Blueberry Syrup
Bar Prep • syrup
Description
A versatile, fresh-tasting blueberry syrup made from fresh or frozen blueberries, sugar, water, and a touch of lemon. Bright, fruity syrup for cocktails, sodas, mocktails, and desserts.
History
Fruit syrups have long been used to sweeten and flavor drinks; blueberry syrup is a seasonal favorite that rose in popularity with modern craft cocktails and farm-to-bar movements.
Instructions
Step 1.
1) Ingredients: 1 cup (150 g) fresh or frozen blueberries, 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar, 1 cup (240 ml) water, 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice (optional, brightens flavor and helps preservation).
Step 2.
2) Combine fruit, sugar, and water in a small saucepan.
Step 3.
3) Bring mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring so the sugar dissolves. Once simmering, reduce heat and simmer for 6–10 minutes until blueberries burst and the liquid is deeply colored.
Step 4.
4) Remove from heat and lightly mash the berries with a spoon or potato masher to release remaining juices. Taste and add lemon juice if using.
Step 5.
5) Let the syrup steep off heat for 10–20 minutes for fuller flavor.
Step 6.
6) Strain through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a clean container, pressing on solids to extract as much liquid as possible. Discard solids.
Step 7.
7) If you prefer a clearer syrup, strain a second time through a finer filter or coffee filter.
Step 8.
8) Cool to room temperature, transfer to a sterilized bottle or jar, seal, and refrigerate.
Step 9.
9) Shake or stir before use; if settled, briefly warm and stir to reincorporate.
Storage
Keep refrigerated in a clean, airtight bottle or jar. Will keep 10–14 days refrigerated. Freeze in ice cube trays or sealed container for up to 3 months. Discard if cloudy, foamy, or off-smelling.