Sodas Recipe

Prepare syrup

Combine 1/2 cup filtered water and 1 cup granulated sugar in a small saucepan. Heat over medium, stirring frequently until sugar dissolves and mixture just comes to a simmer (about 3–4 minutes). Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature. Transfer to a clean jar and refrigerate if not using immediately.

Citrus or juice-based flavors

If using lemon, lime, or orange juice, juice fresh fruit and strain through a fine mesh if pulp-free soda is desired. Measure the amounts called for in the ingredients. For a bright soda: combine 1/2 cup lemon juice (or 1/2 cup orange juice) with 3 tablespoons simple syrup in a small pitcher and stir to combine.

Fruit purée

If using berries or other fruit, blend 1/2 cup fruit until smooth. Strain through a fine-mesh sieve to remove seeds if desired. Mix the strained purée with 2–3 tablespoons simple syrup (adjust sweetness to taste).

Ginger or cola-style

If using ginger syrup, measure 3 tablespoons ginger syrup and combine with 1 tablespoon simple syrup if you want it sweeter. If using store-bought cola syrup or bitters, measure 3 tablespoons and dilute with a tablespoon of simple syrup if it's very concentrated. Stir in 1/2 teaspoon vanilla for depth if desired.

Herbal infusion

Lightly bruise mint leaves or herb sprig to release oils. Add to the flavoring mixture and give a gentle muddle (2–3 presses) or steep briefly (5–10 minutes) then remove leaves to avoid bitter notes.

Fill 4 serving glasses with ice (about 2 cubes per glass or to taste).

For each glass: add 2 tablespoons (about 1 fl oz / 15 ml) of your prepared flavor concentrate (adjust between 1 to 3 tablespoons depending on intensity desired). If you prefer measuring by the batch, combine 1/2 cup flavor mixture with the 4 cups chilled carbonated water.

Pour 1 cup chilled carbonated water into each glass slowly over the back of a spoon or down the side to preserve bubbles, dividing evenly if making a pitcher.

Stir gently once to integrate flavor and soda. Taste and add more simple syrup (1 teaspoon at a time) or flavoring if needed.

Garnish each glass with a citrus wheel or wedge and a few berries or a sprig of mint/herb. Serve immediately while fizzy.

Leftover simple syrup can be stored refrigerated up to 2 weeks. Prepared flavored concentrates last 2–3 days refrigerated; soda is best consumed immediately for maximum effervescence.