Homemade mint syrup is great in sparkling water, plain water or tea. Served with ice in summer, it is pleasantly refreshing; in winter it works well in a mug of hot tea. Thanks to the option of using fruit sugar suitable for diabetics, even those watching their sugar intake can enjoy it.
Preparing the syrup: Boil 1 litre of clean water and leave it to stand for a while so that it stays warm but not boiling. Then stir the sugar and citric acid into it.
Steeping the mint: Place the mint, including the flowers, in a suitable clean container and pour the prepared water over it. The herb steeps better in warmer water, but water that is too hot could destroy valuable substances.
Steeping the mixture: Leave the mixture to steep for 2 days at room temperature, stirring it occasionally. There is no need to put it in the fridge, but avoid direct sunlight.
Straining and filling: After two days, strain the mixture and fill clean sterilised bottles. After filling, wipe the necks and seal the bottles. Store them in the fridge.
Sterilising: Sterilise the syrup at 85 °C for about 15 minutes to extend its shelf life. If sterilising, add a teaspoon of preservative beforehand; however, this is not strictly necessary.

