Simple Syrup
User Reviews
5
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Cuisine
American
Simple Syrup
Description
The Simple Syrup recipe combines water and sugar, heated gently in a saucepan until the sugar fully dissolves. An optional step involves steeping fresh herbs like basil or mint after the syrup is removed from heat, imparting subtle herbal notes without adding bitterness. After steeping, the syrup is strained and chilled.
The result is a clear, sweet liquid that can be mixed into cocktails, iced teas, lemonades, or desserts to add moisture and sweetness evenly without the grittiness of undissolved sugar. The syrup’s smooth consistency helps it blend easily into cold liquids.
Simple syrup can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator, ready to sweeten drinks or culinary creations as needed. Adding herbs offers variety and can complement many flavor profiles.
Herb infusion should be done off heat to preserve the fresh herbal aroma and prevent bitterness from developing.
Ingredients
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup basil optional, or mint
Instructions
- Combine the water and sugar in a small saucepan over medium heat and simmer, stirring, until the sugar dissolves.
- If desired, add herbs, to infuse, turn the heat off and let steep for 15 minutes. Strain and chill.
- The simple syrup can be made in advance and stored in the fridge.
Notes
- Simple syrup can be flavored with various herbs like basil or mint to customize the taste.
- Store the syrup chilled in a sealed container to keep it fresh for several weeks.
- Infuse herbs off heat to avoid a bitter taste from prolonged cooking.
- This syrup dissolves evenly into cold beverages, making it useful for cocktails and iced drinks.