Syrups are always great to have on hand. This lemon and vanilla example will add flavour and a sense of occasion to any desert
Makes approximately 400 ml
3 white peppercorns
Zest of 2 lemons
Juice of 2 lemons
1 vanilla pod (plump and oily, or use two)
2 cupswater
1 cup caster sugar
1 Put all the ingredients except the vanilla, into a heavy based saucepan. Stir to combine.
2 Split the vanilla pod lengthwise with the point of a sharp knife and scrape the seeds into the saucepan; add the pod as well. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 10 minutes then cool before pouring into sterilised bottles.
3 Add vodka and or soda and lemon to taste. Also good poured over vanilla bean ice cream.
