Bar syrup, also known as simple syrup, is a fundamental ingredient in many cocktails and beverages. It is a sweetener that is used to balance and enhance the flavors of the drink. The basic recipe for bar syrup is quite simple, consisting of just two ingredients: sugar and water.
The most common type of bar syrup is made with a 1:1 ratio of sugar to water. This means that equal parts of sugar and water are used to make the syrup. The sugar used is typically white granulated sugar, which dissolves easily in water. The water can be either tap water or filtered water, depending on personal preference.
To make the bar syrup, the sugar and water are combined in a saucepan and heated over medium heat. The mixture is stirred until the sugar is completely dissolved, creating a clear liquid. Once the sugar is dissolved, the syrup is removed from heat and allowed to cool before transferring it to a bottle or container for storage.
Another variation of bar syrup is known as rich simple syrup, which is made with a 2:1 ratio of sugar to water. This creates a thicker and sweeter syrup compared to the regular 1:1 ratio. Rich simple syrup is often used in cocktails that require a stronger sweetness or a thicker consistency, such as Old Fashioned or Mai Tai.
Demerara syrup is a type of rich simple syrup that is made with demerara sugar, which is a type of raw cane sugar with a rich, molasses-like flavor. This syrup has a deeper and more complex flavor profile compared to regular bar syrup. Demerara syrup is often used in cocktails that benefit from the hint of molasses, such as Dark and Stormy or Rum Punch.
I have personally experimented with different types of bar syrup in my cocktail creations. While the regular 1:1 bar syrup is versatile and works well in most cocktails, I find that the rich simple syrup adds an extra level of sweetness and viscosity to certain drinks. The demerara syrup, with its distinct molasses flavor, adds depth and complexity to cocktails that call for it.
Bar syrup is made of a simple combination of sugar and water. The ratio of sugar to water can vary depending on the desired sweetness and consistency of the syrup. Whether it's the classic 1:1 ratio, the richer 2:1 ratio, or the flavorful demerara syrup, bar syrup plays a crucial role in balancing and enhancing the flavors of cocktails and beverages.