recipe for Balsamic Cherries is because cherries are at their peak right now. Where I live, in the Okanagan Valley of BC, Canada we are all about the tree fruit, all summer long. We don't have a cherry tree anymore, but many neighbours do, and are willing to share as long as we pick, so we did.
We love to eat fresh local cherries just as they are. But I really wanted to come up with a savoury way to use some of these beauties. While they are still in season. These balsamic cherries take just a couple of minutes to put together, once you have pitted all the cherries.
Handy Tool: A Cherry Pitter
Living where I do, I own a cherry pitter, which makes this tedious chore a breeze. You can use one of those little handheld pitters, which can still be tedious, but if you live where you have access to a lot of cherries, it's worthwhile to invest in a tabletop one. They are pretty inexpensive, and I thank myself for buying one every time I use it. It really does make short work of pitting cherries, and leaves you with whole, pitted cherries. (And unstained nails)
Fresh Cherries
How To Enjoy Balsamic Cherries
Balsamic cherries are amazing on baked brie, with goat cheese on crackers, or, pop one or two into a cocktail, or a topping for grilled salmon, chicken or pork. I'm thinking they will be lovely on vanilla ice cream or panna cotta, and I'm using it on this Pizza, with Balsamic Cherry, Prosciutto and Feta.
And then...once all the cherries are gone, you will have a fantastic cherry balsamic vinegar to be used in a salad dressing or marinade, right? All of which makes this recipe so versatile, in spite of its simplicity.
I didn't add any sugar to this recipe, because the cherries were really sweet. I also didn't process my jars, but you can if you want a bigger batch to have in the cupboard. (These would be so good in the winter over the holidays for all kinds of appetizers, and for gift-giving, too).
Want some more cherry goodness? Try Cherry Amaretto Ice Cream, Cherry Walnut Couscous Salad or Balsamic Cherry, Feta & Prosciutto Pizza
These will keep in the fridge for at least a few weeks. Makes two 1 pint (16 oz) jars
Balsamic Cherries
Ingredients
- 2 pounds fresh ripe cherries pits and stems removed
- 2 cups good quality balsamic vinegar
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme
- 12 black peppercorns
Instructions
- Divide cherries between two 1 pint clean, dry canning jars.
- To each jar, add a sprig of thyme and 6 peppercorns.
- Put balsamic vinegar into a saucepan over medium-high until boiling.
- Remove from heat and divide the hot vinegar between the two jars of cherries. The vinegar should cover the cherries, but if not, add some more vinegar to the pot and simmer until you have enough. Seal jars, allow to cool and then refrigerate for 2-3 days before using.
Notes
Nutrition
What a delightfully simple but delicious sounding recipe! I pinned it earlier this week and am definitely going to give it a go once the cherries start popping up here in Alberta. Thanks for the innovative twist on classic cherries, Colleen!
Justine, thank you so much!
I love sweet cherries (though I might like sour cherries even more), but I don't cook with them all that often simply because they lack a certain depth in most desserts. But with the added balsamic and all the herbs, I bet these are wonderfully balanced and an amazing addition to all kinds of dishes, both sweet and savoury! Very lovely.
Thank you Sean! I agree with you on cherries in deserts, but these ones pack a little more punch, for sure.
Literally just came back from picking cherries at my parents'. This sounds like such a delicious idea. I can't wait to try it with the fresh cherries now!
Good timing Lu Ann! It's always good to have another cherry recipe at this time of year 🙂
Loved these on your pizza recipe... I'm thinking there is a great cocktail recipe out there just waiting for these balsamic cherries as a garnish!!
Thanks Meaghan! Foodie minds think alike; was thinking exactly the same cocktail thought. 🙂
Great idea! It would be definitely be a nice addition to a cheese board. Or even a grown-up ice cream sunday.
I agree Christina, these cherries are super versatile. Great suggestions!
So simple! So good! Live the idea of adding them to pizza!
Thanks Elaine! I'm always looking for ways to use cherries at this time of year. Simplicity is always wonderful 🙂
You know it's summer when there is an abundance of beautiful cherries. I've been looking to do something with them and this looks fantastic. I can already taste the cherries withe the balsamic - yum! Definitely putting this on my to-do list (to-do NOW list before cherries disappear!)
Thanks Jolina! I know, they come and go so fast, right?!