Simple Syrup

Recipe sent in by: D. Archer
Super easy, very adaptable, keeps for a long time in the refrigerator.

- Sugar
- Water


1) The trick to this is having equal parts water and sugar. In a saucepan bring water and sugar to a boil, until the sugar is dissolved completely. Allow to cool. Keep in the refrigerator.

Notes:
by D. Archer
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This simple syrup is used in many different drink recipes, also used for keeping cake moist, just sprinkle on the different layers before frosting. Take care not to put too much as the cake will get soggy.

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Also, you can infuse different flavors into the syrup, orange or lemon can be halved and boiled along with the syrup then removed for a citrus flavor. Additionally you can add a few drops of your favorite extract, aka vanilla, almond, etc. for a completely customizable flavor.

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Can also be used for sweetening iced tea or used in lemonade instead of sugar.

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For a variation, used 2 parts sugar ( 1 part white sugar, 1 part brown sugar : or all brown sugar ) to 1 part water. Use for making sweetened iced tea or in lemonade.

Lime Pepper

Recipe sent in by: D. Archer
For a new fresh taste!

- 4 tsp Granulated Lime Zest *
- 4 tsp Ground Black Pepper
- 4 tsp Salt


1) Combine all ingredients together in a bowl, store in an airtight container or jar. Use in recipes that call for lemon pepper.

Notes:
by D. Archer
To make your own lime zest, zest times with a small metal grater, place zest on a cookie sheet in a 200 degree F oven for an hour or two ( until it dries ). Then crush with a mortar and pestle small enough to use as a spice.

I suppose you could use the same method ( substituting lemon for lime ) for lemon pepper if you wanted your own homemade version.

Simple Cajun Seasoning

Recipe sent in by: D. Archer
Do it yourself and have on hand instead of paying for expensive store prices!

- 2.5 Tbs Salt
- 1 Tbs Dried Oregano
- 1 Tbs Paprika
- 1 Tbs Cayenne Pepper
- 1 Tbs Ground Black Pepper
- 1 Tbs Onion Powder
- 1 Tbs Garlic Powder


1) Mix all ingredients together in a bowl, store in an airtight container or jar.

Notes:
by D. Archer
This seasoning can be placed in a small jar tied with a decorative ribbon, include a recipe that utilizes this seasoning for an easy and fun homemade gift! I bet it would be great sprinkled over french fries.

Party Punch

Recipe sent in by: D. Archer
Super easy and fun to make, great for parties or kids.

- 4 Tbs Instant Iced Tea Mix ( flavor of your choice, in this case I used Passion Fruit Orange )
- 1 packet Kool-aid mix, makes 2 quarts ( again, flavor of your choice, I used black cherry )
- 1 c Sugar
- 1 Can of Sliced Pineapple in juice
- 3.5 quarts water ( More or less to your own taste )


1) In a large pitcher or bowl ( you need to be able to hold 1 gallon of liquid ), put in the kool-aid packet, sugar, and mix with 2 quarts of water.
2) Add in 4 Tbs iced tea mix and 2 cups of water. Mix all together and add in the pineapple WITH the juice. Stir then chill until cold or if there is space, add ice to chill.

Testimonials:
by D. Archer
I made this tonight for a picnic we are having tomorrow, it tastes nice and refreshing! It can be made to look more elegant by adding in slices of orange, served in a wine glass with crushed ice, and topped with a sprig of fresh mint.