Pandan syrup, also known as screwpine syrup, is a delightful ingredient commonly used in Southeast Asian cuisine and beverages. It is made from pandan leaves, which are known for their unique aroma and flavor. Pandan syrup adds a fragrant and sweet touch to dishes and drinks, making it a popular choice for many recipes.
To make pandan syrup, you will need three key ingredients: pandan leaves, water, and granulated sugar.
1. Pandan leaves: The star ingredient of pandan syrup is the pandan leaves themselves. These leaves come from the pandan plant, scientifically known as Pandanus amaryllifolius. Pandan leaves have a vibrant green color and a distinct fragrance that is often described as floral and slightly nutty. They are commonly used in Southeast Asian cooking to add flavor and aroma to various dishes. Pandan leaves can be found in some grocery stores, but if they are not available fresh, you can also use frozen pandan leaves. Simply chop the leaves into 1″ pieces if your blender isn't super high-powered.
2. Water: The next ingredient you need is water, which is used to extract the flavors and aromas from the pandan leaves. The water acts as a base for creating the syrup and helps to infuse the pandan flavor into the liquid. The amount of water needed will depend on the quantity of pandan leaves you are using and the desired consistency of your syrup.
3. Granulated sugar: you will need granulated sugar to sweeten the syrup. The amount of sugar required can vary depending on personal preference and the level of sweetness desired. You can use regular granulated sugar or cane sugar for a slightly different flavor profile. It's important to note that pandan syrup is typically quite sweet, so you may want to adjust the amount of sugar based on your taste preferences.
Now, let's talk about the process of making pandan syrup. Start by blending the chopped pandan leaves with water in a blender or food processor until you have a smooth mixture. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove any solid particles and extract the liquid. Measure the amount of liquid obtained and transfer it to a saucepan.
To make the syrup, add an equal amount of granulated sugar to the pandan liquid in the saucepan. For example, if you have 1 cup of pandan liquid, add 1 cup of sugar. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar has completely dissolved. Continue to cook the syrup for a few more minutes until it thickens slightly.
Once the syrup has reached your desired consistency, remove it from the heat and let it cool. Store the pandan syrup in a sterilized bottle or jar in the refrigerator for up to a few weeks.
Pandan syrup can be used in a variety of ways. It is commonly used as a sweetener and flavoring agent in desserts, such as cakes, puddings, and ice cream. It can also be added to beverages like cocktails, smoothies, and teas to add a delightful aroma and sweetness.
Pandan syrup is made from pandan leaves, water, and granulated sugar. The leaves are blended with water to extract their flavors and aromas, and the resulting liquid is sweetened with sugar to create the syrup. Pandan syrup adds a unique and fragrant touch to various dishes and beverages, making it a versatile ingredient in Southeast Asian cuisine. So, go ahead and give it a try in your next recipe for a taste of the exotic and aromatic pandan flavor!