Transform your nacho game with the unexpected magic of Sticky Balsamic Original Pearls. These loaded nachos combine savory, spicy, and creamy elements with bursts of intense balsamic flavour that elevate every bite into a molecular gastronomy experience your guests won't forget.

Ingredients

For the Nachos:

• 400g (14oz) premium corn tortilla chips

• 300g (10.5oz) aged cheddar cheese, grated

• 150g (5oz) mozzarella cheese, grated

• 200g (7oz) black beans, drained and rinsed

• 1 red onion, finely diced

• 2 Roma tomatoes, diced

• 1 red bell pepper, diced

• 2 jalapeños, sliced

• 150g (5oz) sour cream

• 1 ripe avocado, diced

• 3 tablespoons Sticky Balsamic Original Pearls

• Fresh cilantro, chopped

• 2 spring onions, sliced

• Lime wedges for serving

Optional Protein:

• 300g (10.5oz) seasoned ground beef, chicken, or pulled pork

Instructions

Prepare the Base:

1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).

2. If using protein, cook and season your choice of ground beef, shredded chicken, or pulled pork. Set aside.

3. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and spread half the tortilla chips evenly across it.

Build the Layers:

4. Sprinkle half of the cheddar and mozzarella cheese over the first layer of chips.

5. Add half of the black beans, diced red onion, bell pepper, and cooked protein (if using).

6. Add the remaining tortilla chips on top, then repeat with the remaining cheese, beans, onion, and bell pepper.

7. Scatter jalapeño slices across the top.

Bake:

8. Place in the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.

The Sticky Balsamic Pearl Finish:

9. Remove the nachos from the oven and immediately add the fresh toppings: dollops of sour cream, diced avocado, diced tomatoes, fresh cilantro, and sliced spring onions.

10. Here's where the magic happens—carefully distribute Sticky Balsamic Original Pearls across the entire nacho platter. Place them strategically so they sit on top like glistening jewels.

11. The Sticky Balsamic Original Pearls will maintain their shape and provide surprise bursts of intense balsamic flavour with each bite, creating an unexpected sweet-tangy contrast to the savory, spicy nachos.

Serve:

12. Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side. Encourage guests to squeeze fresh lime over their portion for an extra flavour dimension.

Chef's Tips

• The key to these nachos is the surprise element—Sticky Balsamic Original Pearls burst in your mouth, releasing intense balsamic flavour that cuts through the richness of cheese and sour cream while complementing the savory elements.

• Don't add the pearls before baking—they need to stay intact on top of the finished nachos for that perfect burst experience.

• For a sweeter twist, try Sticky Balsamic Premium Fig Pearls, which pair beautifully with pulled pork or caramelized onions.

• Sticky Balsamic Premium Pomegranate Pearls add a fruity dimension that works wonderfully with chicken.

• Build your nachos in layers to ensure every chip gets toppings and cheese—no sad naked chips at the bottom!

• Serve on a large wooden board or platter for that restaurant-quality presentation.

The Sticky Balsamic Pearl Experience

Unlike traditional balsamic drizzle that soaks into nachos making them soggy, Sticky Balsamic Pearls sit proudly on top, maintaining their spherical shape until you bite into them. Each pearl delivers an explosion of premium balsamic that creates a sophisticated flavour contrast—the molecular gastronomy technique that won Australia's 2023 Innovation Award, now making your nachos unforgettable.

Serving Suggestions

Serves 4-6 as an appetizer or 2-3 as a main course. Perfect for game day, entertaining, or any occasion where you want to wow your guests with something familiar yet extraordinary.

Pair with cold beer, margaritas, or a crisp white wine. The Sticky Balsamic pearls add an upscale element that makes these nachos suitable for both casual gatherings and more sophisticated entertaining.