Simple syrups are just that. Simple. Often time when customers ask me for simple syrup at Edina Liquor, I'm astounded. "Don't you have sugar and water at home?"
A lot of people just don't know what goes into making syrups. It's one of the easiest things to do at home to spice up your eventing cocktails. You can even flavor it, too! All you need is one cup of sugar, and one cup of water. I'm serious. That's all. Put the two ingredients into a saucepan on high heat, and stir until the sugar has all dissolved. If you're feeling adventurous, throw a cup of your favorite fuit. This will take about 8-10 minutes of stirring, or until the fruit has basically turned to mush.
Then simply strain the mixture into a mason jar and put it in your frige. Strawberry simple syrup goes great with lime juice and Skaalvenn white rum, or you can make a chai tea syrup for a cold weather old fashioned. Try mint and cucumber to mix with Dampfwerk Gin and a lemon wedge. The ideas are endless. Blackberry, honey, cinnamon, orange... get creative! Your friends and taste buds will thank you.
Graham Luterbach is a liquor specialist for Edina Liquor.
