Suddenly, this summer, I’ve ended up with many jars of chamomile syrup. I keep buying bunches from the farmer’s market to make syrup at home, then at the cottage, then one more bunch because I needed garnish for this photo - so there is much more chamomile in my future.
Sure, I could make tea, but adding it to soda water has been a nice treat at night before I hit the hay. I’m not sure if it’s this drink - or that I tire myself out by the end of the day - but after I mix myself a few of these I get a little dopey and have an amazing nights sleep!
So whether it’s before bedtime, or just a refreshing midday beverage, make this syrup, and then this tonic ;)
Chamomile Syrup: Yields 3 cups
1 - 1.5 cups fresh chamomile flowers (approx 1 bunch, or 1/2 cup dried)
2 cups water
2 cups white sugar
Add all ingredients to a small pot and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Let simmer for 10 minutes on low heat, then strain through a fine strainer. Let cool before storing in the fridge for up to 1 month.
Chamomile tonic: Yields 1 drink
2 tbsp chamomile syrup
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp apple cider vinegar
1 cup carbonated water (or more as needed)
Ice
Add the chamomile syrup, lemon juice, vinegar, and then ice to fill a glass that holds approx 1/5 cups. With a stir stick that touches the bottom of the glass, stir vigorously so the ice spins around the glass and the syrup mix incorporates. Top with soda water and stir again. Drink immediately and add a couple stems of chamomile if you’d like to feel the flowers on your face each time you take a sip.
