Simple Syrups are easy-squeezy to make, and the number of flavors you can concoct are endless. Pictured here are a raspberry, blackberry and a combination of blackberry blueberry. My first venture into the world of simple syrups was my impatience for a great mojito. I wasn't about to waste any rum on a bad mojito, and I wanted to get the ratios just right. So came the Mint Simple Syrup: to get an in-your-face mint forward drink, with already dissolved sugar. Then my mojitos were easy to whip up: all I had to do was add rum, fresh lime and soda. (Lets be clear, some of the early versions of my mojito involved green looking swamp water, undrinkable flecks of mint all over my teeth and throat, and post-sip facial winces from my husband followed by a not-so-believable smile).

So began my infatuation with simple syrup---and vanilla, peach, mango and gingersnap flavors followed. I have only started simmering the sugar on this one; no doubt many syrups will follow. In fact, I may package a trio of syrups for a neighborly Christmas gift.

If I do offer simple syrups for a hostess or friendly gift, I will probably attach a sticky label or tie on a card with 2-3 drink ideas (I realize I may be more excited about melting sugar than the next guy, so providing ideas makes it easier for others to enjoy). Drink ideas might include Italian Sodas, Gingersnaps or Mojitos. No doubt I will have to keep stirring the kettle to come up with more! Let me know if you come up with a fabulous new syrup or simple syrup inspired drink!

Blackberry Blueberry Simple Syrup 1 cups sugar 1 1/2 cups water 15-20 blueberries 15-20 blackberries

Bring to simmer over medium heat; simmer 5 minutes (sugar should be dissolved). Add berries and turn off heat. Cool to room temperature. Strain out berries and pour into bottle (keeps for weeks at room temp with tight lid; I recycle olive oil and maple syrup bottles and make my own labels for whatever inhabits the jar next).

Raspberry Simple Syrup 1 cups sugar 1 1/2 cups water 1/2 pint raspberries

Same instructions as above.