why am i hungry???

i couldn't post any news this morning. i HAD to get right to work; a big project due (i'm sure you know how that is). i'm in between conference calls now so i thought i'd post a recipe.

balsamic syrup

slowly boil some balsamic vinegar (oh lets say a cup) with a tablespoon or two of sugar (raw) until it reduces by half. try to use a non metal saucepan if possible. you may also do this in the microwave. however, put a dish UNDER the bowl you're using to hold the balsamic. the stove method should take approximately 15 minutes, the microwave should take about 6 or 7 (it WILL boil over in the microwave so be vigilant). WARNING: your house WILL smell like vinegar. make sure to leave a window or two open and don't wear too much eye makeup because you're eyes WILL water. store in a non metal container in the fridge. it will keep for a while.

you may use it over fruit (the eye-talian way) such as strawberries and watermelon (drizzle a TINY bit over the fruit and let it sit a few minutes before partaking)

or you can use it to make my favorite BIG SANDWICH

get a big old loaf of CRUSTY eye-talian bread (or french). cut it in half. drizzle olive oil (the GOOD stuff not the crap) and balsamic syrup over both halves. you may tear up some fresh basil leaves and sprinkle on one of the halves. now load it up; roasted red peppers, sliced marinated mushrooms, sliced onions, cheese (i use vegan but i know not everyone is like me), pressed tofu sliced thinly (or if you must cold cuts of your choice), sliced GOOD olives, egg slices if you eat them, breaded fried eggplant, bean sprouts, bacon (i use morningstar farms non-meat - MICROWAVED. it comes out crispy. it won't in the oven or on top of the stove. ONLY in the microwave), sliced tomatoes,sliced pickles, hot peppers sliced and whatever else your little heart desires. place the other half on top of your newly created masterpiece. wrap in plastic wrap or tin foil. place in fridge with a WEIGHT on top of the entire length of the sandwich for at least 3 hours. ENJOY!