Creamy Balsamic Reduction - Figs and Lemon authentic recipe with no added sugar nor additives - 200 ml
Arugula salad with olive oil and balsamic reduction by v4vita is a Mediterranean classic. This 100% natural glaze is suitable for salads, cheese dishes and other recipes.
Why buy
Discover the taste of the Eastern Mediterranean with the V4vita balsamic reduction!
This exclusive organic product combines the sweetness of condensed white grape must, Cretan grape vinegar, juicy figs and the refreshing aroma of lemon. The result is a unique culinary experience that elevates your dishes to masterpieces.
This product is basically a natural balsamic reduction, made from quality grape must and vinegar, without any artificial additives.
The result is a rich, sweet and slightly acidic glaze that is both gourmet and healthy - unlike cheaper options with added sugars or thickeners.
Key properties
- 100% natural product: no added sugar, artificial additives or preservatives.
- Excellent taste: made only from grape must and aged vinegar.
- Traditional recipe: enriched with Cretan herbs.
- Versatile use: a great addition to salads, vegetables, meat, seafood, cheese, desserts and other dishes.
Delicious flavor harmony
The sweet figs blend perfectly with the delicate acidity of the lemon, creating an unmistakable flavour profile that impresses both when cooking and serving.
The combination of figs and lemon is well known in culinary circles, especially in Mediterranean cuisine. Figs, with their honeyed sweetness and delicate floral flavour, pair well with lemon, which adds a fresh acidity.
This combination is popular in a variety of dishes, including salads, sauces and desserts. For example, Greek fig salads with lemon dressing are a traditional delicacy.
This combination is not common in Czech cuisine, which may be the reason why many Czechs are unfamiliar with it. However, thanks to its harmonious interplay of flavours, it can be attractive to those looking for new and interesting gastronomic experiences.
Some interesting facts about lemon
Lemon is the fruit of the Citrus limon tree, which is valued for its refreshing acidity and high vitamin C content.
Its use is very wide - in culinary applications it is added to marinades, salad dressings, desserts and refreshing drinks.
In traditional medicine, it is known for its detoxifying properties and support of the immune system. Thanks to its antioxidant content, it helps neutralize free radicals and promotes skin health.
Lemon peel contains aromatic oils that are often used in perfumery and as a natural flavouring.
It adds freshness, sparkle and an unmistakable aroma to food.
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Ingredients
Concentrated white grape must*, grape vinegar*, fig* 12%, lemon* 9%.
*Products of organic farming.
How is v4vita balsamic reduction made?
Concentrated white grape must
What's that?
Grape must is the freshly pressed juice of grapes, which includes the skins, seeds and stems. In this case, white grapes are used that have been concentrated (reduced by heating) to remove water. The result is a thick, sweet and syrupy liquid.
Key components of grape must:
- Natural sugars (fructose and glucose) - provide natural sweetness.
- Acids (tartaric and malic) - give a slightly sour taste and also help with preservation.
- Polyphenols and antioxidants - natural substances with beneficial effects on health.
Purpose in the product:
- It works as a natural sweetener and provides a rich texture without the need to add sugar.
- It adds body and balance to the vinegar base.
Vinegar from Cretan grape varieties
What's that?
It is a wine vinegar made by fermenting the juice of Cretan grape varieties. The process includes:
- Fermentation of grape juice into wine.
- Further fermentation, where the alcohol is converted by bacteria into acetic acid, which gives the vinegar its characteristic sour taste.
Key ingredients of vinegar:
- Acetic acid - adds a sharp taste and acts as a preservative.
- Polyphenols - antioxidants that add depth of flavour and complexity.
- Trace minerals - for example, potassium and calcium, naturally present in grapes.
Purpose in the product:
- It provides an acidity that balances the sweetness of the grape must.
- It preserves the freshness of the glaze without the use of artificial preservatives.
How is production going?
- Thickening the grape must: the white grape must is slowly heated to evaporate the water, thus concentrating its sweetness and flavour.
- Mixing with vinegar: The concentrated must is mixed with good quality Cretan grape vinegar to achieve the perfect balance of sweetness and acidity.
- Flavouring (e.g. figs, lemon or aniseed): natural flavours are added to complement and enhance the resulting taste.
- Maturation or reduction process: the mixture can be further thickened or matured to give it a thicker consistency and a more pronounced flavour profile.
Final ingredient profile:
- Natural sugars from grapes - no need to add additional sweeteners.
- Acids (tartaric, malic and acetic) - natural preservation and flavour enhancement.
- Polyphenols and antioxidants - promote flavour complexity and have health benefits.
- Fruit extracts (fig, lemon or aniseed) - add aroma and exceptional taste.
Result?
v4vita balsamic reduction is not only a premium gourmet product, but also a natural alternative without added sugars and chemical thickeners. It is ideal for those looking for authentic taste and quality that will elevate any meal to the next level.
Traditional vs. industrial production of balsamic reduction - why does it matter?
The traditional production of balsamic reduction, often practiced in Greece, is an art passed down through generations. The basis is the use of fresh grape must and wine vinegar from local grape varieties.
The process begins with a slow boil of the grape must, which is gradually reduced to achieve the desired density and concentrated flavour.
The reduction is done without artificial additives, sugars or thickeners, ensuring purity of flavour and premium quality. The result is a product with a natural sweetness, balanced acidity and complex notes that cannot be achieved through accelerated production.
Industrial production, on the other hand, often relies on rapid processing and chemical additives to reduce costs and increase yield.
Bulk-produced balsamic glazes tend to be thickened with starches, syrups or sugars, which adds sweetness and shine but also reduces their nutritional value and authenticity. These products focus on quantity rather than quality, which is why they are cheaper but less sophisticated in taste.
Why choose a traditionally manufactured reduction?
Traditional methods preserve the natural antioxidants, polyphenols and minerals of the grapes, which contribute to a healthier product profile. In addition, the long cooking time produces a rich, balanced flavour that is not achievable in industrial production. This approach respects the ingredients and the artisanal processes, which is why the traditional balsamic reduction is considered a premium choice for gourmets.
If you are looking for a product that is not only tasty, but also authentic and healthy, the traditional balsamic reduction is the obvious choice. You avoid unnecessary sugars and chemicals and get a concentrated flavour essence that adds gourmet character to your dishes.
Nutritional values
| Per 100g/ml | Value |
|---|---|
| Energy | 380 Kcal / 1 589 kJ |
| Fats | 0 g |
| of which saturated | 0 g |
| Carbohydrates | 82 g |
| of which sugars | 71 g |
Recipes
Grilled Halloumi cheese with figs and lemon balsamic glaze
Raw materials:
- 200g Halloumi cheese
- 4 fresh figs, halved
- v4vita Balsamic glaze with figs and lemon
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Method: slice the Halloumi cheese and brush with olive oil. Heat a grill pan and fry the cheese on both sides until golden brown. Grill the figs briefly, cut side down. Arrange the cheese and figs on a plate, drizzle with balsamic glaze, garnish with mint leaves and serve immediately.
Roasted chicken breast with fig and lemon balsamic glaze
Raw materials:
- 4 chicken breasts
- v4vita Balsamic glaze with figs and lemon
- Fresh rosemary
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Method: salt, pepper and rub the chicken breasts with olive oil. Fry them on both sides in a pan, transfer to a baking dish, brush with balsamic glaze, add sprigs of rosemary and bake at 180 °C for about 20 minutes. Let rest for a while before serving.
Salad with rocket, figs and lemon balsamic glaze
Raw materials:
- 150 g arugula
- 6 fresh figs, cut into quarters
- 50 g walnuts, roasted
- 50 g feta cheese, crumbled
- v4vita Balsamic glaze with figs and lemon
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to make it: mix arugula, figs, toasted walnuts and feta cheese in a bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze, mix gently, season with salt and pepper and serve immediately.
Vanilla ice cream with roasted figs and lemon balsamic glaze
Raw materials:
- 4 scoops of vanilla ice cream
- 6 fresh figs, halved
- v4vita Balsamic glaze with figs and lemon
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Procedure. Place the figs cut side up on a baking sheet, drizzle with honey and bake for 10-15 minutes until soft. Place scoops of vanilla ice cream on a plate or in a bowl, add warm roasted figs, drizzle with balsamic glaze and garnish with mint leaves. Serve immediately.
Usage:
- Salads: adds a flavourful, aesthetic touch to fresh salads and vegetables like avocados.
- Roasted vegetables: enhances the taste of roasted vegetables.
- Meat: ideal for marinating meat, fish and seafood.
- Cheeses: great with various types of cheese and toasted bread as a delectable accompaniment.
- Desserts: adds the unique taste of figs and lemon.
- Gourmet cuisine: ideal for garnishing and highlighting gourmet-style dishes with the flavours of figs and aniseed.
v4vita - The essence of Crete in every drop
A legacy of tradition and quality
v4vita is a family-run company rooted in the rich culinary and cultural heritage of Crete, the cradle of the Mediterranean diet. Their commitment to traditional recipes and quality means a positive impact on the local community.
The company draws on many years of experience and respect for natural resources. Each v4vita product is the result of a careful selection of ingredients and traditional practices that respect nature and the gastronomic culture of the Mediterranean.
Pure ingredients, certified quality
- 100% natural and organic: No preservatives or artificial ingredients.
- Organic: Organic certificates guarantee sustainability and respect for nature.
- Authentic craftsmanship: small batch production preserves traditional recipes and methods.
Flavors that tell a story
From award-winning balsamic glazes and artisanal vinegars to golden extra virgin olive oils and herbal infusions, v4vita products capture the essence of Crete-rich, vibrant and unforgettable.
Inspired by history, driven by sustainability
The v4vita logo, inspired by the 3,800-year-old inscription from the Palace of Knossos, reflects the company's commitment to preserving Cretan values and connecting modern customers with a timeless culinary heritage.
Health and taste in harmony
As advocates of the Mediterranean lifestyle, v4vita focuses on promoting health and vitality through food. Their products are designed for:
- Gourmet cuisine: salads, marinades, meats and desserts will be elevated.
- Healthy lifestyle: They promote a balanced diet with natural and nutritious ingredients.
- Sustainability: ethical local sourcing and eco-friendly packaging.
Taste Crete - where tradition meets modern excellence
Whether you're enjoying their balsamic glazes, enriching dishes with herbal syrups or indulging in the depth of organic olive oil, v4vita brings the flavours of Crete straight to your table.
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Additional parameters
| Category: | Balsamic vinegars and glazes |
|---|---|
| Objem: | 200 ml |
| Vhodné pro: | Bez lepku-Lactose Free-Soy Free-GMO Free-Vegan-Certifikace Bio |
| Výrobce: | Miltiadi Karatzi 61, Nea Alikarnassos, Heraklion Crete, Greece |
| Země původu: | Řecko, Kréta |
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About the company
The v4vita company is a family business, founded by people with many generations of experience in the production of pure Cretan products.
Their long-standing commitment to organic crops is no accident. The people at v4vita soon realised the value of the Cretan diet and how important eating fresh, natural produce is for our health.
The brand name v4vita is derived from the surname of the people in the company (Verigakis as vita).
V4vita was founded with the aim of offering you, the consumer/customer - both demanding and undemanding - the opportunity to discover the charm and benefits of Cretan food and gastronomy.
V4vita products are made only from Cretan ingredients, without preservatives, without additives and of course certified organic.
In order to meet the needs of the market, v4vita works with small producers and uses the knowledge of its people to offer pure, natural and certified products to consumers who are looking for high quality and taste at the same time.
The aim of v4vita is to satisfy even the most demanding palates while remaining true to the principles and values of the Cretan diet, which is the pinnacle of the Mediterranean diet.
Cretan diet
Recently, a growing body of research has highlighted the vital role that a healthy and balanced diet plays in maintaining good health. A balanced diet and regular exercise are our strongest allies in the quest for a better quality of life. The Cretan diet, which is a leading representative of the broader Mediterranean diet, has been shown through numerous studies and experiments to be a key element for health and coping with today's demanding lifestyles.
However, the Cretan diet is not limited to strict rules or specific procedures. If we were to define what the Cretan diet actually entails, it is necessary to mention not only the specific foods and ingredients it includes, but also the way in which this cuisine has become the centre of attention. This aspect is the key reason why the Cretan way of eating has been the subject of long-term studies by many experts.
So we cannot just talk about the quality of the food and the frequency with which the Cretans consumed their food. It is also essential to explore their lifestyle, which is intrinsically linked to and inseparable from this cuisine.
From ancient times until the 1980s, the Cretan diet focused mainly on the consumption of olive oil, wild plants, olives, fibre-rich dried bread, legumes, large quantities of vegetables and fruits, honey, dried fruits and seeds, wild herbs, grains and dairy products. Of course, the Cretans also ate meat, but its consumption was relatively limited.
But what made this culinary tradition famous around the world? Apart from the eating habits of the islanders themselves, what makes the Cretan diet unique is the daily physical activity, traditionally associated with field work and farming, and the absence of stress!
Simply put, this unique way of life of the islanders, who had to make efficient use of the limited resources of their territory, proved to be a recipe for longevity, good health and a high quality of life! So if you're looking for a tasty way to live a long and healthy life, there's no need to do anything but follow the Cretan diet - not out of necessity, but out of choice!
With regard to good nutrition, with the utmost respect for traditional Cretan values and in compliance with all safety standards, the people of v4vita offer consumers 100% natural products without preservatives and additives. Their aim is to bring the Cretan diet to as many people as possible so that they can benefit from its beneficial effects. At the same time, they are committed to continually creating unique products of great taste inspired by this diet.
V4vita logo
In v4vita they are influenced by the history, values and rich tradition of Crete. This is reflected in the company's logo, which is an element that emphasises and promotes its importance.
It is a 3,800-year-old inscription (1800 BC), discovered in the palace at Knossos, with characters thought to represent syllabic, and ideographic values of linear A.
Together with the Cretan hieroglyph, Linear A is one of the two undeciphered primary scripts of European civilization and one of the oldest writing systems in the world.
It was used exclusively by the peoples of Crete and the surrounding islands. It is related to linear script B, which followed linear script A and was used by the Mycenaean and Minoan civilizations.
The v4vita logo and some v4vita products display ideograms and syllables of the linear A font. The company's vision is to help contemporary people stay in touch with the history, culture and values that Crete has always stood for.
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