Strawberries and citrus is a flavour match made in heaven. Add some spices and you have this absolutely delectable syrup that will definitely have you coming back for more. It also makes a perfect gift if you can bear to share some.
500g chopped strawberries (frozen is fine)
a large knob of grated ginger
zest and juice of 2 lemons and 1 orange
1 tsp pepper
1/2 tsp flaky sea salt
1 cup caster sugar
1 tbsp cardamom seeds
Cinnamon stick
Star anise
To the bowl of a food processor add strawberries, ginger, lemon and orange zest and juice, pepper and salt. Pulse to combine and then remove to a pot or preserving pan.
Add remaining ingredients and bring the mixture gently to the boil, reduce heat, and then simmer for 20-25 minutes until the mixture is jam-like.
Strain through a fine sieve, pour into sterilised bottles or jars and seal. Makes 2-3 bottles. It is so good that I immediately wanted to make another batch. But don’t be tempted to make a big batch all at once because the straining can be a bit fiddly and time consuming and you want the syrup to still be hot when you pour it into the bottles.
Use syrup as a topping over icecream, pancakes, yoghurt or fresh fruit. It makes a tasty and different dipping sauce for savouries. And of course you could try it in your favourite drink with champagne, gin or just soda water.
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