Mother’s Day Gift Idea: Trio of Flavored Syrups
Mother’s Day is less than a week away. I don’t know about you, but it seems that every year I struggle to think of what to give for Mother’s Day. My mom has most of what she needs and even wants (and she says she has enough jam).
For the next three days, I’ll be posting a series of Mother’s Day crafts. First up, is a trio of favored simply syrups in reused bottles. The syrups are quick to make and can be used to flavor iced tea, cocktails, or even coffee and other hot beverages.
I made ginger, lime, and lemon-mint syrups, but you could use any herb (lavender, rosemary, thyme, etc.), citrus, berry, or even spice (cinnamon, clove, nutmeg, etc) to flavor your syrup.
Basic Simple Syrup
makes 1 cup
1 cup sugar
½ cup water
Combine sugar and water in a small saucepan and place over low heat. Stir occasionally until the sugar dissolves. When sugar is dissolved, cover and simmer for about 10 minutes. Cool and refrigerate. Simple syrup will last for quite a long time in the refrigerator.
For citrus syrup:
Use basic simple syrup recipe, but add the zest of 2 lemons, limes, or other citrus with the water and sugar. Take off heat and allow the ingredients to steep for another 10-20 minutes. Strain and let cool.
For herb syrup:
Use basic simple syrup recipe, but add a small bunch of lavender, mint, rosemary, thyme, or lemon verbena to the syrup once the sugar dissolves, then cover and simmer for 10 minutes. Strain the syrup when cool.
For spiced syrup:
Use basic simple syrup recipe. When the syrup is done, remove from heat and add: 1 ½ teaspoons whole cloves, 4 cinnamon sticks, or a 2-inch piece of fresh ginger, thinly sliced. Cover and let sit for 20 minutes, then strain.
I didn't let my lemon-mint or ginger syrups steep as much and they needed (I've adjusted the recipes above to make up for this), and will likely reheat them and try again. Last summer I made lemon-thyme syrup that was wonderfully flavorful, and even became slightly colored by the lemon peel. These recipes are easily adjustible to taste, and are very forgiving.
Place a bow around the syrup bottles, add a card and a date for tea or lunch and enjoy the day with a mother you love--perfect.
