Simple syrup recipe (atir)
Simple syrup, known as atir in the Middle East, is a versatile and essential ingredient used in many traditional desserts. This sweet syrup is especially popular in desserts like ashta, a creamy Middle Eastern treat. What makes atir so appealing is not just its rich flavor, but how incredibly easy it is to make.
Ingredients
- 2 cups sugar
- 1 cup water
- 2 tsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp orange blossom water
Instructions
- In a pot, combine the sugar and water. Turn on the heat and let it come to a boil without stirring.
- Once it starts boiling, add the lemon juice and orange blossom water. Stir to combine.
- Reduce the heat to medium and let the mixture simmer for 4 minutes.
- Turn off the heat and allow the syrup to cool completely.
- Once cooled, transfer to a container or glass jar and seal.
Notes
1. For a thicker syrup, use half the amount of water compared to the sugar. This creates a rich, concentrated syrup.
2. If you want a thinner syrup, use equal parts sugar and water. This results in a runnier syrup that’s perfect for drinks.
3. For extra flavor, infuse your syrup with herbs, spices, or citrus. Simply add them while heating and strain them out before storing.
4. To keep your syrup from crystallizing, add a little lemon juice. The acidity helps prevent sugar crystals from forming.
5. Store syrup in a glass jar for easy access. Glass doesn’t absorb odors, which helps keep the syrup fresh.
6. If you want a longer shelf life, use a 2:1 sugar-to-water ratio. This thicker syrup lasts longer than regular simple syrup.
7. Don’t overheat the syrup. Heat it just enough to dissolve the sugar. Too much heat can alter the flavor.