Tuesday Tip: Simple Syrup

So many recipes these days call for simple syrup. Think lemonade, iced tea, and just about every cocktail on the planet. Now, you could easily go to the store and buy a $10+ bottle of pre-made simple syrup, or you could make your own for just pennies. All is it is water and sugar. That's it. Got 1 cup of water and 1 cup of sugar? You are in business my friend! Plus, once you've mastered the original simple syrup you can get creative by adding things like ginger, mint, lemon peel, or vanilla beans to create flavored simple syrups. The best part about using simple syrup over just plain sugar is that you don't get all of those sugar granules that collect in the bottom of your glass instead of sweetening your drink. For every teaspoon of granulated sugar that you would normally use to sweeten, use 1 1/2 teaspoons of the simple syrup.

Simple Syrup:

• 1 cup water
• 1 cup granulated sugar

In a medium sauce pan add the water and the sugar. Heat over medium heat; stirring often. Cook for 3-5 minutes until the sugar has completely dissolved. Allow to cool and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.