This recipe is an adaptation from a Martha Stewart recipe for Berry Saft. Saft is a Swedish syrup (elderberries are often used!) that is then mixed with still or sparkling water to make a refreshing summer drink. I swapped the sugar for honey (of course) and used the strawberries that are taking over the garden. You can use any berry (or any combination of berries) that you like. You can also use other herbs--basil would be nice!
Strawberry Sparkler
4 cups strawberries, washed, hulled and halved or quartered
a 2-inch piece of fresh ginger, sliced
2 cups water
1/4 to 1/2 cup honey
4 sprigs of fresh mint
Bring the strawberries, ginger and water to a simmer and cook until fruit is very soft--about 10 minutes. Let the mixture cool and strain through a cheese cloth (or fine mesh strainer). Return to the pot and add the honey--start with 1/4 cup and taste until it's sweetened to your liking. Bring the pot to a low simmer. Add the mint sprigs and simmer, stirring occasionally until the mixture is reduced to a light syrup. Cool completely. Pour into sterilized bottles or jars. It will keep in the refrigerator for several (3?) months. This makes about four cups.
To make the sparkler, fill a glass with ice, add sparkling water and then stir in the syrup--as much or as little as you like.
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