Making simple syrup is a skill that every aspiring mixologist should have in their arsenal. It's a basic ingredient that adds sweetness and balance to countless cocktails. The ratio for making simple syrup is incredibly simple – it's just a 1:1 ratio of water to sugar. This means that for every part of water, you'll need an equal part of sugar.
To make the simple syrup, all you need to do is combine the water and sugar in a saucepan. I usually opt for a medium-sized saucepan, as it gives me enough room to stir without the risk of the mixture boiling over. You can also use a small saucepan if that's what you have on hand.
Next, you'll want to heat the water and sugar over low heat. This helps to speed up the dissolving process and ensures that the sugar fully incorporates into the water. I find that gently heating the mixture also helps to create a smooth and clear simple syrup.
As the heat warms the mixture, you'll notice that the sugar begins to dissolve. It's important to stir the mixture occasionally to help the sugar fully incorporate into the water. This typically takes just a few minutes, but it can vary depending on the amount of syrup you're making.
Once the sugar has completely dissolved, you can remove the saucepan from the heat. At this point, your simple syrup is ready to be used in your favorite cocktails. You can let it cool in the saucepan before transferring it to a glass jar or bottle for storage. I find that a mason jar works perfectly for this purpose.
If you're in a hurry and don't have time to heat the water and sugar on the stovetop, you can also make simple syrup by shaking the water and sugar together vigorously in a container. This method may take a bit longer for the sugar to fully dissolve, but it's a convenient option when you're short on time.
One thing to note is that simple syrup can be made with different types of sugar, depending on your preference or the specific cocktail you're making. While the classic recipe calls for white granulated sugar, you can experiment with other types such as brown sugar, demerara sugar, or even honey. Each type of sugar will bring its own unique flavor profile to the simple syrup, so don't be afraid to get creative!
Making simple syrup is a breeze with a 1:1 ratio of water to sugar. Whether you choose to heat the mixture on the stovetop or shake it together, you'll end up with a versatile ingredient that adds sweetness and balance to your favorite cocktails. So go ahead, give it a try, and elevate your mixology game!