Soda Recipe

Dissolve sugar

If using granulated sugar, combine 2 tablespoons sugar with 1 tablespoon warm water in a small bowl or glass and stir until completely dissolved. This creates a quick simple syrup-like solution that blends easily into cold soda. Alternatively, use prepared simple syrup 1:1 instead of granulated sugar.

Fill a tall glass with about 1 cup of ice cubes (adjust to preference).

Add the dissolved sugar solution (or 2 tbs prepared simple syrup) and 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice to the glass.

Add 2 teaspoons of your chosen fruit syrup or cordial. If using muddled fresh flavor (for example, mint or berries), place mint leaves or a few berries in the glass and gently muddle with the back of a spoon for 5–8 seconds to release aroma and flavor before adding ice.

Pour 2 cups (about 480 ml) cold carbonated water over the ice and flavor base. Pour slowly to preserve carbonation.

Add 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and stir gently once or twice with a long spoon to incorporate flavors without flattening the soda.

Taste and adjust: if you want sweeter, add another 1 teaspoon simple syrup; for brighter acidity, add a few more drops of lemon juice; for stronger fruit flavor, add an extra teaspoon of syrup.

Garnish the rim or top of the glass with a lemon or lime wheel and a sprig of mint or a couple of fresh berries as desired.

Serve immediately with a straw or long spoon to keep the carbonation lively.