Simple syrup has countless uses—here it is combined with fruit to make frozen desserts, but it can also be used to poach fruits (see page 489) and to sweeten iced tea, lemonade, and cocktails.

　　

Ingredients

makes 1 quart

　　3 cups sugar

　　3 cups water

　　

Step 1

In a large saucepan, bring the sugar and the water to a boil over medium-high heat. Cook, stirring occasionally, until sugar has completely dissolved, about 10 minutes. Let cool. Use immediately, or transfer to an airtight container, and refrigerate up to 2 months.

　　

Variation

Step 2

To infuse Simple Syrup with tender herbs such as basil, mint, or tarragon sprigs, ladle syrup over 1/2 bunch of herbs and let steep at least 30 minutes (and up to 2 hours, depending on desired strength). For other flavorings, such as sliced fresh ginger, cinnamon sticks, strips of citrus peel, and vanilla bean, it helps to bring the syrup to a simmer with the aromatics first, before steeping. Strain syrup, discarding aromatics, before using.

　　Reprinted with permission from Martha Stewart's Cooking School: Lessons and Recipes for the Home Cook by Martha Stewart. Copyright © 2008 by Martha Stewart. Published by Crown Publishing. All Rights Reserved.Martha Stewart is the author of dozens of bestselling books on cooking, entertaining, gardening, weddings, and decorating. She is the host of The Martha Stewart Show, the Emmy-winning, daily national syndicated program, and founder of Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia, which publishes several magazines, including Martha Stewart Living; produces Martha Stewart Living Radio, channel 112 on SIRIUS Satellite Radio; and provides a wealth of ideas and information on www.marthastewart.com.