Name: Spiced Simple Syrup
Yield: Makes about 3 cups
Ingredients: 1 Nutmeg, cut in half (or broken to big chunks); 2 tsp coriander seed; 1 tsp tellicherry black pepper; 1 tsp mace blades; 1 tsp sichuan pepper; 2 tsp fennel seed; 5 cardamom pods; 1 lemon, cut in 6 wedges; 1 orange, cut in 6 wedges; 400 grams (2 cups) granulated sugar; 480 grams/ml (2 cups) water

Many cocktails call for simple syrup, which is great to keep handy. This recipe is very easy, if you can boil water you can make this, and includes a great spice mix and fresh citrus to bring some bitterness and complex notes that will elevate the most simple drink. If you are in a rush or just do not feel like toasting the spices you can just mix it all and bring to a simmer. Some cocktail recipes from Christian follow this recipe.

Spiced Simple Syrup

Lior Lev Sercarz

Servings/Yield

Makes about 3 cups

Ingredients

1 Nutmeg, cut in half (or broken to big chunks)
2 tsp coriander seed
1 tsp tellicherry black pepper
1 tsp mace blades
1 tsp sichuan pepper
2 tsp fennel seed
5 cardamom pods
1 lemon, cut in 6 wedges
1 orange, cut in 6 wedges
400 grams (2 cups) granulated sugar
480 grams/ml (2 cups) water

Directions

In a sauce pan toast the spices over low heat for about 2 to 3 minutes, just until you smell a pleasant spice scent.
Add the sugar, water and cut citrus. Mix everything well and bring to a simmer over low heat.
Cook for about 5 minutes on low heat, then remove from the heat, cover, and allow to cool. You can strain the syrup at this point and start using it or leave it in the fridge overnight (or longer) with everything in it. You will obtain a stronger and more flavorful syrup this way.