Sokeriliemi

Sokeriliemi, also known as simple syrup in English, is a culinary ingredient made by dissolving sugar in water. The most common ratio is one part sugar to one part water, creating a 1:1 simple syrup. However, richer syrups, such as a 2:1 ratio of sugar to water (often called rich simple syrup), are also used. The sugar can be white granulated sugar, brown sugar, or even specialty sugars like demerara or turbinado, which impart different flavors and colors to the syrup.

The primary purpose of sokeriliemi is to sweeten liquids, particularly those that are cold, as granulated sugar does not dissolve easily in cold beverages. By pre-dissolving the sugar, it ensures a smooth and consistent sweetness without any gritty texture. This makes it a staple ingredient in cocktails, where it balances the tartness of citrus and the bitterness of spirits. It is also used in non-alcoholic drinks like iced tea, lemonade, and fruit punches.

Beyond beverages, sokeriliemi serves other culinary functions. It can be used to moisten cakes and pastries, adding sweetness and preventing them from drying out. It's also a key component in making sorbets and ice creams, as the sugar lowers the freezing point of water, resulting in a smoother texture. When making candy or preserving fruits, sokeriliemi's high sugar concentration acts as a preservative. The preparation is straightforward: combine sugar and water in a saucepan, heat gently while stirring until the sugar is fully dissolved, and then allow it to cool before use. It can be stored in a sealed container in the refrigerator for several weeks.