Mixology 101: Mint Simple Syrup

Of all the simple syrups you'll make, this one lends itself the best to an abundance of cocktails. Add it to bourbon, whiskey, vodka, gin...virtually every spirit, and you've got the beginnings of a great drink.

Ingredients
1 container or 2 cups of organic mint leaves
2 cups of water
1.5 cups of organic sugar

Directions
Clean the mint leaves and combine them with the sugar and water in a saucepan over a low flame.
Bring the mixture to a boil.




Reduce the flame and let the liquid simmer for 15-45 minutes. The leaves will begin to shrink and the liquid will start to turn green.

Remove the saucepan from the heat and strain through a filter to catch the mint leaf pieces. Set on the counter to cool or refrigerate. Tightly sealed and refrigerated, this simple syrup will last 3-5 days.