Simple Syrup

Simple syrup is a staple in any home bar or kitchen. It is easy to make and versatile. Use it in drink recipes like specialty coffees, cocktails, iced beverages, and desserts. Whether you’re an amateur mixologist or a seasoned bartender, having a bottle of homemade simple syrup on hand is a game-changer.

What is Simple Syrup?

Simple syrup is a liquid sweetener made by dissolving sugar in water over heat. Sweeten drinks without the grainy texture that solid sugar can leave behind. The standard ratio is one part water to one part sugar.

Ingredients

1. Organic Granulated Sugar
2. Water

Benefits of Organic Sugar

• FEWER CHEMICALS AND PESTICIDES
  Organic sugar is produced without the use of synthetic pesticides, herbicides, or fertilizers. This reduces exposure to potentially harmful chemicals that remain as residues on or in the sugar. Conventional sugar production involves the use of substances, which have adverse health effects over time.
  
• NON-GMO
  Organic sugar is derived from non-genetically modified (non-GMO) sugar cane or sugar beets. There are concerns about the long-term health and environmental impacts of genetically modified organisms (GMOs), so consuming non-GMO products can be preferable for those looking to avoid these risks.
  
• ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT
  Organic farming practices are generally more sustainable and environmentally friendly. They promote soil health, biodiversity, and water conservation, and reduce pollution from chemical runoff. By choosing organic sugar, you support farming methods that are better for the planet.
  
• NO ARTIFICIAL ADDITIVES
  Organic sugar production does not use artificial additives, bleaching agents, or preservatives, which are often found in conventional sugar processing.
  
• BETTER TASTE AND QUALITY
  Organic sugar has a superior taste and quality compared to conventional sugar. The flavor is more complex because it is less processed and retains more natural molasses.

Make Your Simple Syrup

Make your simple syrup at home. It is cost-effective. Customize the syrup and make your favorite flavors. I like to infuse my syrups with herbs, spices, or citrus zest to create unique flavors that elevate your cocktails and culinary creations.

METHOD

1. Combine the sugar and water in a medium saucepan.
2. Place the saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the sugar is fully dissolved. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes. Avoid boiling the mixture to prevent crystallization.
3. Once the sugar is dissolved, remove the saucepan from the heat and let the syrup cool to room temperature.
4. Transfer the cooled syrup to a clean glass jar or bottle.
5. Seal tightly and store in the refrigerator for up to a month.

Variations and Tips

Make a richer and sweeter syrup, use a 2:1 ratio of sugar to water. The 2:1 variation is perfect to use with sweeter cocktails or desserts.

Infuse simple syrup with flavors to add complexity to your drinks.

Here are a few ideas:

• HERBAL SYRUP
  Add a handful of fresh herbs (like mint, basil, or rosemary) to the sugar-water mixture before heating. Strain out the herbs after cooling.
• SPICED SYRUP
  Add whole spices (ginger, cinnamon sticks, cloves, or cardamom pods) to the saucepan. Strain out the spices after cooling.
• CITRUS SYRUP
  Add citrus zest (like lemon, lime, or orange) to the mixture for a bright, zesty flavor. Strain out the zest after cooling.

Check out my Vanilla Simple Syrup Recipe to amplify your favorite coffee drink.

Storage

Store the simple syrup in the refrigerator in an airtight container. Properly stored, it should last for about a month.

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