How do you make sugar syrup?

Basic Recipe:

* Ingredients:

* 1 cup granulated sugar

* 1 cup water

* Instructions:

* Combine sugar and water in a saucepan.

* Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly until sugar dissolves.

* Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, or until syrup reaches desired consistency.

* Remove from heat and let cool completely.

Variations:

* Simple Syrup: Use equal parts sugar and water.

* Rich Syrup: Use a 2:1 ratio of sugar to water (2 cups sugar to 1 cup water).

* Light Syrup: Use a 1:2 ratio of sugar to water (1 cup sugar to 2 cups water).

* Flavored Syrup: Add flavorings to the syrup while it's simmering. Popular options include:

* Vanilla: Add 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

* Citrus: Add zest of 1 orange or lemon

* Mint: Add 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves

* Coffee: Add 1 tablespoon instant coffee

* Spices: Add 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom

Tips:

* Use a candy thermometer to monitor the syrup's temperature for accurate consistency.

* Thin Syrup: Simmer for 5 minutes.

* Medium Syrup: Simmer for 10 minutes.

* Thick Syrup: Simmer for 15 minutes.

* Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Uses:

* Cocktails: Add sweetness and flavor to drinks

* Desserts: Drizzle over cakes, ice cream, and fruit

* Coffee and tea: Sweeten your beverages

* Baking: Use as a glaze or for moistening cakes

* Preserving: Use as a base for preserving fruits and vegetables

Enjoy your delicious homemade sugar syrup!