Soda Recipe

Make simple flavored syrup

Combine the granulated sugar and 1/2 cup water in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir gently until the sugar fully dissolves and the mixture comes to a gentle simmer (do not boil vigorously).

Once the sugar is dissolved and the liquid is clear, add the citrus juice or chosen flavor base, zest (if using), and the pinch of salt. Keep the heat low and simmer for 2–3 minutes to let the flavors meld. Do not boil hard; you want a light simmer to extract zest oils and integrate juice without reducing too much.

Remove the pan from heat. Stir in the vanilla or other extract if using. Let the syrup cool to room temperature (about 15–20 minutes). If you used zest, strain the syrup through a fine mesh sieve into a clean jar to remove solids. Chill the syrup in the refrigerator if not using immediately.

Assemble soda

Fill a tall glass with about 1/2 to 3/4 cup ice (or roughly 1–2 cups ice depending on glass size). Pour 2–3 tablespoons (30–45 ml) of the prepared syrup over the ice for one 12–16 oz serving. Adjust syrup amount to taste — start with 2 tablespoons for a lightly sweet soda, 3 for medium, or more for sweeter.

Slowly top the glass with 1 to 1 1/4 cups (240–300 ml) very cold sparkling water or club soda, pouring down the side or over the back of a spoon to preserve carbonation. Stir gently once or twice to incorporate the syrup with the soda.

Garnish with a slice of citrus, a sprig of fresh herbs (mint, basil, or thyme), or a few berries if desired. Serve immediately.

For larger batches: combine chilled syrup and cold sparkling water at roughly a 1:8 to 1:12 ratio (syrup to sparkling water) depending on sweetness preference. Mix gently and serve over ice.