Jasmine Tea Syrup
Bar Prep • syrup
Description
A floral, lightly sweetened jasmine tea syrup for cocktails and nonalcoholic drinks. Made by steeping jasmine tea to concentrate its aroma, then dissolving sugar to capture the tea's perfume in a versatile simple syrup.
History
Jasmine tea—typically green tea scented with jasmine blossoms—originated in China centuries ago. Its fragrant aroma has been used in beverages and, more recently, in cocktails and modern mixology as a floral flavoring.
Instructions
Step 1.
1) Ingredients: 1 cup (240 ml) water, 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar, 2 tbsp loose-leaf jasmine tea OR 3 standard jasmine tea bags.
Step 2.
2) Bring the water to about 175–185°F (80–85°C). If you don't have a thermometer, bring to a simmer then remove from heat and let cool 30 seconds.
Step 3.
3) Add the jasmine tea to the hot water and steep for 4 minutes for a pronounced jasmine aroma (3 minutes for a lighter note). Avoid oversteeping to prevent bitterness.
Step 4.
4) Strain the tea leaves or remove tea bags, pressing gently to extract liquid.
Step 5.
5) Return the hot jasmine tea to the saucepan. Add the sugar and stir over low heat until completely dissolved. Do not boil; just warm enough to dissolve the sugar.
Step 6.
6) Remove from heat and cool to room temperature. Taste and adjust: for a sweeter syrup, warm again and dissolve up to 1/4 cup more sugar.
Step 7.
7) Transfer the cooled syrup to a clean, airtight bottle or jar. Label with the date.
Step 8.
8) Store refrigerated and shake before use. Discard if cloudiness, off-smell or visible spoilage appears.
Storage
Keep refrigerated in a sterilized, airtight bottle or jar. Shake before use. Use within 10 days; discard if mold, off-odor, or unexpected cloudiness appears.