There’s no more aptly named concoction than simple syrup. It’s easy to make and can be used in tea, coffee, cocktails and even cooking. It dissolves equally well in hot or cold liquids and can last anywhere from two weeks to six months in the fridge. Simple syrup can be made using any type of sugar or honey, maple syrup and even molasses. Hint: it’s the perfect way to save rock hard honey that’s been sitting neglected in your cupboard.

Because simple syrup is basically equal parts sweetener and water dissolved together in a saucepan, it opens the way for, you guessed it, flavouring. Simple syrup can be infused with grated fruit peel, herbs, botanicals, the options are limitless. The resulting syrup can add a surprise burst of flavour to any beverage or dish. Try it once, and simple syrup will quickly become part of your culinary repertoire.

Here are a few simple syrup recipes for you to try. One is fruit based, another is herbal and the third is a simple switch-out of the type of sugar used to create the syrup. 

Lime Simple Syrup

If there’s any fruit that bursts with fresh tanginess it’s lime. This Lime Simple Syrup has a zesty kick that works in anything from a bold Organic Assam to a lighter Sencha Kyoto and even in vodka, gin or bourbon cocktails. To use, simply pour a half ounce or so into hot or cold tea and give it a stir. Option – make the exact same recipe using lemons, or even oranges!

Ingredients:
- 2 limes
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
 
Method:
- Remove peel from limes in long strips, trying not to get any pith.
- Combine lime strips, sugar and water in a small saucepan.
- Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring constantly until sugar dissolves.
- Remove from heat and cool to room temperature – about 30 minutes.
- Pour mixture through a fine mesh strainer into an airtight container and discard lime peels.
- Store in refrigerator up to two weeks.
- Note: for larger fruit like lemon or orange you only need one, unless you like a lot of flavour!

Thyme Simple Syrup

This thyme infused simple syrup add a slightly herbal sweetness and flavour to anything from iced or cold brew tea to cocktails. It’s refreshing, cool and complex and will compliment green teas like Organic Golden Green or the delicate Silver Needle. A couple of options to thyme would be to use rosemary or even culinary lavender.

Ingredients:
- ½ cup loosely packed thyme sprigs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
 
Method:
- Combine thyme sprigs, sugar and water in a small saucepan.
- Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring constantly until sugar dissolves.
- Remove from heat and cool to room temperature – about 30 minutes.
- Discard thyme sprigs and pour mixture into an airtight container.
- Store in refrigerator up to two weeks.

Coconut Sugar Simple Syrup

This simple syrup is the easiest of the three and you’re going to love it. Just switch out coconut sugar for the granulated sugar and that’s it. As coconut sugar is natural and unrefined, it has a few trace nutrients. Coconut simple syrup is the perfect accompaniment to darker teas like Cream of Earl Grey or Masala Chai. As this simple syrup contains just sugar and water it has a longer shelf life, lasting up to six months in the fridge.

These are just a few ideas for simple syrups using fruit, herbs and other types of sweetener. Experiment with your own combinations to come up with a simple syrup that will work in tea, coffee, cocktails and even cooking. Packaged nicely, an infused simple syrup makes a thoughtful, unique gift.