Cherry syrup

Cherry Syrup – A sweet and tangy delight, perfect for warm days!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Waiting time: 12-24 hours
Boiling time: 5 minutes
Total: 12-24 hours and 20 minutes
Servings: Approximately 6 bottles of 500 ml

Introduction
Cherry syrup is a delicacy that combines sweet flavor with a slight tang, having a rich history in the preparation of various beverages and desserts. From being a staple ingredient in refreshing drinks to a perfect accompaniment for ice cream or pancakes, cherry syrup is a versatile and flavorful choice. Additionally, cherries are rich in antioxidants and vitamins, making them a healthy option!

Ingredients
- 2 kg pitted cherries
- 2 l boiled and cooled water
- 2 packets of Gelfix 1:1 Dr. Oetker
- 1 packet of citric acid
- 1.2 kg fructose (or 2.5 kg sugar)

Preparation Technique

Step 1: Preparing the cherries
Start by pitting the cherries. This can be a bit time-consuming, but it's worth the effort! Make sure to choose ripe, quality cherries, as they will give the syrup a more intense flavor. After pitting, wash the cherries well under cold running water.

Step 2: Marinating the cherries
Place the cherries in a large bowl. Add the boiled and cooled water along with the citric acid. This is an essential step as the citric acid will help preserve the vibrant color and enhance the flavor. Cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap and let it sit in the refrigerator overnight. This marination will allow the flavors to develop.

Step 3: Straining the juice
The next day, strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or fine sieve, squeezing the cherries well to extract all the juice. This is when the true cherry flavor will shine!

Step 4: Preparing the syrup
In the strained juice, add the contents of the Gelfix packets, previously mixed with 4 tablespoons of fructose (or sugar). Make sure to mix well to avoid lumps. Place the mixture over medium heat and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, add the remaining fructose (or sugar) and let it boil for 5 minutes. This process will help thicken the syrup.

Step 5: Bottling
Once the syrup is ready, pour it immediately into clean, dry bottles, leaving a little space at the top. It is important that the bottles are clean to prevent contamination. Seal the lid tightly and allow them to cool.

Step 6: Diluting
Cherry syrup can be diluted with cold water to taste. It’s perfect for enjoying on warm days, added to flavored waters or even in cocktails!

Practical Tips
- You can experiment with other types of sweeteners, such as honey or stevia, adapting the recipe to your preferences.
- If you want a more concentrated syrup, you can reduce the amount of water or add more cherries.
- For an even more intense flavor, try adding a few mint or basil leaves during the boiling process.

Nutritional Values
Cherry syrup is rich in antioxidants, which help combat free radicals, and contains vitamins A, C, and K. Additionally, cherries are known for their anti-inflammatory properties and can contribute to improved sleep.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen cherries?
Yes, frozen cherries can be used, but make sure to thaw them before pitting.

2. How can I preserve the syrup longer?
Ensure that the bottles are completely clean and dry before filling them. Store the syrup in the refrigerator to extend its shelf life.

3. What can I do with cherry syrup?
You can use the syrup to make cocktails, add it to ice cream, pancakes, or even in sauces for meat.

Serving Suggestions
Cherry syrup is delicious when served with sparkling water, ice, and a slice of lemon. You can also add a tablespoon of syrup to your favorite yogurt or use the syrup in tart, cake, or mousse recipes.

Recipe Variations
If you want to add a twist to your cherry syrup recipe, you can experiment with:
- Adding spices like cinnamon or cloves for a more exotic taste.
- Combining cherries with other fruits like cherries or raspberries for a colorful and flavorful syrup.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that’s left is to start cooking! Cherry syrup will quickly become your favorite, as well as your family’s. Enjoy the preparation process and the delicious final result!