sweetning cocktails

Simple syrup is a vital part of many cocktail recipes — mojitos, mint juleps and more. It’s the easiest, most reliable way to add a little sweetness to balance your drink.

It’s just sugar and water. (Truly simple, no?) Many recipes that call for muddling sugar or adding a sugar cube can just as easily be made with simple syrup.
Here’s what you do:

Pour equal parts sugar and water into a container with a