If there's a flavor combination that instantly conjures up lazy summer days and invigorating coolness, it's the crisp freshness of lemon and mint. Making your own lemon-mint syrup at home is easy, and this recipe will instantly brighten drinks, desserts, and more.
Ingredients
- 1 bunch fresh mint (about 30 grams of leaves)
- 1 lemon (preferably organic, for both zest and juice)
- 500 ml water
- 500 g sugar (white or cane sugar)
Step-by-step Preparation
1. Wash the Mint
Rinse the mint leaves thoroughly under running water to remove any grit.
2. Prepare the Lemon
Pour boiling water over the lemon to clean the skin, then finely zest it. Squeeze out all the juice.
3. Make the Base
Put the water in a saucepan and add the sugar. Heat on low until the sugar is completely dissolved.
4. Infuse the Flavors
Add the lemon zest and all the mint leaves to the pan. Stir and let it simmer gently for about 10 minutes so the flavors combine beautifully.
5. Finish & Cool
After simmering, pour in the lemon juice. Let everything cool down a little with the herbs still in the syrup for a deeper infusion.
6. Strain and Store
Strain the syrup through a fine sieve or cheesecloth into a sterilized glass bottle or jar. Gently press the mint leaves to extract all flavor. Once cool, store in the fridge for up to 3 weeks.
Ways to Enjoy Your Lemon-Mint Syrup
- Mix with sparkling or still water for a homemade lemonade
- Drizzle over pancakes, waffles, or summer fruit
- Add to mocktails or cocktails, such as mojitos
- Sweeten your iced tea for a cool twist
- Use as a topping for yogurt or desserts
Tips for Success
- Try adding fresh ginger slices when simmering for extra zing
- Organic lemons are best for safe zest
- Adjust sugar to taste (note: less sugar reduces shelf life)
Homemade lemon-mint syrup is simple and rewarding, skipping commercial additives and letting you enjoy pure, bright flavors all summer long. This easy recipe is also perfect for gifting when packaged in a pretty bottle.
With its crisp citrus zing and cooling minty finish, this syrup is the secret to transforming everyday drinks and desserts into something truly special. This homemade syrup quickly becomes a kitchen staple and makes a thoughtful edible gift when presented in a pretty bottle.