Name: Ginger Simple Syrup
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 1
Ingredients: 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 cup water; 1/2 cup fresh ginger root

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Ginger simple syrup is a versatile and easy-to-make syrup that adds a delightful touch of warmth and spice to a variety of beverages. With just water, sugar, and fresh ginger, you can create a spicy ginger syrup recipe that can take your homemade cocktails, non-alcoholic drinks, iced teas, and even desserts to the next level.

Ginger simple syrup is a delightful concoction that extracts the essence of ginger and blends it with a sweet base. It offers a balance of sweetness and the unique spiciness that ginger brings. This syrup can be easily prepared and is a fantastic addition to various beverages, including cocktails, mocktails, and teas.

The leftover ginger pieces can be repurposed and turned into candied ginger. You can find instructions for that further down the post.

Ingredients

Find the simple ingredients for this homemade ginger syrup in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post. Here is a rundown of what you will need.

Fresh ginger root. Chopped or sliced. You can peel it, but I personally don’t bother when using organic ginger. Ginger skin is so thin anyway, it’s totally fine to eat! This recipe is not suitable for ground ginger.
White sugar. Granulated cane sugar. You could use raw sugar or pure cane sugar but avoid light brown sugar, which will change the flavor. The amount of sugar is large but remember, it’s syrup and meant to be sweet.
Water

Method

Start by washing your ginger root and (optionally) peeling it. Slice or chop the ginger into small pieces.

Combine the water, sugar, and sliced ginger in a medium saucepan.

Place the saucepan on medium-high heat, stirring continuously until the sugar dissolves completely.

Bring the mixture to a simmer, then remove from heat and let the ginger steep in the syrup for 30 minutes until it’s room temperature.

Once it has steeped, balance a fine-mesh strainer and cloth over a bowl and tip in the syrup, straining out the ginger.

Transfer the syrup to a clean storage container or glass jar, and store it in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

Homemade Candied Ginger

You’ll likely end up with leftover ginger pieces after straining the syrup. Don’t let this ginger go to waste! One fantastic way to use it is by transforming it into candied ginger. This sweet and spicy treat offers a delightful combination of flavors and makes for a perfect snack or a versatile ingredient in various recipes.

After straining the ginger simple syrup, collect the leftover ginger pieces. Chop them into small chunks if you haven’t done so yet.

In a saucepan, combine equal parts granulated sugar and water. Use enough to submerge the ginger slices fully.

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Allow the ginger to cook in the syrup over medium heat for about 40-60 minutes or until the ginger becomes translucent and tender.

Stir occasionally.

Transfer the candied ginger slices to parchment paper using a slotted spoon, letting them drain well.

Allow to dry overnight until it feels tacky.

Place in a container and pour over a few tablespoons of granulated sugar. Add a lid and shake the container to coat the ginger.

The candied ginger is ready to be enjoyed or stored. You can store it in an airtight container at room temperature for several weeks.

Uses for ginger syrup

Ginger simple syrup’s versatility shines through in a multitude of beverage applications. Here are some exciting ways to incorporate this into your drinks:

Cocktails: Ginger simple syrup adds depth and complexity to cocktails. It pairs wonderfully with spirits like vodka, dark rum, or gin (like in this ginger gimlet.) Add some to hot toddy, or try a Ginger Mule by combining ginger syrup, lime juice, vodka, and sparkling water. Experiment with your favorite cocktail recipes to incorporate this spicy twist.
Mocktails: For those who prefer non-alcoholic beverages, ginger simple syrup can create delightful mocktails. Mix it with club soda, fresh citrus juice, and muddled fresh mint leaves to create refreshing and invigorating concoctions.
Ginger tea and Infusions: Add a touch of ginger simple syrup to your favorite hot tea or infusions for a comforting and soothing beverage. Ginger’s natural warmth complements various flavors, from chamomile to lemongrass.
Coffee and Hot Chocolate: Give your morning brew a unique twist by incorporating ginger simple syrup into your coffee or hot chocolate. It provides a subtle spiciness that complements the rich flavors of these comforting beverages.

More simple syrups

Yield: 1 cup