Instant Pot Basil Simple Syrup Recipe - Made With Just 4 Ingredients (2024)

FAQs

How to make long lasting simple syrup? ›

According to Camper English of Alcademics, the shelf life of simple syrup can be lengthened two ways: upping the ratio of sugar to water, or adding neutral spirit. The difference is surprising. Simple syrup (1:1 ratio of sugar to water) will only stay good for about a month.

Pour the syrup into a saucepan, then turn the burner on low. Bring the sauce to a low simmer and let it sit for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally so it doesn't burn. Leave the lid off so that some of the liquid can evaporate, which is what will cause the syrup to thicken.

Infused simple syrups are good for around three months, according to Saveur, although they also suggest giving the syrup a sniff test to make sure it still smells good. Syrups that incorporate juices or purees, however, will only last around two or three weeks.

If you're substituting simple syrup for granulated sugar in a drink recipe, the general rule is to use 1/4 ounce syrup for 1 teaspoon of sugar.

Instead of the traditional one part sugar to one part water, it calls for two parts sugar to one part water (2:1).

Simple syrup crystallizes when enough of the sugar molecules stick to one another that they become insoluble in the water. In a syrup prepared with a high 2:1 ratio of sugar to water (often referred to as a rich syrup), the chance of sugar molecules clustering and crystallizing is high.

Stir the simple syrup and place the saucepan over medium heat. By the time the edges start to simmer, the liquid should be completely clear, not cloudy. Immediately remove from the heat source.

Refrigerating simple syrup extends its shelf life and slows the future growth of bacteria. You can keep it at room temperature, but it will go bad much faster. If you plan use up it up within a few days, it can be stored at room temperature. Otherwise I highly recommend storing it in the fridge or freezer.

In a small pan, combine one part sugar and one part water. On medium heat, simmer together and stir until sugar is fully dissolved and there are no grains. Do not boil simple syrup for more than the time it takes to dissolve. It you overcook your syrup it will eventually become caramel.

Store it in the cleanest bottle you have, which you should always do. If you bottle syrup when it's still hot, the heat will sterilize the inside of the bottle and further prevent mold from growing for a very long time.

What is a substitute for rosemary simple syrup? ›

Replace rosemary with your favorite herbs to make other flavored syrups! Some delicious options are thyme, lavender or even citrus peels. Honey. If you'd like to use honey instead, substitute honey for the granulated sugar and heat the water until hot (not boiling) to dissolve it.

Always store your syrup in the fridge – or freezer!

Note that rich simple syrup, which contains twice as much sugar, will last for longer.

Syrup should only be used in moderation as part of a healthy diet because it is heavy in calories and sugar. The reason for this is that syrup is a concentrated source of sugar, and consuming a lot of sugar can lead to weight gain, cavities in the teeth, and other health problems.

Confectioner's sugar might not be the best since it has cornstarch which after boiling will make the syrup cloudy and more viscous.

As with any other food item, if not stored properly, the simple syrup will spoil eventually due to bacteria growth or mold. However, if stored correctly in an airtight container in a cool dry place away from direct sunlight, your homemade or store-bought simple syrup should last for several months without any issues.

PRESERVING SIMPLE SYRUP

Sodium Benzoate, a preservative, may be added to the simple syrup to extend the shelf life.

Keep your mixture at medium heat when mixing it in a saucepan on the stovetop. It doesn't need to boil. Using distilled water helps crystals from forming, however crystallization still happens if the simple syrup is placed in the fridge or if the 2 parts water to 1 part sweetener ratio isn't followed.

Store it in the cleanest bottle you have, which you should always do. If you bottle syrup when it's still hot, the heat will sterilize the inside of the bottle and further prevent mold from growing for a very long time.

Alcohol can help preserve the mixture and extend its shelf life. Add a neutral spirit, like vodka, to bring your syrup's alcohol-by-volume (abv) up to about 15% to create a syrup that will last at least a few months.