Mint syrup at home

Step-by-step cooking

1. Step 1:

   

   How to cook mint syrup at home? Prepare the products. Mint is desirable to take freshly picked, and in dry weather. Mint for syrup is suitable for any, but the strongest flavor is given by menthol varieties.

2. Step 2:

   

   Separate the mint leaves from the stems, the stems are too coarse, they won't be needed. Wash the leaves, let the water drain and dry on a paper towel in one layer. Excess water will make the syrup more liquid than necessary. It will be very convenient to use a special dryer for greenery.

3. Step 3:

   

   Fold the leaves into a stainless steel pan with a thick bottom.

4. Step 4:

   

   Pour granulated sugar into a saucepan with mint leaves. Sugar can take not only plain white, but also cane or brown. The last two will give the syrup a yellowish color and a subtle caramel note. But it all depends on your taste.

5. Step 5:

   

   Pour water into a saucepan with sugar and mint. Take the water purified through a filter or bought in a store. This will allow the mint flavor to open up more, as the water is softer. Put on medium heat and bring to a boil.

7. Step 6:

   

   As soon as the mass boils, pour in citric acid. This will not only improve the taste, but also prevent the syrup from crystallizing. Instead of citric acid, you can add lemon juice, but keep in mind that this may slightly interrupt the menthol flavor.

8. Step 7:

   

   After the citric acid is added, reduce the heat to low and cook the syrup for 4-5 minutes at a slow boil.

9. Step 8:

   

   Remove the pan with mint syrup from the heat and strain through a fine sieve. Pour into clean, dry jars and close with clean lids. After cooling, remove to a dark, cool place. If you want the color of the syrup to be green, add a little green food coloring. Of course, it's not very useful, but it looks quite natural and beautiful.

10. Step 9:

    

    This syrup, if diluted a little, can be used as a sponge cake impregnation. Add it to cooked tea, make syrup-based cocktails or add it to desserts. Enjoy your meal!