Herbal syrups are a unique way to add a burst of flavor to your favorite dishes, and make the less tasty medicinal herbs go down easier. They can be added as a replacement for the liquid in a variety of recipes, from pie fillings, to sorbets, to cakes. They can be used as a glaze and brushed on top of cupcakes, cakes, muffins, or breads. You can drizzle the syrup on fruit or add it to a warm cup of tea. Herbal syrups can even be taken on their own by the spoonful!
The great thing about these syrups is their versatility. You can customize your own blend to suit your tastes or health needs. With this simple recipe for herbal syrup you can enjoy both the medicinal and flavor benefits of your favorite herbs!
You Will Need:
- 1 ½ cups water
- 1 ½ cups sugar
- 8-10 springs or a large handful of leaves
Making the Syrup (yields about 2 cups):
- Combine water and sugar in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves completely.
- Add herbs, brushing the leaves against the side of the pan with a spoon. Remove from heat and cover; let stand for 30 minutes.
- Remove leaves and squeeze them into the syrup to extract all the flavor you can. Pour the syrup into a clean bottle or jar.
The syrup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one month. To keep them lasting longer, they can also be frozen. Leave at least 1 inch of space in each jar you fill, tighten lids, and store in the freezer for up to 1 year. To thaw, remove jar from freezer the night before you want to use them, or place jar in a bowl of warm (not hot) water. The syrup can be refrozen.