Mint syrup

Homemade Mint Syrup – A Delicious Refreshment for Warm Days

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 60 minutes
Number of servings: 500 ml (approximately 5 servings)

The history of mint syrup spans several centuries, with deep roots in the culinary traditions of many cultures. Used both as an ingredient in refreshing drinks and as a natural sweetener, mint syrup is a perfect companion for summer days, but also for winter, bringing a touch of freshness and the energy of natural flavors. Let's discover together how to prepare this delicious syrup, which can be used in various combinations, from drinks to desserts!

Necessary ingredients:

- 100 g fresh mint leaves (about 5 long sprigs, the more leaves, the more intense the flavor)
- 500 g sugar
- 800 ml water
- Juice from 1 lemon
- 2 drops of green food coloring (optional, for a vibrant appearance)

Preparation:

1. Preparing the mint leaves
The first step in making mint syrup is to gather fresh mint leaves. Choose green, juicy leaves without spots to ensure the syrup will have an intense flavor. Wash the leaves well under a stream of cold water to remove any impurities. After washing, let them drain on a clean kitchen towel.

2. Boiling the sugar
In a large pot, add 800 ml of water and 500 g of sugar. Place the pot over medium heat and stir constantly until the sugar completely dissolves in the water. This process takes about 15-20 minutes. It is essential to stir occasionally to prevent the sugar from caramelizing.

3. Adding the mint
Once the sugar has dissolved, add the mint leaves to the hot syrup. Let the mixture boil for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The flavors will begin to reveal themselves, and the syrup will take on a wonderful mint aroma.

4. Straining the mint
After 20 minutes, remove the pot from the heat and strain the mint leaves using a fine sieve. This step is important to obtain a clear and aromatic syrup, without bits of leaves in it.

5. Reducing the syrup
Put the syrup back on the heat and let it boil for another 20 minutes to concentrate and intensify the flavors. This process will improve the syrup's consistency and make the mint flavor even more pronounced.

6. Finalizing the syrup
Once the syrup has boiled for a total of 60 minutes, it's time to add the lemon juice. This will not only provide a balanced taste but will also help preserve the syrup. If desired, you can now add the 2 drops of green food coloring to give it a vibrant hue. The syrup can be left without coloring, but it will have a lighter color.

7. Bottling the syrup
Pour the hot syrup into clean, sterilized bottles. It is recommended to use glass bottles with lids to maintain freshness. You can sterilize the bottles either by boiling or washing them in the dishwasher at high temperatures. Once filled, let the bottles cool to room temperature.

Serving suggestions:

Mint syrup can be used in various ways. For example, you can add it to sparkling water for a refreshing drink or combine it with freshly squeezed orange juice for a delicious summer cocktail. Additionally, I recommend using it as a topping for ice cream or yogurt, bringing a touch of freshness and an unmistakable flavor.

Frequently asked questions:

1. How long can mint syrup be stored?
If stored properly, mint syrup can be used for up to a year. Make sure the bottles are tightly closed and stored in a cool, dark place.

2. Can I use dried mint?
Although fresh mint leaves provide the best flavor, you can also use dried mint. Use about a third of the amount of dried mint, as the flavor is more concentrated.

3. How can I use mint syrup in other recipes?
Mint syrup can be added to various cocktails, lemonades, or even desserts like cakes or mousses. It is a versatile ingredient that brings a touch of freshness to any recipe.

Nutritional benefits:

Mint syrup, being rich in natural flavors, adds a burst of taste without requiring the addition of preservatives or chemical additives. Mint has digestive properties, helping to relieve gastric discomfort and providing a cooling sensation. Additionally, lemon is an excellent source of vitamin C, which supports the immune system.

Possible variations:

To give your mint syrup a personal touch, you can experiment with various infusions. For example, add a few basil or rosemary leaves for a more complex flavor. You can also replace some of the sugar with honey or agave syrup for a healthier version.

So, I invite you to try this simple mint syrup recipe, which will bring freshness and flavor to every summer day! Enjoy it with family and friends, bringing a touch of joy to the moments spent together. Bon appétit!