Strawberry syrup

Homemade Strawberry Syrup – A Sweet Delight for All Seasons

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooling time: 1-2 days
Total time: 1-2 days (but worth every moment!)
Number of servings: 5 bottles of 330 ml

Welcome to the wonderful world of syrups! Today, I will share with you a simple yet flavorful recipe: strawberry syrup. This sweet and aromatic syrup is perfect for adding a touch of freshness to drinks, desserts, or even enjoying it on its own, diluted with sparkling water. Strawberries, these wonderful fruits, are not only delicious but also packed with vitamins and antioxidants. So, let’s get inspired by nature and create this amazing syrup together!

Ingredients:
- 4 kg of fresh strawberries (choose well-ripened strawberries with an intense fragrance)
- 2 kg of sugar (preferably white sugar for a clear syrup color)

Necessary utensils:
- A large pot for boiling
- A wooden spatula or a whisk
- Glass bottles with caps (5 bottles of 330 ml)
- A strainer and cheesecloth or a coffee filter (optional but recommended)

Preparation steps:
1. Preparing the strawberries:
Start by washing the strawberries thoroughly under cold running water. Make sure to carefully remove the stems and any impurities. This step is essential to obtain a clean and aromatic syrup.

2. Mixing with sugar:
In a large container, add the cleaned strawberries and evenly sprinkle them with sugar. Gently mix with a wooden spatula so that the sugar distributes evenly. Cover the container and let it chill in the refrigerator for 24 hours. It is important to stir the mixture occasionally so that the sugar dissolves completely and the strawberries release their juice.

3. Preparing the syrup:
After 24 hours, you will notice that the strawberries have released a lot of juice. Remove the strawberries from the obtained syrup (you can use this fruit to make a delicious jam or even freeze it for later use).

4. Boiling the syrup:
Straining the syrup is an optional step, but recommended for a smooth texture. If you decide to strain it, use a fine strainer or cheesecloth. Place the syrup in the large pot over medium heat. Let it boil for 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking to the bottom of the pot.

5. Bottling:
Once the syrup has boiled, it’s time to pour it into the prepared bottles. Use a funnel to make this task easier. Ensure that the bottles are cleaned and sterilized before use. Close the caps tightly.

6. Cooling:
Wrap the bottles in a thick blanket and let them cool for 1-2 days. This step helps the syrup to stabilize and develop its flavors.

Serving suggestions:
This strawberry syrup is extremely versatile. You can dilute it with sparkling water and add ice cubes for a refreshing drink on hot summer days. It is also delicious on yogurt, pancakes, or ice cream. If you want a more sophisticated touch, try adding it to cocktails or alcoholic beverages.

Nutritional benefits:
Strawberries are rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory compounds. Consuming strawberries can help improve heart health and boost the immune system. They are also low in calories, making them an excellent choice for those looking to maintain their weight.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other fruits to make syrup?
Absolutely! This recipe can be adapted for other fruits such as raspberries, blueberries, or peaches.

2. How can I keep the syrup for a longer time?
Store it in a cool, dark place. Once opened, it’s best to keep it in the refrigerator.

3. Why is it important to sterilize the bottles?
Sterilizing the bottles helps prevent contamination of the syrup and extends its shelf life.

4. Can I sweeten the syrup less?
Of course! You can reduce the amount of sugar to your liking, but keep in mind that sugar helps preserve the syrup.

Possible variations:
If you want to add a special note to the syrup, try adding a few mint leaves or a slice of lemon during boiling. These flavors will provide a fresh and invigorating taste.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that’s left is to enjoy this homemade strawberry syrup! It’s a simple yet extremely satisfying recipe, perfect for sharing with loved ones. Let’s enjoy the natural flavors of summer together, no matter the season!