The secret to a good cocktail is the syrup used. The sweet, sometimes fruity flavors enhance the drink, masking up the bitterness of the alcohol and bringing an added dimension.
While you can buy syrups in many stores, it’s pretty easy to make at home. The key is one part water to one part sugar. From there on, go wild with infusions. Vanilla beans, citrus peel, and ground spices are some of our favorites.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup granulated sugar
Instructions:
- Heat the water in a small saucepan over medium-low heat until hot, but do not bring to a boil.
- Add the sugar and stir until fully dissolved.
- Once fully dissolved, reduce the heat to a simmer, and add your ingredients of choice. Simmer them for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Pour the syrup through a fine-mesh sieve and let it cool to room temperature.
- Using a funnel if needed, transfer the simple syrup into a glass jar. It can then be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks.
