As soon as the weather starts warming up, I like to always have a jug of iced tea in the frig. I use a large mason jar and make a batch a couple of times a week. Several years ago when we were vacationing in Sedona and the Grand Canyon, I had Agave Nectar at a health food restaurant. I loved the flavor and have been using it ever since, plus it’s liquid so it dissolves easily in cold drinks. Lately, I’ve been making simple flavored syrups. It is super easy to make, dissolves in cold easily and can add an extra punch of flavor. Yesterday I made lavender syrup, it adds an interesting subtle flavor.
To make the syrup use equal amounts of sugar to water – you can use raw sugar or white whatever is your preference. I usually do 3/4 cup sugar and 3/4 cup water. Put that in a pot to boil with whatever flavor enhancer you want to add. Some ideas: basil, mint, vanilla, almond, rose, dried lavender, etc. Get creative! A small handful usually does the trick. You can add more or less of the flavor to your taste. Boil for a minute or two to make sure the sugar dissolves completely, then set aside to cool and steep the flavors. Once cooled strain into a container and store in the frig for up to two weeks. Enjoy!