Strawberry syrup with mint

Strawberry Mint Syrup

Who doesn't love the enticing aroma of fresh strawberries, especially when combined with the refreshing notes of mint? This strawberry mint syrup is a delicacy that will transform your mornings, desserts, or refreshing drinks into a memorable experience. It's a simple recipe but with a spectacular result, perfect to be enjoyed during the summer or as a special gift for loved ones. Let's embark together on the preparation of this delicious syrup!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Resting time: 1-2 days
Total time: 1-2 days (depending on resting period)
Number of servings: Depends on the final quantity

Ingredients:
- 5 kg fresh strawberries
- Sugar (approximately 1 kg + 700 g, depending on the amount of juice obtained)
- 1 lemon (juice)
- A few sprigs of fresh mint

Necessary utensils:
- A double-bottom stainless steel pot
- A ladle
- Clean bottles with airtight caps
- A strainer or fine sieve

Brief history:
Fruit syrups have been made for centuries, being an excellent way to preserve fruits and use them even outside their season. Strawberries have been valued not only for their sweet taste but also for their nutritional benefits, being rich in vitamins and antioxidants. Their combination with mint provides not only a wonderful flavor but also a note of freshness that revitalizes.

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Prepare the strawberries: Wash the strawberries well under a stream of cold water. Remove the stems and cut them in half or quarters, depending on their size. This step is essential to allow the strawberries to release their juice during the cooking process.

2. Mix with sugar: Place the cleaned strawberries in a double-bottom stainless steel pot and sprinkle 1 kg of sugar over them. Cover the pot and let the strawberries sit for 3-4 hours. During this time, the fruits will start to release their juice, and the mixture will become liquid.

3. Boil the mixture: Place the pot over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Let it boil for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You will notice how the strawberries break down and turn into a delicious syrup.

4. Separate the liquid: Use a ladle to collect the liquid part of the mixture into another stainless steel container. This syrup will be the base for your strawberry syrup. The amount of syrup obtained will determine the amount of additional sugar you will add.

5. Sweeten the syrup: After separating the liquid part, measure the amount of syrup obtained and add 700 g of sugar for each kilogram of strawberry juice. Stir well until the sugar completely dissolves.

6. Add lemon and mint: Squeeze the juice from a fresh lemon into your mixture. This will not only add a pleasant flavor but will also help preserve the syrup. Add a few sprigs of fresh mint for an extra aroma. Mix everything again.

7. Bottle it: Pour the hot syrup into clean bottles, ensuring they are airtight. Cover them with caps and let them rest in a warm place (wrapped in blankets or comforters) for 1-2 days. This step will help the syrup stabilize and reveal its flavor.

Serving suggestions:
Strawberry mint syrup is perfect for adding to sparkling water or lemonade, transforming them into refreshing drinks. You can also use it as a topping for ice cream, pancakes, or waffles. Another idea is to add it to your favorite yogurt for a healthy and sweet breakfast.

Possible variations:
- Strawberry Basil Syrup: Replace mint with fresh basil for a surprising flavor.
- Spicy Strawberry Syrup: Add a few slices of chili pepper during boiling for a spicy taste.

Frequently asked questions:
- Why should I use sugar? Sugar not only sweetens the syrup but also acts as a natural preservative. The more sugar, the better the syrup will preserve.
- Can I add other fruits? Absolutely! You can experiment with other berries, such as raspberries or blackberries, to create delicious combinations.

Nutritional benefits:
Strawberries are rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber, making them a healthy choice. Mint adds a touch of freshness and has digestive properties.

In conclusion, making this strawberry mint syrup is a pleasant and rewarding activity that will fill your home with wonderful aromas. So, don't hesitate to try this simple recipe and enjoy every drop of sweetness!