Ginger syrup with citrus and mint

Ginger Syrup with Citrus and Mint: A Refreshing Indulgence

Celebrate summer with a drink that combines the freshness of citrus fruits with the invigorating flavor of ginger and mint! This ginger syrup with citrus and mint is not just a recipe, but a sensory experience that turns every sip into an unforgettable pleasure. Ideal for hot days, but also for a boost of energy on cool winter evenings, this syrup is perfect to be enjoyed at any time of the year.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Infusion time: 20 minutes
Number of servings: 10 servings (approximately 1 liter of syrup)

Ingredients

- 4 juicy oranges
- 4 fresh lemons
- 3 aromatic grapefruits
- 400 grams of fresh ginger
- 2 bunches of fresh mint
- 1 kg sugar
- 400 ml water
- 1 teaspoon lemon salt

A Bit of History

Fruit syrups have been used for centuries, often as natural remedies for hydrating and revitalizing the body. Ginger, known for its anti-inflammatory and digestive properties, enhances not only the flavor but also the health benefits. Combined with citrus fruits, which are rich in vitamin C, this syrup becomes a true summer elixir.

Step by Step

1. Preparing the inverted sugar: In a saucepan, add 400 ml of water, 1 kg of sugar, and 1 teaspoon of lemon salt. Mix well and bring to a boil. Let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sugar is completely dissolved. This step is essential for creating a denser and more flavorful syrup.

2. Washing and juicing the citrus: Wash the oranges, lemons, and grapefruits well under cold running water. Use a citrus juicer to extract the juice from each fruit. Make sure no seeds remain in the juice, as they can add a bitter taste.

3. Preparing the ginger: Peel the ginger and grate it on a fine grater. I recommend using a glass grater, which is easier to handle and provides a finer texture.

4. Combining the ingredients: Once the inverted sugar is ready, reduce the heat to low and add the citrus juice and grated ginger. Be careful! Add them slowly, as the mixture will foam and could burn you. Cover the saucepan with a lid to prevent splattering and let it simmer for 5-10 minutes.

5. Infusing the mint: Take the two bunches of fresh mint and remove the leaves from the stems. Add the mint to the saucepan, stir gently, and cover again. Let the mixture infuse for 15-20 minutes. The more mint you use, the more intense the flavor will be!

6. Straining the syrup: After the infusion period, use a fine sieve or cheesecloth to strain the syrup into a clean bottle. Make sure to squeeze the mint well to extract all the flavor. The syrup can be stored in the refrigerator for a few weeks.

Serving and Suggestions

This ginger syrup with citrus and mint is delicious mixed with sparkling water or still water. Serve it over ice in a refreshing glass, add a few fresh mint leaves, and a slice of lemon or orange for an attractive look. Imagine enjoying this refreshing drink while relaxing in a hammock, under the shade of trees, or by the sea... a dream come true!

Tips and Variations

- Vary the flavors: Experiment with other herbs, such as basil or rosemary, to give the syrup a different note.
- Use other citrus: If you don't have grapefruits, you can substitute with limes or mandarins for a different flavor.
- Mixed drinks: Use the syrup as a base for cocktails. Add a little gin or vodka and a few ice cubes for a summer cocktail.

Nutritional Benefits

This syrup not only offers a delicious taste but also health benefits. Ginger is known for its anti-inflammatory and digestive properties, while citrus fruits are an excellent source of vitamin C, which supports the immune system. Mint adds not only flavor but also a calming effect on the digestive system.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use brown sugar?: Yes, brown sugar will add a caramelized note to the syrup, but the final result will be darker in color.
- How can I store the syrup longer?: Keep the syrup in a well-sealed glass bottle in the refrigerator. You can also freeze it in ice cube trays for later use.
- Can I use dried ginger?: It is recommended to use fresh ginger for a vibrant taste; however, in an emergency, dried ginger can be used in a smaller ratio, considering it is much more concentrated.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that’s left is to get to work! Preparing this ginger syrup with citrus and mint will become a delightful ritual that will pamper you throughout the summer. Enjoy every sip and share the joy with your loved ones!