Simple Syrup Just Got Easier: No Heat Required
Simple Syrup – a cocktail mixer made of one part water and one part sugar – is so easy to make at home that you’d be crazy if you didn’t skip the $ 6 bottle at the store in favor of boiling your own water, sugar, and extra flavorings. … But if you don’t have a readily available heat source and still need a little sweetener, we have a simple syrup method that works great as a last resort.
You’ll need:
- A clean jar with tightly sealed lips (I do not recommend using cans).
- Granulated sugar (the finer the better; the better is superfine)
- Warmest tap water
- Elbow grease
Here’s how to do it:
- Add equal parts water and sugar to the jar in the desired amount, making sure it is no more than 2/3 full. Close the jar as tightly as possible.
- Shake it constantly for 2 minutes.
- Return the jar to an upright position and carefully remove the lid. You are ready to cook a mojito, gimbal or whatever your heart desires!
Note that this method applies to regular, plain syrup, which is one part sugar to one part water. Saturated Plain Syrup – Another simple syrup made with two parts sugar and one part water – also works if you double the shaking time to about 4 minutes. When making a thick, simple syrup, the sugar granules do not dissolve completely, but I have found that it works reasonably well for most applications.
The syrup isn’t as smooth and glossy as the one you make over a saucepan on the stove (see the quick version on the left, next to the traditional version on the top right), but it’s a fantastic substitute if you need simple syrups for cocktails or lemonade at picnics. gate or in any other situations on the go.
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