Strawberry syrup

Strawberry Syrup: a sweet and fragrant delicacy

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Rest time: 24 hours
Boiling time: 20 minutes
Total time: 24 hours and 35 minutes
Number of servings: 5 bottles of 330 ml

Who doesn't love the fresh and sweet aroma of strawberries? This strawberry syrup is a wonderful way to keep the taste of summer all year round. Used as an ingredient in various dishes, this syrup is perfect for sweetening sparkling water, adding to desserts, or enriching yogurt. Moreover, it's a simple recipe that doesn't require advanced cooking skills. Let's discover together how to prepare this delicious syrup!

Necessary ingredients:

- 4 kg of fresh strawberries
- 2 kg of sugar

Useful tips about ingredients:
- Choose ripe strawberries with an intense fragrance. Quality strawberries will make a difference in the final taste of the syrup.
- If you want a syrup with a more complex flavor, you can add a few mint leaves or a vanilla pod during boiling.
- Make sure that the containers you use for storing the syrup are well cleaned and sterilized to prevent the growth of bacteria.

The history of strawberry syrup:
Fruit syrups have a long history, being used in various cultures as methods for preserving seasonal fruits, as well as a main ingredient in drinks and desserts. Strawberries, with their sweet and vibrant flavor, have been appreciated over time, and strawberry syrup has become a popular ingredient in many kitchens. This simple recipe is a perfect way to celebrate the taste of fresh strawberries and bring a touch of summer into every day.

Preparing the strawberry syrup:

1. Washing the strawberries:
Start by washing the strawberries well under a stream of cold water. Make sure to remove any impurities or pesticides. After washing, carefully remove the stems.

2. Initial mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the cleaned strawberries with the sugar. Gently mix to coat each fruit with sugar. This process will help extract the juice from the strawberries, forming a flavorful base for the syrup. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it sit in the refrigerator for 24 hours, stirring occasionally. This resting period is crucial for obtaining a thick and flavorful syrup.

3. Processing the strawberries:
After 24 hours, you will notice that the strawberries have released a significant amount of juice. Remove the strawberries from the formed syrup. They can be used later to make jam, frozen, or preserved. Don't throw them away! The strawberries will still be delicious and can be used in many other recipes.

4. Boiling the syrup:
Strain the obtained syrup through a fine sieve or cheesecloth to remove impurities. Pour the syrup into a pot and bring it to a boil over medium heat. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The syrup will begin to thicken and become glossy. Be careful not to let it boil too long, as you risk getting a consistency that is too thick.

5. Bottling the syrup:
Once you have achieved the desired consistency, pour the hot syrup into sterilized bottles. Fill them up to 1.5 cm from the top and seal them tightly. This step is essential to prevent oxidation and preserve the fresh aroma of the syrup.

6. Cooling:
Wrap the bottles in thick blankets and let them cool slowly for 1-2 days. This process helps the syrup stabilize and develop its flavor.

Serving suggestions:
Strawberry syrup can be served with sparkling water and ice cubes for a refreshing drink, perfect for hot days. It is also delicious on yogurt or ice cream, adding a splash of color and intense flavor. You can also use the syrup in cocktails, such as a strawberry mojito, to add a sweet and fragrant twist.

Nutritional benefits:
Strawberries are rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber, making them an excellent food for health. Consuming strawberries can help improve the immune system and maintain skin health. Even the syrup, although sweetened, retains some of these properties, making it a better choice than many other industrially sweetened drinks.

Possible variations:
If you want to experiment, try combining strawberries with other fruits, such as raspberries or blackberries, for a mixed syrup. You can also add a citrus note by using lemon or orange juice to achieve a more vibrant flavor.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use frozen strawberries for this recipe?
- Yes, frozen strawberries can be used, but make sure to thaw and drain them well before mixing them with the sugar.

2. What can I do with the leftover strawberries after making the syrup?
- The leftover strawberries can be turned into jam, frozen, or used to make smoothies.

3. How can I store the syrup for a longer time?
- The syrup can be stored in a cool, dark place for several months. Once opened, it is recommended to keep it in the refrigerator.

This strawberry syrup is not just a recipe, but a way to bring a touch of summer into every day. Whether you use it to sweeten drinks or as a topping for desserts, it will surely bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones. Enjoy every drop!