Aromatic Basil Soda
A Refreshing Twist: Homemade Basil Syrup and Aromatic Basil Soda Recipe
Don’t just make pesto when you have abundant basil! Craft a special basil syrup to elevate your beverage game. With this homemade syrup, you can create a basil soda that’s even more unique and delightful than anything you’d find at a high-end cafe. Experience a truly special and innovative drink, perfect for those who love fresh, herbaceous flavors.
For the Basil Syrup
- 4 cups water
- 4 cups organic sugar (equal parts water and sugar)
- 200 grams fresh basil leaves (stems removed)
- Lemon juice (optional, to taste)
For the Basil Soda
- Homemade basil syrup
- Chilled sparkling water
- Ice cubes (as needed)
- Homemade basil syrup
- Chilled sparkling water
- Ice cubes (as needed)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Begin by gently rinsing the fresh basil leaves under cool running water. Carefully remove the leaves from their stems and pat them thoroughly dry. Ensuring the leaves are dry is important to prevent diluting the syrup’s flavor.
Step 2
In a saucepan, combine 4 cups of water and 4 cups of organic sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring only until the sugar is completely dissolved. Crucially, **do not stir** once the sugar starts dissolving to maintain the syrup’s clarity.
Step 3
Once the sugar has fully dissolved, add all the prepared basil leaves to the saucepan. Bring to a gentle simmer, then immediately remove from heat. Cover the saucepan tightly with a lid and let it steep until completely cool, allowing the basil to infuse its aroma into the syrup.
Step 4
After the syrup has cooled, use an immersion blender to purée the basil leaves directly in the saucepan until smooth. This step helps to release more of the basil’s essence into the syrup. Once blended, cover again and let it infuse for at least another hour, or longer for a more intense flavor.
Step 5
Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to separate the basil leaves from the syrup. Press gently to extract as much liquid as possible, but avoid forcing solids through. Discard the basil solids. If desired, stir in a small amount of lemon juice at this stage for a touch of brightness.
Step 6
Pour the strained basil syrup back into the saucepan and bring it to a brief simmer again. This helps to further preserve the syrup. Once simmered, carefully pour the hot syrup into sterilized glass bottles and seal them tightly. Store in a cool place.
Step 7
Now, it’s time to assemble your refreshing basil soda! Prepare chilled sparkling water and plenty of ice cubes. Fill your serving glasses generously with ice for a beautifully chilled beverage.
Step 8
Pour your desired amount of the homemade basil syrup into each glass over the ice. Start with a smaller amount and adjust to your sweetness preference. Then, slowly top up with chilled sparkling water. Stir gently and enjoy your unique, aromatic basil soda!
