Lemon syrup

Lemon Syrup: A Flavorful Delight for Your Tea

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Resting Time: 24 hours
Number of Servings: 1 jar (approximately 500 ml)

Lemon syrup is a true treasure for tea lovers and beyond. This sweet and tangy syrup is perfect for sweetening hot beverages, adding a splash of freshness to desserts, or even giving a unique flavor to salads. The history of lemon syrup dates back to ancient times, being a traditional way to preserve the citrus aroma. This simple and delicious syrup can become the perfect companion on warm summer days or cool winter evenings. Let’s get started!

Ingredients

- 2 fresh lemons
- A few tablespoons of sugar (approximately 200-250 g, depending on personal preferences)

Necessary Utensils

- A glass jar with a lid (approximately 500 ml)
- A sharp knife
- A cutting board
- A measuring spoon
- A spatula or wooden spoon

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Wash the Lemons: Start by thoroughly washing the lemons under cold running water. This step is essential to remove any pesticide residues or wax that may be present on the skin. Dry them with a clean towel.

2. Slice the Lemons: Using a sharp knife, cut the lemons into thin slices, about 5 mm thick. If you prefer, you can remove the seeds, but it is not strictly necessary, as they do not affect the syrup's taste.

3. Prepare the Jar: Take the clean and dry jar and prepare it to receive the lemon slices. Make sure the jar is large enough to hold all the lemon slices and sugar.

4. Layering Lemon and Sugar: Place a slice of lemon in the jar, then sprinkle a thin layer of sugar on top. Continue this way, alternating between lemon slices and sugar, until the jar is almost full. It is important to ensure that each lemon slice is covered with sugar, as it will extract the juice from the lemon and create the syrup.

5. Refrigerate: Once the jar is full, close the lid tightly and place it in the refrigerator. Here, the sugar will begin to dissolve in the lemon juice, creating a delicious syrup. Wait 24 hours before using it to allow the flavors to develop.

6. Use the Syrup: After 24 hours, your lemon syrup is ready! You can use it to sweeten tea by adding a few tablespoons of syrup to your favorite hot beverage. You can also use it as a dressing for salads, adding a fresh flavor, or in desserts preparation.

Practical Tips

- Choosing Lemons: Choose fresh, firm lemons with shiny skin, free from spots or imperfections. Organic lemons are an excellent choice as they do not contain pesticides.

- Sugar: You can experiment with different types of sugar. Brown sugar will give the syrup a caramelized hue, while white sugar will maintain a purer lemon flavor.

- Storage: The syrup can be kept in the refrigerator for up to a month, but I recommend consuming it as soon as possible to enjoy its maximum freshness.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits

Per serving (approximately 30 ml of syrup):
- Calories: 80 kcal
- Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Sugar: 20 g

Lemon syrup is a source of vitamin C, essential for the immune system. Additionally, lemons have antioxidant properties and can help detoxify the body.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen lemons?
It is not recommended, as frozen lemons change their texture and juice. Always use fresh lemons for the best result.

2. What can I do with the leftover syrup?
The syrup can be used to sweeten lemonade, cocktails, or even as a topping for ice cream.

3. Can I add other ingredients?
Absolutely! You can add a few slices of fresh ginger between the lemons for a spicy kick or a few mint leaves for a refreshing aroma.

Possible Variations

To add a personal touch to your lemon syrup recipe, you can try including:

- Flavorings: Vanilla, lavender, or rosemary can transform the syrup into a unique delicacy.
- Added fruits: Slices of orange or grapefruit can be added alongside lemons for a more complex flavor.

Serving

To enjoy the lemon syrup, I recommend serving it with green or black tea, adding a few ice cubes in a glass. You can garnish the drink with freshly sliced lemon or a sprig of mint for an elegant touch. This syrup is also fantastic when mixed with sparkling water, creating a natural and refreshing lemonade.

In conclusion, lemon syrup is a simple and versatile recipe, perfect for adding a splash of freshness and sweetness to your favorite drinks. Enjoy this delicious syrup and remember that each sip is a step towards a sweeter moment!