Making Simple Syrup
Simple syrup is a one-to-one mixture of granulated sugar and water, heated just until the grains disappear. It provides a way to incorporate sweetness into cold beverages without leaving gritty residue at the bottom of the glass.
The clarity of the liquid is your gauge.
Use a small saucepan and keep the heat low to avoid caramelizing the sugar, which would change the flavor and color of the syrup.
- small saucepan
- whisk or spoon
- glass jar for storage
What goes in.
- 1 cupgranulated white sugar
- 1 cupwater
Stop at the shimmer
The moment the mixture turns from cloudy to completely transparent, pull the pan off the heat. You are dissolving sugar, not cooking a candy base.
The method.
Combine the ingredients
Pour the water and the sugar into your saucepan together before turning on the burner.
Apply gentle heat
Set the stove to medium-low. Use a whisk to move the sugar around, helping it hydrate.
Watch for the transition
As the liquid heats, the swirling white haze will vanish. Once the liquid is as clear as tap water, it is ready.
Cool and bottle
Remove from the heat immediately. Let it reach room temperature before pouring it into a clean jar.
Other turns to take.
Rich Simple Syrup
Use a two-to-one ratio of sugar to water. This version is thicker and more shelf-stable.
Infused Syrup
Add a split vanilla bean, a handful of fresh mint, or a strip of lemon zest while the syrup cools to pull those aromatics into the liquid.
When it doesn't go to plan.
Always use room-temperature water to help the sugar dissolve evenly.
Store the finished syrup in the refrigerator; it will keep for about a month.
If you see sugar crystals forming on the sides of the jar after a few days, discard the batch, as the ratio was off or it was cooked too long.
The ones that keep coming up.
Can I use brown sugar?
Yes, but it will result in a syrup with a distinct molasses note and a darker color.
Do I have to boil the water?
No. Boiling can evaporate the water and change your concentration. You only need enough heat to dissolve the sugar.
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