Simple syrup is a classic ingredient fro mixing cocktails, it is in every bar, used to sweeten countless drinks, and most importantly should be stocked in your home. If you have been buying this, you should probably stop!
The beauty of simple syrup is it really only requires two ingredients - sugar and water. You heat equal parts of each over medium heat, dissolve the sugar. Wait for bubbles to appear around the outside and remove from the heat. Allow to cool. Keep in mind the sugar dissolves into the water. If you have 1 cup of sugar and 1 cup of water, the yield is about 1.5 cups of simple syrup. Yes, it's really that easy! Not to mention, it's incredibly versatile and can take on any flavour, making it the perfect vessel to "sweeten" up your beverages. From boozy cocktails to your summer lemonade, it's the perfect sweetner. And we think it is definitely something you should have on hand all summer long.
You can make your own flavoured simple syrup too! Just add herbs, spices, edible flowers or fruit and you will always have that extra punch of flavour on hand. Here are a few tips for creating:
Adding Flavour. Be sure to stir the ingredients in while the mixture is hot, and then cover and cool. This allows the flavours to steep in.
Remove Add Ins. Once the mixture is cool remove any fruit, herbs etc. This will only cause the syrup to spoil faster.
Make a Bunch. Create a few varieties at once by making a larger batch of syrup and filling mason jars with different flavours.
Get Seasonal. Create berry and herb syrups during the summer, and cinnamon and vanilla syrups in the Fall.
You can keep basic simple syrup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 weeks, flavored simple syrups last about 2 weeks.
