If you're looking to add a zingy twist to your drinks or desserts, this Ginger Citrus Simple Syrup is your new secret weapon. With the warmth of fresh ginger and the bright zest of citrus, it offers a refreshing boost you won't want to miss.
Sugar is the base of our syrup, providing sweetness and structure. The water is there to dissolve the sugar and act as a carrier for the flavors. The star of the show, fresh ginger, brings a spicy warmth that complements the sweet and tangy profiles of the lemon zest and orange zest. These zests infuse the syrup with bright, citrusy notes that balance the heat of the ginger.
This syrup shines in cocktails like a ginger mojito or a citrus mule. It adds a refreshing twist to iced tea or lemonade. Drizzle it over pancakes or ice cream for a gourmet touch. You can even mix it into a fruit salad for an unexpected burst of flavor.
Start by grabbing a medium-sized saucepan and add your sugar and water. Place the pan over medium heat and stir occasionally. You'll want to keep an eye on it until the sugar has dissolved entirely. This should only take a few minutes.
Once the sugar is dissolved, toss in the sliced ginger, lemon zest, and orange zest. Give everything a gentle stir. Let the mixture come to a gentle simmer. Simmering helps the flavors to meld, so don't rush this step. Let it cook for about 5 minutes.
After simmering, remove the pan from the heat. Allow the syrup to steep, sitting undisturbed for about 30 minutes. This is where the magic happens — the ginger and citrus release their flavors into the syrup.
Once steeped, grab a strainer and pour the syrup through it to remove the solids. This ensures a smooth syrup. Finally, pour your finished syrup into a sterilized jar or bottle. Make sure it's cool before sealing it up.