Ginger Hibiscus Vanilla Simple Syrup

Happy New Year! I don't know about you, but my family was welcomed into the New Year with the flu. Finally, almost two weeks into 2023, I am starting to feel like we are all back to our normal selves, although if I'm being honest, I'm constantly bracing myself for the next virus my kids will bring home from school.

While I'm not officially practicing Dry January, recovering from the flu has made a break from drinking necessary. Whenever I entertain I like to have a non-alcoholic beverage option that doesn't feel like an afterthought. Instead of offering sparkling water with a splash of cranberry juice, why not go one step farther and create a cocktail that feels exciting and memorable. Over the holidays I made a ginger hibiscus vanilla simple syrup that was enjoyed by adults and kids alike. Simple syrups are versatile and extremely easy to make, whether you're creating a home-made soda, cocktail or mocktail.

Ginger Hibiscus Vanilla Simple Syrup

Ingredients

• 2 cups sugar

• 5-8 slices peeled ginger

• 1/2 cup dried hibiscus flowers

• 1 vanilla bean, sliced open length-wise

Procedure

In a medium sauce pan, combine 2 cups of water with the two cups of sugar. Place over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar is dissolved. Remove from the heat.

Place the ginger, hibiscus and vanilla bean in a large ball jar or heat safe container. Carefully pour the hot sugar syrup into the jar and stir to combine. Leave partially covered on countertop and allow to cool to room temperature. Cover with an air tight lid and store in the refrigerator over night before use. Store in refrigerator with air tight lid for up to 2 weeks.

Serving Suggestions:

Ginger Hibiscus Vanilla Soda

Fill a glass with ice. Pour 1 inch syrup into glass and top with seltzer. Stir to combine.

Ginger Hibiscus Vanilla Mocktail

Fill a glass with ice. Pour 1/2 inch syrup into glass and top with seltzer. Stir to combine. Garnish with a slice of lime and piece of candied ginger.

Ginger Hibiscus Vanilla Cosmo

Place ice, 2 ounces of vodka, 1 ounce syrup and 1 ounce lime juice in a cocktail shaker and shake till chilled. Pour into a martini glass and serve with a lime twist.

Ginger Hibiscus Vanilla Kir Royale

Pour 1/2 ounce creme de cassis and 1/2 ounce syrup into a champagne flute. Top with champagne or sparkling wine.