| Prep: 10 mins | Cook: 10 mins – 15 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 330 | 0g | 0g | 86g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 77g | 2g | 1g | 0.01g |
I’m super excited to share this vibrant and tantalizing fruit-based recipe, Woodruff Syrup for Cocktails. This recipe seems to embody everything I love about the dynamic fusion of Tex-Mex flavors that I grew up savoring, with a playful twist of whimsy and modern gourmet finesse.
Flavors of my Childhood, Reimagined
Taught from an early age to appreciate the robust and multifaceted flavors that are characteristic of Tex-Mex, I must confess that each recipe I share with you is a blend of personal nostalgia and professional innovation. Now, what does a Woodruff Syrup for Cocktails have to do with Tex-Mex, you might ask? It’s all in the fusion of sweet, tangy, and subtly herbal flavors; much akin to beloved southern recipes like sweet lemonade or a fresh berry compote.
A Symphony of Health Benefits
Apart from its luscious palette of flavors that lends itself to a range of cocktail experiments, this Woodruff Syrup also carries a bouquet of health benefits. Did you know that woodruff leaves are reported to be a rich source of a compound called coumarin, known for its potential anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant benefits? Healthline provides a detailed read on this intriguing compound. Now that doesn’t mean you should start binge-drinking this syrup; moderation, as always, is key.
But wait, there’s more! The fresh mixed berries and lemons in this recipe not only provide delightful flavor complexities, they’re also a great source of natural antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber. Medical studies have revealed the potential health benefits from regular consumption of these yummy fruits, ranging from improved digestion to boosted immune function.
Pairing Suggestions
This syrup is incredibly versatile and can be used in a wide range of cocktails or even non-alcoholic drinks. It complements fruity cocktails, accentuates gin-based drinks and even spices up sparkling water. Can’t wait to mix up this syrup with a classic Margarita or even a Bloody Mary for a modern twist on these classics. I imagine it could also pair deliciously with Tex-Mex staples like spicy grilled shrimp or succulent carnitas, with its layers of sweet and tangy flavors providing the perfect counterbalance.
Ultimately, I am thrilled to introduce this Woodruff Syrup for Cocktails, not just for its deliciously clever fusion of traditional and modern flavors, but for the wonderful opportunities it provides for culinary quests of all kinds. I hope you enjoy concocting and savoring it as much as I do!
What You’ll Need
- 1 cup fresh woodruff leaves
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 cups water
- 1 lemon (for zest)
- 1/2 cup lemon juice (from about 2 lemons)
- 1 cup mixed fresh berries (like strawberries, raspberries, etc.)
Method
Step One
Start by washing the fresh woodruff leaves thoroughly under cold water. Then, pat them dry using a clean kitchen towel.
Step Two
Take a pot and add the 2 cups of water and 2 cups of granulated sugar to it. Stir it well and put the pot on medium heat. Stir it regularly until the sugar dissolves completely.
Step Three
Add the fresh woodruff leaves to the pot. Lower the heat and let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes. This process will help to infuse the woodruff flavour into the syrup.
Step Four
In the meanwhile, zest your lemon and squeeze out half a cup of juice from it. You can keep the rest for later use.
Step Five
After 10 minutes, add the lemon zest, lemon juice and the fresh berries into the pot. Stir well and allow it to simmer for another 10 minutes.
Step Six
After the mixture has finished simmering, switch off the heat and let it cool.
Step Seven
Once the mixture is cool, strain it using a sieve to remove the solid ingredients. Store the obtained syrup in a sterilized bottle.
Step Eight
Woodruff Syrup for Cocktails is ready to use! It can be stored in a cool, dark place for up to a month. Simply add a few teaspoons into your cocktail for a flavourful twist.
