Blackberry Syrup

Natural blackberry syrup: a summer delicacy

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Resting time: 6 hours
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 6 hours and 50 minutes
Number of servings: approximately 1 liter of syrup

The history of blackberry syrup takes us back to summer moments when berries are in full season and their sweet-tart aroma delights our senses. This syrup is not just a refreshing drink, but also an excellent way to preserve the taste of summer for cooler days. Additionally, blackberry syrup can be used in various recipes, from cocktails to desserts, being a versatile and flavorful ingredient.

Necessary ingredients:

- 600 g of fresh blackberries (choose ripe but firm berries)
- 600 g of sugar (preferably white sugar, but you can also experiment with brown sugar for a deeper flavor)
- 1 liter of water
- Optional: juice from one lemon (for an extra freshness)

Necessary utensils:

- A large bowl for macerating the blackberries
- Blender (or a hand masher)
- Strainer
- A pot for boiling
- Bottle or container for storage (make sure it is clean and dry)

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Wash the blackberries: Start by carefully washing the blackberries under a stream of cold water to remove impurities and any insects. Make sure the blackberries are well drained to avoid diluting the syrup.

2. Macerating the blackberries: Place the blackberries in a large bowl and add the sugar over them. Gently mix so that the sugar is evenly distributed. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and let it sit at room temperature for about 6 hours. During this time, the sugar will extract juice from the fruit, and the blackberries will intensify in flavor.

3. Preparing the syrup: After six hours, the blackberries should have released a lot of juice. Use a blender to turn the blackberries and their juice into a fine paste. If you prefer a more textured syrup, you can skip this step and use the blackberries as they are.

4. Straining the paste: Use a strainer to separate the juice from the seeds. Press with a spatula or spoon to extract as much of the aromatic liquid as possible. The remaining paste can be discarded or used in other recipes, for example, to flavor yogurt or as a filling for cakes.

5. Boiling the syrup: Pour the obtained juice into a pot, add 1 liter of water, and bring to a boil. Let it boil over medium heat for about 20 minutes. This process will concentrate the flavors and ensure a pleasant syrup texture.

6. Cooling and storing: After boiling, let the syrup cool slightly. Then pour it into a bottle or sterilized container, ensuring it is completely cooled before storing. The bottle can be kept in the fridge and consumed for a few weeks.

Useful tips:

- Flavoring the syrup: If you like a more tangy note, add the juice of a lemon during boiling. The lemon not only enhances the flavor but also helps preserve the vibrant color of the syrup.
- Alternative sugar option: You can try using honey or maple syrup instead of sugar for a more natural and healthy version. This will slightly change the flavor but will add an interesting note to your syrup.
- Blackberry ice cream: Use the blackberry syrup to make delicious ice cream. Mix it with cream or yogurt and freeze the mixture in an ice cream maker.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use frozen blackberries?
Yes, frozen blackberries can be used for this recipe. Make sure to let them thaw before using.

2. How can I use blackberry syrup?
Blackberry syrup is delicious added to sparkling or still water for a refreshing drink. You can also use it as a topping for pancakes, yogurt, or ice cream.

3. How many calories does blackberry syrup have?
A serving of syrup (approximately 30 ml) has around 70-80 calories, depending on the amount of sugar used. It is a healthier alternative to store-bought sweetened juices.

4. Can I keep the syrup longer?
If you want to extend the shelf life of the syrup, you can sterilize it by boiling the bottle before filling or adding a small amount of natural preservative, such as lemon juice.

Serving ideas:

Blackberry syrup can be served plain, diluted with water or sparkling water. It is also excellent in combination with gin and tonic, adding a fruity note. Give a splash of color and flavor to your favorite cocktails or use it as a topping for vanilla cakes or cheesecake.

In conclusion, this blackberry syrup recipe will not only delight your taste buds but will also bring a piece of summer filled with flavors into every bottle. So gather fresh blackberries and enjoy this natural delight!