How to Add Flavor to Simple Syrup
A staple in every bartender's repertoire and used by many bakers, the addition of simple syrup introduces flavor into your food and drink. Just as the name imples, simple syrup takes less than 15 minutes to prepare, although it will take overnight to reach the desired enhancement. Flavors are only limited by your imagination; you can add fresh or dried herbs, juices, spices and fresh or frozen fruits to create your own flavor choices. Include it in your mojito and tropical alcoholic drinks or your baked goods for a tasty treat. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- 2 cups sugar
- 1 cup water
- Saucepan
- 1 stalk vanilla bean
- Heatproof container
- 3 tbsp. fresh or dried lavender flowers
- Mesh metal strainer
- 1/3 cup fresh or dried mint or eucalyptus
- 1 cup fruit juice
Instructions
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1
Combine two cups sugar and 1 cup water into a small saucepan. Bring it to a boil to make simple syrup.
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2
Slice a vanilla bean lengthwise. Place it into a heatproof container. Pour in the simple syrup and let it cool. Place into the refrigerator for 8 hours before using.
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3
Pour the hot simple syrup over the lavender flowers. Let mixture steep and cool. Store in the refrigerator overnight. Remove the mixture from the refrigerator, and pour it though a strainer to eliminate the leaves before using in your drinks.
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4
Make a mint or eucalyptus variation. Bring the simple syrup to a boil and reduce heat to simmer. Add the leaves for 1 minute. Pour the mixture into a container and allow it to cool. Place into the refrigerator overnight and strain it before use.
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5
Mix equal amounts of cooled simple syrup with fruit juice. Add it to your tropical cocktail.
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1
Tips & Warnings
For cocktails, use 2 parts sugar to 1 part water for a thicker syrup.
Use equal parts sugar to water for a thinner syrup or for baking.
Try your flavored simple syrup with plain yogurt.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit greece - cocktail 1 image by Andrew Buckin from Fotolia.com
