Basil simple syrup is a flexible condiment to have on hand. In this simple syrup recipe, I have used turbinado sugar (raw cane sugar). The less processed sugar maintains some of the original nutrients of the plant & naturally adding color to the syrup, making it a better choice. While I used a mixture of sweet and cinnamon basil in my syrup, since they were growing in my garden, but any basil would work fine (I bet lime basil would be yummy). Basil syrup can be used to make an interesting soda, and is an excellent addition to fruit salad. It is also handy for glazing meats, adding both color and sweetness tempered with herbal flavor.
I kept the recipe super simple here, but add flavoring to suit your personal tastes. Orange peel, vanilla bean, peach and ginger are favorite simple syrups of mine, and several of those would go well with basil or other sweet herbs. These blends make excellent natural soda syrups.
- 1 cup water
- ½ cup turbinado sugar (raw cane sugar)
- 2 dozen fresh basil leaves*
- pinch of salt
- Add all the ingredients into sauce pan and bring to boil.
- Boil while frequently stirring until reduced by half.
- Pour into small glass container and allow to cool before using.
Sounds delish and it seems easy enough to make. I like soups in the winter, so I will have to give this a try once the weather gets a little colder.
Another basil recipe, thanks for sharing, I may just try this!