simple syrup

Type:

Description:

Generic for high-concentration water sugar solution, either prepared at home or available commercially. See also cane syrup, rock candy syrup, gomme syrup, capillaire syrup and syrup. Home made simple syrup can be produced with varying sweetness levels based on proportions from the very sweet 3 parts sugar to 1 part water to the very simple formula of equal parts of each. Drink recipes may require adjustment based on the proportions chosen, but below are instructions for making the latter which suits drinks seen in Mixology.Recipes: Fill a bottle halfway with granulated sugar and halfway with filtered water. Cap the bottle and shake it vigorously for several seconds. Set it down for several minutes to allow it to settle, then shake it some more. In time, all of the sugar will have dissolved in the water creating a 1:1 simple syrup. As indicated above, proportions may be adjusted to make stronger, thicker syrup, though the more sugar used, the longer dissolution will take. Using "superfine" granulated sugar (*not confectioners or powdered sugar*) speeds dilution. The entire process may be accelerated by stirring the sugar and water (at whatever proportional balance is chosen) at a simmer in a saucepan over medium heat. Care should be taken to regulate the heat as anything over a simmer may create a frothy scum that requires removal. Finally, it can be useful to stir in a small quantity of neutral grain spirits (or vodka) as a preservative if long storage is planned.