Marinated Pazzo Berries With Balsamic Vinegar Food

MARINATED BERRIES

Steps:

• In a small saucepan, combine the sugar, vanilla bean and seeds, citrus zests, and water. Bring to a boil and then reduce the heat to low. Simmer very gently to make a loose syrup, about 25 minutes. Remove from the heat and add the citrus juices. Combine the berries in a bowl. Strain the warm syrup over the berries and marinate at room temperature for 30 minutes. Serve.

BALSAMIC VINEGAR STEAK MARINADE

Steps:

• Mix ingredients and pour over 4 steaks; I suggest New York strip, porterhouse, filet mignon, T-bone or any tender cut. Turn often to coat well.
• Marinade for 1/2 to 1 hour.
• Remove and pat dry.
• Discard garlic. Place steaks on a hot charcoal or gas grill and cook until rare to medium.

STRAWBERRIES WITH BALSAMIC VINEGAR

Steps:

• Hull the strawberries and cut them into quarters lengthwise.
• Place in a bowl and toss with the vinegar and sugar.
• Cover and allow to rest on the counter for about an hour so that the berries will "juice" then chill in the fridge for another hour.
• Toss again before serving.
• (I like a little more vinegar sprinkled on before serving but do this to your own taste.
• I should mention that these strawberries do not keep well so they should be prepared and eaten the same day. If made more than a few hours ahead of time they are mushy and texturally unappealing. Just thought I should mention that.

BERRY BALSAMIC MARINADE AND SAUCE

Steps:

• In a blender or food processor add wine, vinegar, strawberry preserves, garlic, Splenda, coffee, salt, pepper, pitted cherries and blueberries. Puree.
• Place meat in a large zip lock bag and pour in marinade. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or over night for steak and for at least 30 minutes and up to 4 hours for chicken.
• Remove meat and pour marinade into a small saucepan. Add finely chopped shallot and set aside.
• Preheat broiler or prepare grill. Broil or grill meat until cooked to desired doneness.
• While meat is grilling bring sauce to a boil and then simmer. Stir in butter.
• If using London Broil, thinly slice crosswise, against the grain. Add any juices on the cutting board to the sauce. Serve with sauce. If using chicken or other steak cuts - serve with sauce.