So I decided to keep my first post “simple.” I am always amazed to see bottles of simple syrup on the shelf at the grocery store on sale for exorbitant amounts ($5-6 for the one pictured below).
Simple syrup is just a supersaturated water and sugar solution. You combine equal parts of granulated sugar and water together in a heatproof container and heat it until all the sugar is dissolved. You can do this in the microwave or on the stove. You could even do it over an open flame if the need arose. Then let the solution cool and use as desired. Store it in the fridge where it will keep for at least two weeks but I’ve used it a month later and it still tastes fine — it is just sugar and water after all.
You can create custom flavored simple syrups for different purposes. I like to make a lime zest-infused one for my homemade margaritas but you could also infuse with basil, lavender, etc. Alternately, I mix it with a little rum to brush on my cakes before frosting them to keep them extra moist and flavorful. You could also infuse it with some vanilla beans for cakes or drinks. Simple syrup is also great for sweetening iced tea since the sugar is already dissolved. The sky is the limit where this is concerned.
Some of my upcoming posts will feature recipes that make use of this handy kitchen staple, so stay tuned…
Susie Homemaker, MD 