Strawberry top syrup

I use a lot of strawberries in my baking, and for a long time I've wanted to waste less. So I discovered you could make strawberry syrup from just the tops of the strawberries that are often tossed. 

So, despite being anything but a food/recipe blogger here I am to share my "recipe". 

Step one: get a large pot and add in all the strawberry tops (I typically freeze mine and collect them so I can make a big batch all at once).

Then add enough water to just barely cover them. 

Then bring the tops and water to a gentle boil (maybe a simmer idk). Cook for 10-15 minutes. While cooking,g I mash the tops against the sides of the pot to try and break them down more. 

After cooking, the berry tops will have lost color, but the smell will be strong of strawberries. 

Step two: it's time to strain! 

I use a large glass container that also measures the liquid contents. While straining mash the tops to squish out all the juices, then set aside to toss or compost. 

Step 3: Measure the liquid; you will use that measurement for the sugar to add. My liquid measured about 5 1/2 C. So that's how much sugar I used. 

Add all the sugar and strawberry liquid back into the pot (I don't rinse the pot. I just make sure there aren't any leaves or anything left behind in the pot). 

The liquid will look more glossy with the sugar you are gonna bring this to a gentle boil (if you have a thermometer somewhere around 200°f and 215°f) and cook 10-15 minutes. I usually ditch the whisk at this point (it just adds more bubbles to the syrup) in favor of a good rubber spatula. 

Once the time is reached, you want to remove the pot from the heat. At this point, you're done! You can package it however you choose- I went ahead and canned mine with a steam bath. 

I got four pints worth of syrup.

Once opened, it does have to be refrigerated and is good for several months (if it lasts that long). 

Now you have your syrup! Go forth and use in all the ways! Here are some ideas:

•Mix with water and lemon juice to make strawberry lemonade

•Use in tea or mocktails 

•Delicious on pancakes or waffles

•On top of ice cream or drizzled over other desserts.