Gum syrup and sugar syrup are two types of syrups that are commonly used in cocktails and other beverages. Both are made from sugar dissolved in water, but they have some key differences in their ingredients and uses. So are they really the same thing? Let’s take a closer look.
What is gum syrup?
Gum syrup, also known as gomme syrup, is made by dissolving gum arabic in water. Gum arabic is a natural gum obtained from acacia trees that is used as an emulsifier and thickening agent.
To make gum syrup, gum arabic powder is whisked into hot water and heated until it dissolves. The mixture is then cooled. Gum syrup has a thicker, more viscous texture than simple syrup due to the gum arabic. It also has a subtle sweetness.
Gum syrup is commonly used in cocktails that don’t contain citrus, since the gum arabic helps provide a silky mouthfeel and prevents the drinks from tasting flat. Classic cocktails featuring gum syrup include the Clover Club and the Aviation.
What is sugar syrup?
Sugar syrup, also known as simple syrup, is made by dissolving granulated sugar in hot water. The typical ratio is 1:1, meaning equal parts sugar and water. For example, 1 cup of sugar dissolved in 1 cup of water.
Simple syrup is quick and easy to make. The sugar fully melts into the water when heated, creating a clear, thin, and sweet syrup.
Simple syrup is used in a wide variety of cocktails, especially those containing citrus juices. The syrup helps balance and sweeten the tart citrus flavors. Classic cocktails using simple syrup include the Whiskey Sour, Daiquiri, and Mojito.
Differences between gum syrup and sugar syrup
While both gum syrup and simple syrup are made from sugar and water, there are a few key differences:
Thickness and texture
Gum syrup has a thicker, more viscous texture resembling a light gel due to the gum arabic. Simple syrup is thin like water.
Sweetness
Gum syrup provides subtle sweetness, while simple syrup is very sweet tasting.
Uses
Gum syrup works well in cocktails without citrus. Simple syrup balances the acidity in citrus cocktails.
Shelf life
Due to the preservative properties of gum arabic, gum syrup has a longer shelf life of up to 6 months. Simple syrup lasts 2-3 weeks.
Price
Gum syrup tends to be more expensive to make than simple syrup due to the cost of gum arabic powder. Simple syrup is cheap to make with basic sugar and water.
| Characteristic | Gum Syrup | Simple Syrup |
|---|---|---|
| Thickness | Thick, viscous | Thin, watery |
| Sweetness | Subtle sweetness | Very sweet |
| Uses | Cocktails without citrus | Cocktails with citrus |
| Shelf life | Up to 6 months | 2-3 weeks |
| Price | More expensive | Cheap |
Can they be substituted for each other?
In some cases, gum syrup and simple syrup can be substituted for each other in cocktails, but the drink may turn out slightly different in texture and flavor.
Some guidelines for substituting between the two:
– In cocktails containing citrus juice, simple syrup can be replaced with gum syrup, but the drink will have a thicker, more viscous mouthfeel. The sweetness may be less intense.
– In cocktails without citrus, gum syrup can be replaced with simple syrup, but the drink may taste thinner and the sweetness more pronounced.
– Adjustments may need to be made to the amount used – start with 3/4 of the amount and tweak to taste. The general rule is to use less gum syrup than simple syrup due to the greater sweetness.
– For best results, use the syrup called for in the recipe, or experiment to find the proportions and type of syrup that give your preferred flavor and texture.
How to make gum syrup
Here is a simple recipe and method for making gum syrup at home:
Ingredients:
– 3 ounces (by weight) gum arabic powder
– 16 ounces water
– 16 ounces granulated sugar
Method:
1. Combine the gum arabic and water in a small saucepan. Whisk vigorously until the gum arabic is fully dissolved.
2. Add the sugar and bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring frequently until the sugar fully dissolves.
3. Remove from heat and allow to cool completely. The syrup will thicken as it cools.
4. Transfer to an airtight container and store refrigerated for up to 6 months.
5. Use a 1:1 substitution for simple syrup in cocktails, or adjust to taste preference.
How to make simple syrup
Here is an easy simple syrup recipe:
Ingredients:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup water
Method:
1. Combine the sugar and water in a small saucepan.
2. Heat over medium, stirring occasionally, until the sugar fully dissolves and the liquid is clear.
3. Remove from heat and allow to cool to room temperature.
4. Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2-3 weeks.
5. Use a 1:1 ratio to sweeten cocktails, or adjust to taste.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is gum syrup better than simple syrup?
Gum syrup is not necessarily better than simple syrup, they both have their uses. Gum syrup works well in cocktails without citrus due to its subtle sweetness and silky texture. Simple syrup is ideal for bringing out the flavors of citrus drinks. Use the syrup best suited to the flavors and textures you want.
What is the shelf life of gum syrup vs simple syrup?
Due to the natural preservative properties of gum arabic, gum syrup can last up to 6 months refrigerated. Simple syrup has a shorter shelf life of 2-3 weeks. Always store syrups in clean, sealed containers in the fridge.
Can I make flavored gum syrups?
Yes, gum syrup can be infused with various flavors like herbs, spices, vanilla, or berries. Steep the flavorings in the hot syrup for at least 30 minutes before straining and cooling. Flavored simple syrups can also be made.
What cocktails use gum syrup?
Some classic cocktails featuring gum syrup include the Clover Club, Bee’s Knees, Aviation, and White Lady. Gum syrup works well in cocktails without citrus.
What cocktails use simple syrup?
Simple syrup is used in many iconic cocktails like the Whiskey Sour, Daiquiri, Mojito, Margarita, and Old Fashioned. It balances and enhances citrus flavors.
Conclusion
While gum syrup and simple syrup are both liquid sugars made from sugar and water, they have some distinct differences in their ingredients, texture, sweetness and uses in cocktails. Gum syrup contains gum arabic as an emulsifier, giving it a thicker texture and more subtle sweetness. Simple syrup is thin and very sweet.
Gum syrup brings body and silky mouthfeel to cocktails without citrus. Simple syrup balances and enhances citrus flavors. While they can sometimes be substituted, for best results use the syrup specified in the recipe. Both syrups are useful additions to a well-stocked bar.
