Looking for information about simple syrup? You have come to the right place. We have all you need to know about this simple and useful sweetener.
What is Simple Syrup?
Simple syrup, also called sugar syrup is a versatile ingredient commonly used in the culinary world. Mostly in the creation of cocktails and desserts. It is a sweetening agent that consists of just two basic ingredients: sugar and water.
Uses for Simple Syrup
Simple syrup is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of ways to enhance the flavor of your favorite beverages and dishes.
There are many uses for this humble ingredient, here are just a few:
1. Cocktails and Mocktails
Simple or sugar syrup is a must-have ingredient for any professional or home bartender. It dissolves easily in cold liquids, making it perfect for sweetening cocktails and mocktails. Whether you're mixing up a classic mojito, a refreshing lemonade, or a fruity margarita, a splash of simple syrup can add the sweetness you are looking for.
2. Baking
Sweet syrup is a versatile ingredient for bakers. It can be brushed onto cakes and pastries to keep them moist and add a touch of sweetness. It's also great for making syrups for drizzling over pancakes, waffles, or French toast. You can even use it to sweeten homemade whipped cream or as a glaze for fruit tarts. The possibilities are endless!
3. Iced Coffee and Tea
If you're like iced coffee or tea, simple sugar syrup is a game-changer. Instead of using granulated sugar that can sink to the bottom of your glass, try sweetening your cold brew or iced tea with simple syrup. It blends easily and quickly into any cold beverage.
4. Fruit Salads and Desserts
This syrup is a fantastic way to enhance the natural sweetness of fresh fruits. Adding a drizzle of simple syrup to fresh fruit can add extra flavor, especially if some fruit isnt as sweet as you prefer. You can also use it to macerate berries, which softens them and brings out their juices. Simple syrup can also be used to sweeten homemade popsicles, sorbets, or fruit salads.
5. Marinades and Glazes
The syrup can be a secret ingredient in marinades and glazes for grilled meats, seafood, and vegetables. It adds a touch of sweetness and helps to caramelize the outer layer, creating a beautiful glaze and flavorful dish. You can combine simple syrup with other ingredients like soy sauce, garlic, ginger, or chili flakes to create your own unique marinades and glazes.
6. Coffee and Tea Sweetener
If you prefer your hot beverages sweetened, the sweet syrup can be a convenient alternative to granulated sugar. It dissolves quickly in hot liquids, ensuring that your coffee or tea is evenly sweetened. Plus, you won't have to worry about any undissolved sugar settling at the bottom of your cup.
7. Homemade Soda
Syrup is the key to creating your own custom-flavored sodas. Mix it with carbonated water and your choice of fruit juice or extracts to create a refreshing and fizzy beverage.
Why You Should Not Buy Simple Syrup
While it may seem convenient to purchase pre-made simple syrup from the store, there are several reasons why you should reconsider and make it at home.
1. Cost-Effective
One of the main reasons to avoid buying simple syrup is the cost. Store-bought simple syrup can be quite expensive compared to the minimal cost of making it yourself. The cost for a 12 fluid ounce container at our local grocery store is about $4.50 and at the liquor store it's $5.70. Really?? All you need is sugar and water. By making your own simple syrup, you can save money in the long run.
2. Control Over Ingredients
When you make sugar syrup at home, you have complete control over the ingredients used. Some store-bought syrups may contain additives, preservatives, and artificial flavors. Homemade is more natural and you can even make it organic by simply using organic sugar.
3. Customization
Another advantage of making your own simple syrup is the ability to customize it according to your preferences. You can experiment with different types of sugar, such as brown or organic sugar, to add unique flavors to your syrup. Additionally, you can infuse the syrup with herbs, fruits, or spices to create exciting and personalized flavors.
4. Freshness
By making your own simple syrup, you can ensure its freshness. Store-bought syrups may have a longer shelf life due to the addition of preservatives, but they sometines lack the freshness and vibrant taste that homemade syrups offer. Making your own syrup elimates an off-flavor.
5. Environmental Impact
Choosing to make your own simple syrup also has a positive impact on the environment. Store-bought syrups often come in plastic bottles or containers that contribute to plastic waste. By making your own syrup, you can store it in reusable glass bottles or jars, reducing your plastic consumption and promoting sustainability.
So next time you need simple syrup, consider making it yourself.
How to Make Simple Syrup
With two ingredients and about 5 minutes, you can easily make simple syrup at home.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of granulated sugar
- 1 cup of water
Instructions:
- In a small saucepan, combine the sugar and water.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir until the sugar has completely dissolved.
- Continue to heat the mixture until it comes to a gentle boil.
- Reduce the heat to low and let the syrup simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the syrup cool completely.
- Once cooled, transfer the simple syrup to a clean, airtight container, such as a glass jar or bottle.
- Your homemade simple syrup is now ready to be used in your favorite recipes!
NOTES: You can easily double or triple the recipe. As long as you use equal amounts of sugar and water.
To ensure freshness, the syrup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one month.
Now that you know how to make simple, sweet, and easy syrup, you can enjoy the convenience of having this essential sweetener readily available in your kitchen.
Simple Syrup Recipe
Looking for information about simple syrup? You have come to the right place. We have all you need to know about this simple and useful sweetener.
Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
Instructions
- In a small saucepan, combine the sugar and water.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir until the sugar has completely dissolved.
- Continue to heat the mixture until it comes to a gentle boil.
- Reduce the heat to low and let the syrup simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the syrup cool completely.
- Once cooled, transfer the simple syrup to a clean, airtight container, such as a glass jar or bottle.
- Your homemade simple syrup is now ready to be used in your favorite recipes!
Nutrition Information:
Yield:
12Serving Size:
1Amount Per Serving:Calories: 65Total Fat: 0gSaturated Fat: 0gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 0gCholesterol: 0mgSodium: 1mgCarbohydrates: 17gFiber: 0gSugar: 17gProtein: 0g
Calories are estimated and may vary.
Try our Elegant Pomegranate Martini too! Don't forget to view our Pinterest Cocktail Recipe Board for more cocktail inspirations.
