Concentrated Blackberry Syrup
Ingredients: 1.5 kg of fresh blackberries (preferably wild as they are better) 500 g of sugar (or less if you prefer it more sour) 1 teaspoon of lemon juice
To prepare a delicious and natural refreshing drink from fresh fruits, we start with an essential step: carefully washing the fruits. It is important to use a plastic strainer to avoid any chemical reaction with metal. So, after washing the fruits very well under cold running water, we let them drain to remove excess water. This step ensures a clear drink concentrated in the flavors of the fruits.
The next step is mashing the fruits. We use a silk or plastic sieve, as metal can oxidize the fruits, affecting the final taste. We mash the fruits with the help of a wooden spoon or a spatula, so that we extract as much juice and pulp as possible. The seeds and pulp that remain in the sieve are usually discarded, unless we want to use them to prepare a delicious jello that will add extra texture.
Once we have obtained the juice and pulp, we mix them well with sugar. This combination will create a fragrant and sweet syrup, and the sugar will help preserve the drink. We put the mixture on low heat, stirring constantly to prevent sticking and ensure perfect homogenization. As the syrup begins to thicken, the flavor of the fruits will become increasingly intense, and the color will become vibrant.
After we have achieved the desired consistency, we take the pot off the heat and prepare for the final stage. We pour the syrup into clean bottles, and to ensure that the drink will keep well, it is recommended to steam the bottles for about half an hour. This process will destroy bacteria and extend the shelf life of the drink.
After we finish sterilizing, we leave the bottles on the kitchen counter to cool completely. Once the drink has cooled, we can store it in a cool place, where it will wait to be enjoyed. We serve the natural refresher with mineral water, adding ice cubes for a refreshing experience. The flavors of the fresh fruits will perfectly combine with the effervescence of the water, creating a delicious and healthy drink, perfect for hot summer days. This recipe not only offers an exceptional taste but also a way to enjoy the benefits of fresh fruits in an innovative form.
