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Chamomile Simple Syrup

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Chamomile Simple Syrup is a soft, floral syrup with gentle notes of honey and apple. You make it by steeping chamomile tea in a basic sugar syrup, which takes about 10 minutes of hands-on time. Stir it into lattes, iced tea, lemonade, and cocktails, or drizzle it over fruit, yogurt, and cakes.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup (240 ml) water
  • 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
  • 4 chamomile tea bags, or 1/4 cup (10 g) dried chamomile flowers
  • 1 strip lemon peel (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon honey (optional)
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Combine the water, sugar, and salt in a small saucepan over medium heat.
  2. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely, about 3 to 4 minutes, and the mixture just begins to steam. Do not let it boil.
  3. Remove the pan from the heat and add the chamomile tea bags (or dried flowers) and the lemon peel, if using.
  4. Cover and steep for 15 minutes for a mild floral flavor, or up to 20 minutes for a stronger one.
  5. Remove the tea bags and lemon peel, gently pressing the bags to release the liquid. If you used dried flowers, strain through a fine mesh strainer.
  6. Stir in the honey, if using.
  7. Cool completely, then pour into a clean jar or bottle, cover, and refrigerate.

Notes

  • Steep, don’t boil: Boiling chamomile can bring out a bitter, grassy taste. Let the syrup cool slightly before steeping.
  • Dried flowers vs. tea bags: Loose dried chamomile flowers give a brighter, more floral flavor, while tea bags are quick and convenient.
  • How much to use: Use 1 to 2 tablespoons per drink.
  • Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
  • Ways to use it: Add to iced tea, lemonade, lattes, sparkling water, or cocktails. It also works well over peaches, berries, yogurt, or pound cake.
  • Flavor ideas: Add a vanilla bean, a few slices of fresh ginger, or a sprig of lavender while steeping.
  • Thicker syrup: Use a 2:1 ratio of sugar to water for a richer syrup that lasts longer.
  • Note: Chamomile is related to ragweed. If you have a ragweed allergy or are unsure, check with your doctor before using it.

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