Strawberry syrup

Strawberry Syrup: A Homemade Delight

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Infusion Time: 4 weeks
Total: 4 weeks and 20 minutes
Servings: 10-12 servings

Who doesn’t remember the sweet and fresh aroma of strawberries? This strawberry syrup will not only bring back summer memories but will transform every drink or dessert into an unforgettable experience. Whether you want to enhance your cocktails or add a touch of sweetness to your favorite yogurt, this syrup is the perfect solution. So, let’s embark on the adventure of making this delicious syrup!

The History of Strawberry Syrup

Strawberry syrup has a long tradition, used over time to preserve the flavor of summer fruits. Making fruit syrups has been an ingenious way to keep seasonal flavors throughout the year. With every sip, you’ll connect to the history of this delight, which has brought joy to tables around the world.

Ingredients

- 3 kg fresh strawberries (choose ripe strawberries with a deep color and strong aroma)
- 1 kg sugar (you can experiment with brown sugar for a more complex flavor)
- 1 l alcohol (vodka or rum is recommended, depending on your preference)

Preparing the Strawberries

1. Washing and cleaning: Start by washing the strawberries under cold running water, ensuring you remove all dust and impurities. Remove the stems and any unsuitable parts of the fruit.
2. Sugar over strawberries: Place the cleaned strawberries in a large bowl and sprinkle the sugar evenly over them. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean towel and let it sit in the sun for 4-6 hours. This process will help the strawberries release their natural juice, forming a delicious syrup.

Making the Syrup

1. Sensing the aroma: After the strawberries have sat in the sun, you’ll notice they have released a natural syrup. Use a fine strainer or cheesecloth to separate the syrup from the fruit. You can keep the strawberry pieces to use in desserts or drinks!
2. Mixing with alcohol: In a clean container, pour the obtained syrup and add the alcohol. Use a wooden spoon to mix well, ensuring the alcohol integrates perfectly with the syrup.
3. Bottling: Pour the syrup into clean bottles, making sure to leave a little space at the top for expansion. Seal the bottle caps tightly.

Storing the Syrup

1. The ideal place: Place the bottles in a cool, dark place, such as a cupboard or pantry. Let them infuse for 4 weeks, during which the flavors will combine and intensify.
2. Occasional shaking: Don’t forget to gently shake the bottles once a week to ensure an even mixing of the ingredients.

Serving Suggestions

This strawberry syrup is extremely versatile! Here are a few ideas for using it:

- Cocktails: Add it to cocktail mixes to give them a fruity note. It’s delicious combined with prosecco or sparkling water.
- Desserts: Use it to sweeten ice cream, panna cotta, or Greek yogurt. A spoonful of syrup can turn a simple dessert into a masterpiece.
- Hot drinks: Add it to your favorite tea for a special flavor.

Nutritional Benefits

Strawberries are rich in vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, making them a healthy ingredient. Although the syrup contains sugar, consumed in moderation, it can add a natural sweet note to your dishes.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, but the syrup will have a less intense flavor. Fresh strawberries provide the best results.

2. Can I reduce the sugar?
You can experiment with the amount of sugar, but keep in mind that it helps preserve the syrup.

3. What type of alcohol should I use?
Vodka is the most common, but rum adds an interesting tropical note.

Possible Variations

- Strawberry mint syrup: Add a few fresh mint leaves to the syrup for a refreshing taste.
- Strawberry lemon syrup: Squeeze the juice of a lemon into the syrup to add a tangy note.

This strawberry syrup is not just a recipe, but an experience. Enjoy the process of making it and let yourself be carried away by summer memories, even on cold winter days. Each bottle will bring a touch of sunshine into your life!