Almost everyone knows using fresh herbs and spices can bring a dish to the next level. BUT! Did you know that the same idea works for drinks too!?! This simple syrup will turn your good beverage into a great one! From Iced tea/lemonade to cocktails and mocktails, this syrup will change your life! Using the same flavor theory as crushed mint in a mojito, it adds sweetness and flavor to turn an ordinary drink into an extraordinary one! Did someone say Sangria?! Oh, yes, yes, YES! You can even use the syrup in cooking, just note that it will also add sweetness to your dish. This instructable focuses on my favorite herb infused syrup which uses basil and rosemary. However, it also tells you how to use other common herbs, and even popular spices to make a syrup to your liking. The options are literally unlimited! It's called "simple syrup" because it truly is so simple and easy to make. Okay, that's not technically the reason, but it truly is really is easy! Let get infusing!!

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You Need:

1 cup water

1 cup granulated sugar

1 large sprig rosemary

1/2 cup basil, lightly packed

Step 1: Simple Syrup Base

Add the water and sugar into a small sauce pan. Heat and mix over medium high heat until the sugar is completely dissolved.

Step 2: Pick Your Flavor(s)

Pick your flavor! Here we are using rosemary and basil that I harvested from my garden: 1 sprig rosemary, 1/2 cup basil. BUT! you can use whatever herb/spice you want! Here are a few other popular herb/spice ratios:

Rosemary: 2 large/4 small sprigs

Basil: 1 cup, lightly packed

Mint: 1 cup, lightly packed

Thyme: 2 large/ 4 small sprigs

Cinnamon: 4 sticks

Clove: 6 pieces

Star Anise: 4 pieces

***If you are combining 2 or 3 flavors, make sure to halve/third the amounts. Ex: we are making rosemary/basil syrup so we are only using 1 sprig of rosemary and 1/2 cup of basil vs 2 sprigs/1 cup as listed***

Step 3: Infuse Flavors

Thoroughly wash your fresh herbs. You don't want any dirt, pesticides (if store bought), ect. in your syrup. Spices do not need to be washed.

Once the sugar is fully dissolved you can add your herbs/spices. Bring the sugar mixture to a boil and continue to boil for 2 minutes.

Remove the pot from heat and allow the herbs/spices to steep at room temperature until cool. You want it to steep for at least 2 hours, and up to overnight for best results.

Step 4:

Strain the syrup into a bowl and then pour it into a jar or bottle. You should have just over a cup of syrup. Add the syrup to your favorite drink or dish as desired and enjoy!! Store extra syrup in the fridge for up to a month.