You can make any amount of simple syrup as long as you use equal parts sugar and water. If using additional flavorings, such as fresh basil, mint, or tarragon sprigs, or sliced ginger root, pounded lemongrass stalks, or citrus peel, add them to the prepared syrup, and let them steep while the syrup cools. Discard solid ingredients before using or storing the syrup.

Ingredients

　　6 cups sugar

　　6 cups water

　　Prepare an ice-water bath. In a large saucepan, combine the sugar and water; bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has completely dissolved, about 10 minutes. Transfer to a large bowl set over the ice bath. Let stand, stirring occasionally, until the syrup is well chilled. Use immediately, or transfer to an airtight container, and refrigerate up to 2 months.

　　Reprinted with permission from The Martha Stewart Living Cookbook: The New Classics by Martha Stewart Living Magazine, copyright © 2007. Published by Clarkson Potter, a division of The Crown Publishing Group.Buy the full book from Amazon.