Simple Syrup

Sugar dissolved in water, a staple sweetener in many recipes.

Although you can buy it bottled, many people choose to make their own. The recipe is easy — take a measure of water and add in an equal measure of sugar. Dissolve in a pan over low heat until there is no sugar left. Leave to cool, bottle and refrigerate.

The above method will result in what is known as 1:1 syrup, one part sugar and one part water. Sometimes recipes call for 2:1 syrup, which is prepared in exactly the same manner but with two measures of sugar for each measure of water.

If you only want to have one bottle, you can just make it a 2:1 and then use half the amount given in each recipe. You’ll be adjusting for your preferred level of sweetness anyway…