Mint Syrup
Description
This homemade mint syrup is a refreshing staple for any kitchen, offering a bright burst of herbal sweetness. Made by steeping fresh mint leaves in hot water to extract their essential oils, then combining the juice with a rich simple syrup base, the result is a deeply flavorful concentrate. The addition of mint essential oil or extract amplifies the aroma, while a touch of green food coloring gives it an appealing visual pop. Ideal for elevating iced teas, lemonades, mojitos, and other summer cocktails, this syrup brings a garden-fresh taste to your beverages. It is also delicious drizzled over yogurt, ice cream, or waffles. Simple to prepare with common pantry ingredients, this versatile syrup is a delightful addition to your baking and mixology repertoire.Ingredients
Directions
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Place the chopped fresh mint leaves in a large crock or deep bowl.
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Pour the boiling water over the mint leaves.
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Cover the bowl with a flat dish and weight it down to keep the leaves submerged.
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Allow the mint to steep overnight to extract the flavor.
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While the mint steeps, combine the sugar and 3 cups of water in a large saucepan.
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Bring the sugar mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring until the sugar is dissolved.
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Reduce heat and simmer for 10 to 15 minutes to create a simple syrup base.
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Remove the steeped mint leaves from the water.
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Squeeze the mint leaves firmly to extract all the juice into a measuring cup.
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Strain the mint juice to remove any leaf particles.
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Add the strained mint juice to the simmering sugar syrup.
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Bring the mixture back to a boil and cook for 5 minutes.
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Remove the syrup from the heat.
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Discard the used mint leaves.
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Stir in a few drops of green food coloring until the desired bright green color is achieved.
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Stir in the mint essential oil or extract.
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Pour the finished syrup into sterile bottles or jars.
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Seal and refrigerate until ready to use.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 8
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 2073.7kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 4.4g7%
- Saturated Fat 0.5g3%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 19.5mg1%
- Total Carbohydrate 519.8g174%
- Dietary Fiber 17.2g69%
- Sugars 480.0g
- Protein 15.2g31%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Storage: Keep the syrup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Usage: Dilute with cold water, sparkling water, or mix into cocktails like mojitos and mint juleps.
Substitution: If you do not have mint essential oil, you can use mint extract, though the flavor may be less intense.
Tip: Ensure bottles are properly sterilized to prevent spoilage, especially since the syrup is high in sugar but not preserved with alcohol.
Variation: Adjust the amount of sugar to taste if you prefer a less sweet syrup.