Strawberry syrup

Delicious strawberry syrup – a simple recipe for a quick dessert

If you are a fruit syrup lover, there is nothing more delightful than enjoying the intense aroma of fresh strawberries transformed into a delicious syrup, perfect for sweetening desserts or flavoring drinks. This strawberry syrup recipe is not only easy to make, but it will also bring you the joy of using natural ingredients, without preservatives.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Maceration time: 12 hours
Boiling time: 10 minutes
Total time: 12 hours and 25 minutes
Number of servings: 1 liter of syrup

A brief history of fruit syrup

Fruit syrups have been prepared throughout history in various cultures, as a method of preserving fruits and adding a touch of sweetness to different dishes. Regardless of the culture, syrups have been used to sweeten drinks, accompany desserts, or even as a special ingredient in savory dishes. Today, making syrups at home is becoming increasingly popular, with the advantage of controlling ingredients and achieving an authentic taste.

Necessary ingredients

- 1 kg strawberries (cleaned, without stems)
- 500 g fructose (or 1 kg sugar, according to preference)
- 1 packet of citric acid (about 10 g)
- 1 packet of gelfix 1:1 (about 30 g)
- 1 liter boiled and cooled water

Step by step: How to prepare strawberry syrup

1. Preparing the strawberries: Start by washing the strawberries well under running water. Make sure to remove the stems. The strawberries should be fresh and blemish-free for an intense flavor.

2. Macerating the strawberries: Place the cleaned strawberries in a large bowl and add the water and citric acid. Gently mix to avoid crushing the strawberries. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it sit in the refrigerator overnight. This step is essential for the flavors to develop.

3. Straining the juice: The next day, take a cheesecloth or fine sieve and strain the juice from the strawberries. Use a spoon to gently press the strawberries and extract as much juice as possible. You will obtain a fragrant liquid, full of the essence of strawberries.

4. Preparing the syrup: In the filtered juice, add the gelfix mixed with the two tablespoons of fructose. Mix well, then place everything over medium heat. Wait for it to start boiling.

5. Adding fructose: Once the juice has started boiling, add the remaining fructose. Continue boiling the mixture for 2 minutes, stirring constantly to avoid lumps forming.

6. Filling the bottles: When the syrup has boiled, carefully pour it into sterilized bottles, ensuring no air bubbles remain. You can use a funnel to facilitate this process.

7. Cooling and storing: Close the bottles and let them cool to room temperature, then store them in the refrigerator. The syrup can be kept for several months, but it is so delicious that it probably won't last that long!

Useful tips and variations

- Choosing strawberries: Use seasonal strawberries, which are more fragrant and sweeter. If you want a unique flavor, you can combine strawberries with other fruits, such as raspberries or blueberries.
- Using the syrup: This strawberry syrup is perfect for sweetening yogurt, making lemonade, or being added to cocktails. You can also use the syrup to top ice cream or pancakes.
- Tricks for a thicker syrup: If you prefer a thicker syrup, you can add more gelfix or boil the syrup longer. However, be careful not to boil it too much to avoid caramelizing the sugar.
- Seasonal labels: Don’t forget to label the bottles with the preparation date and ingredients, especially if you are giving them as gifts. It always looks better!

Nutritional benefits

Strawberries are rich in vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants, making them a healthy choice for your desserts. Fructose is a sweeter alternative with a lower glycemic index than sugar, but moderate consumption is always recommended.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use sugar instead of fructose?
Yes, you can use sugar, but keep in mind that the syrup will have a slightly different taste, and the required amount will be double.

2. Can I freeze the syrup?
Although the syrup keeps well in the refrigerator, I do not recommend freezing it, as the texture may be affected.

3. What is the shelf life of strawberry syrup?
If stored properly, the syrup can last for several months in the refrigerator.

Serving suggestions

For a truly delicious experience, try serving the strawberry syrup with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or with fluffy pancakes. Also, a refreshing lemonade with strawberry syrup will surely be a hit on hot summer days.

Conclusion

Making strawberry syrup at home is not only a pleasant activity but also an excellent way to enjoy the sweet and aromatic taste of strawberries at any time of the year. With this simple and easy-to-follow recipe, you will manage to obtain a delicious syrup that will bring a touch of happiness to every dessert or drink. Try it and let yourself be carried away by its aroma!