Simple Syrup

A simple syrup is perfect in any chilled drink calling for a dash of sweetness. While regular granulated sugar can be stubbornly slow to dissolve in cold liquid (think of the grains that collect at the bottom of a glass of iced tea), simple syrup blends in smoothly and easily.

Simple Syrup IS Simple:
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup water

Combine sugar and water in a small saucepan and simmer over medium heat, stirring until sugar is completely dissolved. Allow mixture to cool, then strain into a clean container with a tight-fitting lid. Keeps in the refrigerator for several weeks.

*For Rum Drinks, you can substitute Brown sugar instead of white.

*For a thicker Syrup, use 2:1 (Syrup to Water Ratio).

*If you Want a Simpler No Stove Way, Use Casters Sugar instead of refined sugar. Shake ingredients in the bottle, until it dissolves.

*For Extra Flavor, Add things like ginger, vanilla pods, cinnamon sticks, fresh lavender (lavender lemonade or tea anyone?), Fresh Mint, Fresh Basil to the simmering process.  Take off burner and allow to steep 20-30 minutes.  Strain, cool and funnel into container.