Cherry syrup

The summer dessert that reminds us of the beautiful moments of childhood is undoubtedly cherry syrup. This syrup not only adds an intense and delicious flavor to various dishes but is also an excellent solution for preserving seasonal fruits. In this recipe, I will show you step by step how to prepare a cherry syrup with an unforgettable taste that will delight both you and your loved ones.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Waiting time: 24 hours
Boiling time: 15 minutes
Total: 25 hours and 45 minutes
Number of servings: Depends on how much syrup you want to prepare

Ingredients:
- 4 kg of cherries (weighed with pits)
- 2 kg of sugar
- 2 aspirin tablets

Preparing the cherry syrup

1. Washing and preparing the cherries
Start by carefully washing the cherries under a stream of cold water. Make sure to remove any impurities. After washing, cut each cherry in half and remove the pits. This step is essential, as the pits can give the syrup a bitter taste.

2. Mixing with sugar
Once the cherries are cleaned, place them 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 the cherries sit at room temperature for about 24 hours. During this time, stir occasionally to help the sugar dissolve completely.

3. Preparing the jars
Before proceeding, it is important to prepare the jars. Wash them thoroughly with hot water and soap, then rinse them with clean water. If desired, you can sterilize the jars in the oven at 100°C for 15 minutes. This will help prevent bacterial growth, ensuring that the syrup is properly preserved.

4. Filling the jars
After the sugar has completely dissolved, take a sterilized jar and start filling it with the cherries and the syrup formed. Make sure to leave a little space at the top of the jar, as the syrup will be topped with an aspirin solution, which will help with preservation.

5. Adding the aspirin
Grind the two aspirin tablets until they become powder. Sprinkle the aspirin powder over the cherries and syrup, then seal the jars with the lids. Make sure they are tightly sealed to prevent air from entering.

6. Boiling the remaining syrup
If there is syrup left after filling the jars, do not throw it away! Place it in a saucepan and simmer over low heat for 15 minutes. Add the same aspirin powder to the hot syrup, mixing well. This concentrated syrup can be poured into clean bottles.

7. Filling the bottles
Use a knife or spatula to support the bottle on the table, preventing it from cracking while pouring the hot syrup. After filling, seal the bottles with caps and cover them with a blanket to cool slowly. This will help create a better seal.

Serving and usage
Cherry syrup can be consumed with water, but it is also ideal for use in desserts. You can add it to jellies, ice creams, or even cakes to give them a fresh and intense flavor. A wonderful idea is to use it as a topping for ice cream or pancakes.

Nutritional benefits
Cherries are rich in vitamins A and C, antioxidants, and fiber. They can help reduce inflammation and improve sleep quality due to their melatonin content. Additionally, cherry syrup is a healthier option compared to many other commercial syrups, having a lower sugar content, depending on personal preferences.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use other fruits to make syrup?
Absolutely! Syrup can also be made from cherries, strawberries, or raspberries. The process remains the same, but the maceration time and the amount of sugar may vary.

2. How can I tell if the syrup is well preserved?
Check the lids of the jars. If they are tightly sealed and there is no condensation inside, the syrup should be safe.

3. What is the shelf life of the syrup?
If stored in a cool, dark place, the syrup can be consumed for up to a year. Once opened, keep it in the refrigerator and consume it within a few weeks.

Variations
If you want to add an extra note, you can add a few mint leaves or a vanilla pod to the hot syrup. This will create an aromatic and fresh flavor that will delight your taste buds.

Personal note
This recipe was passed down to me by my grandmother, who in turn learned it from her mother. The memories of the smell of fresh cherries and boiling syrup fill my soul with joy. I encourage you to share this recipe with your loved ones and create unforgettable memories around the table.

I hope you enjoy every drop of this cherry syrup and use it to bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones! Cooking is about love and creativity, so experiment and adapt the recipe to suit your tastes.