Recipes

On a Lighter Note

While the bulk of this website deals with extremely serious issues, it would be worth highlighting two recipes using sugar which are exceedingly easy to make and demonstrate the versatility of the substance. Used in moderation, sugar can create wonderful treats that brighten your day. Just make sure to check the origin and consider options that are more ethical, pending a wider system transformation. 

Rock Candy

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups (400 g) granulated white sugar

  • 1 cup (240 mL) water

  • Food coloring (optional)

  • Flavor extract (optional, e.g., vanilla, mint, lemon)

  • Wooden skewers or cotton string

  • Glass jar or tall glass

  • Clothespin or clip (to suspend the skewer)

Picture of yellow colored rock candy crystals on stick over black bowl
Credit to: Rye-96

Instructions:

  1. Prepare your skewer or string:

    • Wet the skewer or string with water and roll it in a small amount of granulated sugar.

    • Let it dry completely. This gives the sugar crystals something to “seed” on.

  2. Make the sugar solution:

    • In a saucepan, bring the water to a boil.

    • Gradually stir in the sugar, one half cup at a time, allowing it to dissolve fully before adding more.

    • Keep stirring and heating until all sugar is dissolved and the solution is clear. You’re aiming for a supersaturated solution, so stop once no more sugar dissolves. (If some undissolved sugar remains at the bottom, strain it out.)

    • Remove from heat.

  3. Add optional ingredients:

    • Stir in food coloring (a few drops) and flavoring extract (½ tsp) if desired.

  4. Pour and suspend:

    • Pour the solution into your glass jar.

    • Suspend the prepared skewer or string into the solution. Make sure it hangs without touching the sides or bottom.

    • Use a clothespin laid across the jar rim to keep it centered.

  5. Let it grow:

    • Place the jar in a cool, undisturbed location.

    • Cover the top with a paper towel or coffee filter to keep dust out.

    • Crystals should begin forming in 1–2 days. Let it grow for 5–7 days for large crystals.

  6. Finish:

    • Once you’re happy with the size, remove the skewer and let it dry for a few hours.

    • Enjoy or store in a dry, airtight container.

image of a glass bottle of clear simple syrup and a martini glass with a clear liquid in it
Credit to www.proflowers.com

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Proceed

Simple Syrup

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup granulated sugar

  • 1 cup water

Instructions:

  1. Combine:
    Add sugar and water to a small saucepan.

  2. Heat:
    Place over medium heat. Stir constantly until the sugar is completely dissolved.
    (Do not let it boil unless you’re making a thicker syrup.)

  3. Cool:
    Once clear and fully dissolved, remove from heat. Let it cool to room temperature.

  4. Store:
    Pour into a clean jar or bottle. Keep refrigerated for up to 1 month.

Variations:

 

  • Rich simple syrup (sweeter & thicker): Use 2 parts sugar to 1 part water.

  • Flavored syrup: Add herbs (like mint), citrus peel, or spices during heating. Strain before storing.

  • Demerara or brown sugar syrup: Use the same method for a deeper flavor.