- The sauce separated while standing.
- This is natural. Shake vigorously again before use, or whisk through.
- What oil should I use?
- A good quality extra virgin olive oil is best, but if you want a milder flavour, mix half-and-half with sunflower oil.
Balsamic & mustard vinaigrette
A turbocharged version of the classic vinaigrette. Here, mustard is not just a flavouring but acts as the chemical 'glue' (emulsifier). It helps the vinegar and oil, which otherwise hate each other, to come together into a creamy, stable unity. Honey softens the sharp acidity of the balsamic vinegar.
Ingredients
2
tbsp
Dijon mustard (smooth)
2
tbsp
Balsamic vinegar (good quality)
3
tbsp
Extra virgin olive oil
1
tbsp
Honey
1
clove
Garlic
1
pinch
Salt
1
pinch
Freshly ground black pepper
Shopping List (0)
Equipment Needed
- Small jam jar with lid (for shaking) OR bowl and whisk
- Grater
Allergen Information
Mustard
Instructions
1
✓
Grate the garlic very finely.
Tip: Chunky garlic doesn't belong in a raw dressing as it overpowers other flavours if you bite into it.
2
✓
Put the mustard, balsamic vinegar, honey, grated garlic, salt and pepper into a bowl (or jar). Mix the base until smooth.
Tip: It's important to mix everything else before the oil. Salt doesn't dissolve in oil, only in vinegar!
3
✓
If working in a bowl: Whilst whisking continuously, drizzle in the oil in a thin stream. If in a jar: Pour in the oil, close the lid, and shake wildly for 30 seconds.
Tip: Slow addition and fast mixing (or shaking) breaks the oil into tiny droplets which the mustard coats, creating a thick emulsion.
4
✓
Taste it. If too acidic, add a little honey; if too flat, add a little salt.
Tip: Dip a salad leaf in to taste, so you sense the real effect.
5
✓
Leave to stand for 10 minutes on the counter or in the fridge for the flavours to meld.
Tip: During resting, the strength of the garlic mellows in the vinegar.
Recipe FAQ
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard (smooth)
- 2 tbsp Balsamic vinegar (good quality)
- 3 tbsp Extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp Honey
- 1 clove Garlic
- 1 pinch Salt
- 1 pinch Freshly ground black pepper