BLACKBERRY SODA WITH HOMEMADE BLACKBERRY SYRUP
Flavored syrups are one of my favorite parts of drink-making , whether they be boozy or not . Not only are they easy to make , they are also super versatile . This blackberry syrup is great in sodas or cocktails , but I ’ m warning you , if you pour it over vanilla ice cream , you might not survive the explosion of deliciousness . You can also drizzle it over yogurt , stir a little into a cup of tea or pour it straight over crushed ice , snow-cone style .
For the syrup ( makes about 1¾ cups ):
2 cups fresh blackberries , washed 1 cup sugar ¼ cup water ½ lime , juice and zest
For the sodas :
Sparkling water ( or ginger ale , lemon-lime soda or other sparkling beverage you want to add flavor to )
Fresh blackberries or lime wedges , for garnish
To prepare the syrup :
In a pot over medium heat , add the blackberries , sugar , water , lime juice and zest . Let cook for 4 – 6 minutes , or until the blackberries have softened and can be easily squished against the side of the pot with the back of a spoon . Then , do that . Squish the berries with the back of the spoon until all of the berries are broken down . Make sure you ’ re wearing an apron to protect your clothes from potential spatters .
Once the sugar is completely dissolved and the berries are broken down , pour the syrup through a fine mesh strainer into a bowl . I suggest setting the bowl in the sink to help mitigate splashes . Reserve the berry pulp for mixing into vanilla ice cream or spreading on toast .
Let the syrup cool , then transfer to a tightly lidded bottle or jar . Store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks .
To prepare the sodas :
Add 2 – 4 tablespoons blackberry syrup to a glass with ice . Top with sparkling water ( about 8 – 12 ounces , or to taste ), and stir gently to combine . Garnish with fresh berries or a wedge of lime .
NOTE …
To make these sodas boozy , add about an ounce of white rum , tequila , gin or other liqueur .
Recipe by Willow , Will Cook For Friends
74 PEACHYTHEMAGAZINE . COM