As summer reaches its end (*tear*), we know some of you are probably stuck with an excess of produce from your home garden. Yes you can pick the rest of your tomatoes and throw them into a salad, but what should you do with the remaining leftovers? Surely you can’t just let them freeze over and go to waste—especially your herbs.
These plants are a basic staple for a variety of drinks. From mojitos to mint juleps, herbs compliment many of the classic cocktails; their rich, earthy flavors flatter each drink’s subtle splash of sweetness. Still, herbs in their natural form won’t go very far, so why not spread the wealth and make your garden goodies last longer?
We introduce to you homemade herb-infused simple syrups, an easy way to preserve your herbs and savor them through out the season. All you need to do is combine water and sugar over heat and stir until the sugar dissolves. Next you’ll add your herb of choice and let it steep in the hot syrup, straining the mixture into a clean jar after a number of minutes. Finally, let the mixture sit covered in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
First up, Basil Simple Syrup, the ideal addition to a traditional gimlet.
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 packed fresh basil leaves
Follow the above directions but let steep in the hot syrup for 15 minutes.
Next we have Mint Simple Syrup, perfect for any daiquiri or tipsy iced tea.
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 3/4 packed fresh mint leaves
Let steep in the hot syrup for 15 minutes.
Last but certainly not least, Tarragon Simple Syrup, the ultimate touch to any gin-based cocktail.
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 6 large, fresh tarragon leaves
Let steep in the hot syrup for 20 minutes.
Have another herb-infused simple syrup recipe? Share it with us!