This gorgeous syrup is a super easy way to preserve otherwise-fragile berries. Drizzle it over ice cream, mix it with seltzer for an Italian soda, or pair it with bourbon or gin in a cocktail.

　　

Ingredients

Makes about 2 cups

　　1 pint (about 12 ounces) berries, any kind

　　Juice and finely grated zest of 1 lemon

　　1 1/2 cups sugar

　　3/4 cup water

　　

Step 1

Gently rinse the berries, pat them dry, and put them in a medium heatproof bowl. Using a fork or potato masher, crush the berries into a relatively even consistency. Add the lemon juice and zest.

　　

Step 2

Combine the sugar and water in a small saucepan and put it over medium-high heat. Cook, stirring frequently, until all the sugar has dissolved. Pour the syrup over the berries and stir to combine.

　　

Step 3

Set aside and let cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate overnight. The next day, strain the mixture into a jar or bottle. (Enjoy the leftover fruit with ice cream or plain yogurt; otherwise, just discard it.)

　　

Step 4

Refrigerated, the syrup will keep for at least a month.

　　Bi-Rite Market's Eat Good Food