Supporting local causes: Aprons for Gloves Part 1 - Bruschetta with Balsamic Reduction

Here is part 1 of a 2-post series adventure on our good deed this weekend. This weekend we're supporting Aprons for Gloves and their event called the Restaurant Rumble- where local restaurants fight to keep a boxing gym alive for the local Eastside Kids.

How? 

By throwing a fundraising feast for one of the hopeful fighters (and one of our dear friends). Proceeds went to fundraising his team, and we're hoping he gets to fight at the Restaurant Rumble (or at least we get to support the cause). 

We hosted a home cooked vegetarian friendly dinner, and charged everyone $20 (suggested donation). For an appetizer, we started out with some fresh bruschetta. Recipe below: 

Ingredients (serves 10-15):

2 French baguettes 

7-8 medium sized tomatoes 

1/4 cup balsamic vinegar (this varies depending on how much glaze is needed)
2.5 TBSP brown sugar

salt, pepper, olive oil, garlic powder, thyme, oregano

1. Preheat the oven (suggested 350 celsius). Slice the baguettes into 1/2 inch slices, place in a baking pan and lightly brush with some olive oil. Place in the oven to toast for about 10-15 minutes or until the bread is crispy on top. 
2. While the baguettes are toasting, dice all the tomatoes and place in a big bowl. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, thyme and oregano to taste.
3. Once the buns are nice and toasty, remove from the oven and place tomatoes on top of baguette slices.
4. In a sauce pan, combine the balsamic vinegar and brown sugar in medium heat. (WARNING: do not. DO NOT stick your nose on top to smell the concoction. This can be painful... for your brain). Once the balsamic vinegar is brought to a boil, remove it from the heat and stir it continuously until it thickens into a syrup like consistency.
5. Glaze the baguettes with the balsamic reduction QUICKLY. Balsamic reduction hardens once cool, we suggest washing the spoon and sauce pan ASAP or melting the mixture in hot water before washing. 

Mini Bruschetta Bites 

These bite-sized bruschetta appies were gone pretty fast! Stay tuned to see what's in store for the main course!