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    Home

    About Pate and The G&M Kitchen

    January 10, 2019

    Hi, I'm Pate, and welcome to The G&M Kitchen!

    The G&M Kitchen is a recipe blog that specializes in southern baked goods. Here you will find classics like buttermilk and honey biscuits and beautiful show stoppers like strawberry basil cupcakes. While all recipes are inspired by traditional southern classics, they all have a twist or adjustment that elevates them and brings them into the modern age.

    Flavors born in Kentucky

    I grew up in Kentucky in an old farmhouse that had been in the family for seven generations. Both sides of my family were very into food, eating, and using good food to celebrate together. This is where the name The G&M Kitchen comes from; the G is for my father's side, the Giltners, and the M for my mother's side, the Millers. The kitchen was always the most exciting part of the house and where you wanted to hang out; it was where all the magic happened. Vegetables were being cooked to death, pies and cakes were being baked, and drinks were always flowing.

    My maternal grandmother was famous for her pies (and she had several blue ribbons to prove it). My mother's greatest compliment to me was that my pie crust was better than hers. (I'm pretty proud of this, and I think it proves my most controversial opinion, that butter will always be better than shortening.)

    The farmhouse in Smithfield Kenutcky

    Tastes that developed in the city

    I have since lived in Los Angeles, Florence, Italy, and London, England, which helped to open my palate to new flavors, textures, and methods. I love French pastry, light English bakes, and creamy Italian deserts and love throwing hints of those into my recipes. Transforming southern classics and flavors into something new with world influences is my favorite aspect of recipe development.

    I moved back to Kentucky in early 2020 and currently reside in Louisville. Thanks so much for stopping by, and feel free to reach out at thegandmkitchen@gmail dot com.

    Fresh Raspberry Simple Syrup

    March 18, 2023

    Raspberry simple syrup in an airtight container on a large wood cutting board.

    Homemade fresh raspberry simple syrup is the perfect way to flavor cocktails, lemonades, or any drink if you want to add a little raspberry flavor! It's just three ingredients and is ready in about 30 minutes! 

    Simple syrup is an easy liquid sweetener that can be added to any drink for added sweetness, and this raspberry version is the perfect raspberry drink or cake enhancer! 

    Raspberry simple syrup in an airtight container on a large wood cutting board.

    Why you will love this recipe:

    Perfect cocktails like a Blackberry Mint Julep or Blackberry Bramble, or drinks like Blackberry Earl Grey Iced Tea, Blackberry Lemonade, sparkling water, blackberry latte, or even blackberry shaved ice!

    This is an easy recipe and much better than using a preservative-added store-bought syrup! This fresh strawberry simple syrup, fresh mint simple syrup, and blackberry simple syrup are also fantastic choices.

    Key Ingredients:

    ingredients for raspberry simple syrup.

    Raspberry: You can use fresh or frozen raspberries, I used fresh for this recipe but frozen works just as well. 

    Water: A traditional simple syrup is equal parts sugar to water.

    Sugar: Sugar is both a sweetener and a preservative. The more sugar, the longer the syrup will keep.

    How to make this recipe:

    Raspberries, sugar, and water in a small white pot.

    Add the raspberries, sugar, and water to a small saucepan.

    Simmered raspberry, sugar, and water in a small white pot.

    Simmer, but don't boil until all the sugar has dissolved and the raspberries have lost shape.

    The syrup being strained into an airtight container.

    Let the mixture cool to room temperature, and then strain.

    Raspberry simple syrup in an airtight container on a large wood cutting board.

    Transfer the syrup to an airtight container and chill or serve!

    Perfect recipes for this syrup:

    • Raspberry Iced Tea
    • Raspberry Lemonade
    • Raspberry Sparkling Water
    • Raspberry Latte
    • Raspberry Shaved Ice  

    Tips for success:

    • Straining: use a fine mesh sieve to strain the skin and seeds out of the syrup. 
    • Crystallization: If the mixture starts crystalizing, lower the heat and gently melt it back into the syrup.
    • Storage: store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up two weeks.

    FAQ

    How to store this recipe:

    Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

    How long does this recipe keep for?

    This syrup will keep for about two weeks.

    Print
    clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
    Raspberry simple syrup in an airtight container on a large wood cutting board.

    Fresh Raspberry Simple Syrup

    • Author: Pate Giltner
    • Prep Time: 5 minutes
    • Cook Time: 20 minutes
    • Total Time: 25 minutes
    • Yield: 1 cup 1x
    • Category: Syrup
    • Method: Cooking
    • Cuisine: American
    Print Recipe
    Pin Recipe

    Description

    Homemade raspberry simple syrup is the perfect way to flavor cocktails, lemonades, or any drink if you want to add a little raspberry flavor! It's just three ingredients and is ready in about 30 minutes! 


    Ingredients

    Units Scale
    • 1 cup water
    • 1 cup sugar
    • Scant 2 cups raspberries

    Instructions

    1. Add the raspberries, sugar, and water to a small saucepan.
    2. Simmer but don't boil the mixture until all the sugar has dissolved and the raspberries have lost their shape.
    3. Let the mixture cool to room temperature, and then strain the raspberries.
    4. Transfer the syrup to an airtight container and chill or serve! 

    Did you make this recipe?

    Share a photo and tag me @thegandmkitchen — I can't wait to see what you've made!

    Fresh Blackberry Simple Syrup

    March 9, 2023

    Blackberry simple syrup in a glass container, sitting on a large wood cutting board surrounded by blackberries and lemons.

    Homemade blackberry simple syrup is the perfect way to flavor cocktails, lemonades, or any drink if you want to add a little blackberry flavor! It's just three ingredients and is ready in about 30 minutes! 

    Simple syrup is an easy liquid sweetener that can be added to any drink for added sweetness, and this blackberry version is the perfect blackberry drink or cake enhancer! 

    Blackberry simple syrup in a glass container, sitting on a large wood cutting board surrounded by blackberries and lemons.

    Why you will love this recipe:

    Perfect cocktails like a Blackberry Mint Julep or Blackberry Bramble, or drinks like Blackberry Earl Grey Iced Tea, Blackberry Lemonade, sparkling water, blackberry latte, or even blackberry shaved ice!

    This is an easy recipe and much better than using a preservative-added store-bought syrup! The fresh strawberry simple syrup is also an amazing choice for strawberry lovers.

    Blackberries, water, and sugar sitting on a brown table.

    Key Ingredients:

    • Blackberries: You can use fresh or frozen blackberries, I used fresh for this recipe but frozen works just as well. 
    • Water: A traditional simple syrup is equal parts sugar to water.
    • Sugar: Sugar is both a sweetener and a preservative. The more sugar, the longer the syrup will keep.

    See recipe card for quantities.

    How to make this recipe:

    The blackberries, sugar, and water sitting in a small pot.

    Add the blackberries, sugar, and water to a small saucepan.

    The Cooked blackberries sitting in a small pot.

    Simmer, but don't boil the mixture until all the sugar has dissolved and the blackberries have lost their shape.

    The syrup being strained unto an air tight jar.

    Let the mixture cool to room temperature, and then strain.

    Blackberry simple syrup in a glass container, sitting on a large wood cutting board surrounded by blackberries and lemons.

    Transfer the syrup to an airtight container and chill or serve!

    Top tips

    • Straining: use a fine mesh sieve to strain the skin and seeds out of the syrup. 
    • Crystallization: Lower the heat and gently melt it back into the syrup if the mixture starts crystallizing.
    • Storage: store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up two weeks.

    Variations:

    You can use this recipe to make loads of syrups to your tastes. 

    • Add herbs like mint or basil. Basil and blackberries are a great combination, and add mint for a blackberry mint julep!
    • Use brown sugar for a deeper, more molasses flavor.
    • Use different fruits, strawberries, rhubarb, or raspberries.

    Perfect recipes for this syrup:

    • Blackberry Iced Tea
    • Blackberry Lemonade
    • Blackberry Sparkling Water
    • Blackberry Latte
    • Blackberry Shaved Ice  

    FAQ

    How to store this recipe:

    Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

    How long does this recipe keep for?

    This syrup will keep for about two weeks.

    Print
    clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
    Blackberry simple syrup in a glass container, sitting on a large wood cutting board surrounded by blackberries and lemons.

    Fresh Blackberry Simple Syrup

    ★★★★★ 5 from 1 reviews
    • Author: Pate Giltner
    • Prep Time: 5 minutes
    • Cook Time: 30 minutes
    • Total Time: 35 minutes
    • Yield: 1 cup syrup 1x
    • Category: Syrup
    • Method: cooked
    • Cuisine: american
    Print Recipe
    Pin Recipe

    Description

    Homemade blackberry simple syrup is the perfect way to flavor cocktails, lemonades, or any drink if you want to add a little blackberry flavor! It's just three ingredients and is ready in about 30 minutes! 


    Ingredients

    Units Scale
    • 1 cup water
    • 1 cup sugar
    • Scant 2 cups blackberries

    Instructions

    1. Add the blackberries, sugar, and water to a small saucepan.
    2. Simmer but don't boil the mixture until all the sugar has dissolved and the blackberries have lost their shape.
    3. Let the mixture cool to room temperature, and then strain the strawberries.
    4. Transfer the syrup to an airtight container and chill or serve! 

    Did you make this recipe?

    Share a photo and tag me @thegandmkitchen — I can't wait to see what you've made!

    Sweet Strawberry Iced Tea

    March 3, 2023

    Strawberry iced tea in a gold rimmed wine glass on a brown table.

    This is the perfect strawberry iced tea, proving that fresh strawberries and iced tea are a match made in heaven! Use your favorite tea, chill, then add fresh strawberry simple syrup, and enjoy!

    Iced sweet tea is a hallmark of summer, and this strawberry version is the perfect something special on hot days! It's simple to make and the perfect treat for summer guests!

    Strawberry iced tea in a gold rimmed wine glass on a brown table.
    [feast_advanced_jump_to]

    Why you will love this recipe:

    The best tea I've ever had was an iced tea in Charleston, South Carolina. It was perfectly brewed chilled tea that came with simple syrup on the side so that you could sweeten it as you pleased. It was amazing! 

    That experience inspired this iced tea made with fresh simple strawberry syrup! You can pour the syrup into the tea pitcher for a big batch or serve it on the side so that people can sweeten it how they desire!

    Key Ingredients:

    Ingredients for the tea on brown table.

    Fresh Strawberry Simple Syrup: this easy and simple homemade syrup is made with fresh strawberries, water, and sugar. 

    Water: filtered water is best for brewing tea, but tap works perfectly fine. 

    Black, Green, or White Tea bags: use your favorite tea that will pair well with strawberries. My favorite is black breakfast tea, but there isn't a wrong choice. 

    See recipe card for quantities.

    How to make this recipe: 

    The tea brewing in a small pot.

    Start by brewing the tea. Boil 5 cups of water then steep tea bags in the water for 5 minutes. Then add 1 cup of cold water and chill until cool. About 1 hour.

    Cook the strawberries until they are pale.

    Make the strawberry simple syrup by cooking the sugar, water, and strawberries until the strawberries are soft. Let cool and strain.

    Add the tea and syrup to a glass filled with ice.

    Add ice to glasses, add 1-2 ounces of strawberry syrup, and top with the chilled tea. Or serve the syrup on the side and allow your guests to sweeten their tea to how they like it.

    Hint: You can also make a full pitcher. Add the chilled tea to a pitcher with ice, and then add as much syrup as you desire—½ cup for lightly sweetened tea and the full 1 cup for very sweet tea.

    Substitutions

    • You can turn this tea into any fruit tea you like by switching out the strawberries in the syrup for your favorite berry. Blackberry, raspberry, or blueberry would all be delicious!
    • You can also make this eat even easier by using store-bought unsweetened iced tea and/or using store-bought strawberry syrup.
    Strawberry iced tea in a gold rimmed wine glass on a brown table. Garnished with strawberries and dried lemon.

    Variations

    Add fresh herbs to give more depth of flavor!

    • Add fresh mint or basil to the chilled tea adds a wonderful flavor.

    Top tip

    When entertaining, serve the syrup on the side so guests can sweeten their tea to their desired sweetness.

    FAQ

    How long will this recipe keep?

    The brewed tea will keep in the refrigerator for 2-3 days and the syrup will keep for two weeks in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

    The tea being stirred in a gold rimmed wine glass.
    Print
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    Strawberry iced tea in a gold rimmed wine glass on a brown table.

    Sweet Strawberry Iced Tea

    ★★★★★ 5 from 1 reviews
    • Author: Pate Giltner
    • Prep Time: 1 hour
    • Cook Time: 20 minutes
    • Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
    • Yield: 4 glasses 1x
    • Category: Beverage
    • Method: cooked
    • Cuisine: american
    Print Recipe
    Pin Recipe

    Description

    Fresh strawberries and iced tea are a match made in heaven! Use your favorite tea, chill, then add fresh strawberry simple syrup, and enjoy!


    Ingredients

    Units Scale

    Tea:

    • 4 tea bags
    • 5 cups boiled water
    • 1 cup cold water

    Syrup:

    • Two cups sliced strawberries
    • 1 cup sugar
    • 1 cup water

    Instructions

    1. Start by brewing the tea. Boil 5 cups of water then steep 4 bags of tea in the water for 5-10 minutes. Then add 1 cup of cold water and chill until cool. About 1 hour.
    2. Make the strawberry simple syrup by cooking the sugar, water, and strawberries until the strawberries are soft and dull in color. Let cool and strain into a milk jug or glass.
    3. Add ice to glasses, add 1-2 ounces of strawberry syrup, top with the chilled tea, and stir. Or serve the syrup on the side and allow your guests to sweeten their tea to how they like it.
    4. You can also make a full pitcher. Add as much syrup to a pitcher of tea as you desire, ½ cup for lightly sweetened tea and the full 1 cup for very sweet tea.  

    Notes

    • Serve strawberry syrup on the side for best results. This allows people to sweeten the tea to their tastes.
    • If making a pitcher, stir well right before serving. The syrup is heavier than the tea and will sink to the bottom, making the last few glasses sweeter. 

    Did you make this recipe?

    Share a photo and tag me @thegandmkitchen — I can't wait to see what you've made!

    Fresh Mint Simple Syrup

    March 1, 2023

    Mint simple syrup in a sealed jar surrounded by mint and white flowers.

    Mint Simple Syrup is a must for the Kentucky Derby and summer seasons! This syrup is the perfect way to make a Mint Julep, mojito, or any other drink that could use a bit of sweet fresh mint flavor.

     It's just three ingredients, is ready in about 30 minutes, and is perfect for making a large batch of Mint Juleps or Mojitos!

    Mint simple syrup in a sealed jar surrounded by mint and white flowers.

    Why you will love this recipe:

    Perfect cocktails like this The Best Mint Julep Recipe, or the classic mojito, or drinks like Mint Sweet Iced Tea, Minty Lemonade, sparkling water, or mint latte!

    This is an easy recipe and much better than using a preservative-added store-bought syrup! This fresh strawberry simple syrup is also an amazing choice for strawberry lovers.

    Ingredients for mint simple syrup on a brown table.

    Key Ingredients:

    Bunch of Fresh Mint: fresh mint is key for this simple minty syrup. Use fresh mint and not dried, and look for crisp and strong leaves. 

    Water: A traditional simple syrup is equal parts sugar to water.

    Sugar: Sugar is both a sweetener and a preservative. The more sugar, the longer the syrup will keep.

    See recipe card for quantities.

    How to make this recipe:

    Water being poured into a pot with sugar.

    Add the mint, sugar, and water to a small saucepan.

    Fresh mint in with the sugar and water.

    Simmer but don't boil the mixture until all the sugar has dissolved and the mint has darkened.

    The syrup being strained into a jar.

    Let the mixture cool to room temperature, and then strain.

    Mint simple syrup in a sealed jar surrounded by mint and white flowers.

    Transfer the syrup to an airtight container and chill or serve!

    Tips

    • Straining: use a fine mesh sieve to strain the leaves out of the syrup. 
    • Crystallization: If the mixture starts crystalizing, lower the heat and gently melt it back into the syrup.
    • Storage: store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up two weeks.

    Variations:

    You can use this recipe to make loads of syrups to your tastes. 

    • Use brown sugar for a deeper, more molasses flavor.
    • Use different fruits, strawberries, rhubarb, or raspberries for a flavored mint syrup! This would be perfect for flavored mojitos or mint juleps!

    How to use this syrup:

    • Mint Juleps
    • Mojitos 
    • Mint Sparkling Water
    • Minty Iced Sweet Tea

    FAQ's

    How to store this recipe:

    Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

    How long does this recipe keep for?

    This syrup will keep for about two weeks.

    Print
    clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
    Mint simple syrup in a sealed jar surrounded by mint and white flowers.

    Fresh Mint Simple Syrup

    ★★★★★ 5 from 1 reviews
    • Author: Pate Giltner
    • Prep Time: 1 minutes
    • Cook Time: 20 minutes
    • Total Time: 21 minutes
    • Yield: 1 cup 1x
    • Category: Syrup
    • Method: Cooking
    • Cuisine: American
    Print Recipe
    Pin Recipe

    Description

    This syrup is the perfect way to make a Mint Julep, mojito, or any other drink that could use a bit of sweet fresh mint flavor.


    Ingredients

    Units Scale
    • 1 cup water
    • 1 cup sugar
    • 1 bunch of fresh mint (about ⅓ cup)

    Instructions

    1. Remove the mint leaves from their stems and add them, sugar, and water to a small saucepan.
    2. Simmer but don't boil the mixture until all the sugar has dissolved and the mint has darkened.
    3. Let the mixture cool to room temperature, and then strain the mint.
    4. Transfer the syrup to an airtight container and chill or serve! 

    Did you make this recipe?

    Share a photo and tag me @thegandmkitchen — I can't wait to see what you've made!

    Strawberry Aperol Spritz

    February 25, 2023

    A strawberry Aperol Spritz on a brown table and garnished with flower ice, orange slice, and a strawberry.

    If you love the traditional Aperol Spritz, this Strawberry Aperol Spritz will be a fun addition to your cocktail rotation! It's all the great taste of the beloved version but with a wonderful hit of strawberry!

    Strawberry and orange are always a fabulous flavor combination, and they are at their height in this spritz! The bitter orange Aperol perfectly compliments the sweet strawberry syrup and bubbly prosecco. 

    A strawberry Aperol Spritz on a brown table and garnished with flower ice, orange slice, and a strawberry.
    [feast_advanced_jump_to]

    Why you will love this recipe:

    I am such a fan of spritzes! There is something so festive and special about prosecco mixed with delicious liquors! This Refreshing Limoncello Spritz is another one of my favorites! 

    This strawberry version with Aperol is such a fun twist on the Italian classic and adds extra deliciousness to the cocktail. 

    About this recipe:

    • Taste - The slightly bitter orange-flavored Aperol is mellowed by the sparkling wine and enhanced by the sweet strawberry making this cocktail taste of sparkling orange and strawberry. 
    • Effort - Easy! This cocktail is just three store-bought ingredients!
    • Notes: you do need a jiggler or cocktail measurer because the balance between the Aperol and strawberry is delicate
    Ingredients for a strawberry aperol spritz on a brown table.

    Key Ingredients:

    Aperol: it wouldn't be a spritz without Aperol! There is only one brand, and it is very easy to find in all liquor stores.

    Processo or sparkling wine: the limoncello is mellowed by the chilled wine, making it a really refreshing cocktail. Use any sparkling wine you like, but I always use prosecco to keep with this spritz Italian roots. 

    Strawberry simple syrup: you can use store-bought, but this homemade fresh strawberry simple syrup is the best version.

    See recipe card for quantities.

    How to make this recipe:

    Ice with little flowers frozen in the cubes.

    Make flower ice by freezing edible flowers with water in an ice cube tray.

    All the liquid ingredients have been added to a large wine glass.

    Add the ice, prosecco, Aperol, strawberry syrup, and sparkling water to the glass in that order.

    The cocktail has been garnished with an orange slice and a strawberry.

    Stir and garnish with an orange slice and strawberry.

    Print
    clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
    A strawberry Aperol Spritz on a brown table and garnished with flower ice, orange slice, and a strawberry.

    Strawberry Aperol Spritz

    ★★★★★ 5 from 1 reviews
    • Author: Pate Giltner
    • Prep Time: 5 minutes plus 30 minutes if making homemade syrup
    • Cook Time: 0 minutes
    • Total Time: 37 minute
    • Yield: 1 cocktail 1x
    Print Recipe
    Pin Recipe

    Description

    If you love the traditional Aperol Spritz, this Strawberry Aperol Spritz will be a fun addition to your cocktail rotation! It's all the great taste of the beloved version but with a wonderful hit of strawberry!


    Ingredients

    Scale
    1. 3 oz prosecco
    2. 2 oz Aperol
    3. 2 oz strawberry syrup
    4. 1 oz sparkling water

    Instructions

    1. Make flower ice by freezing edible flowers with water in an ice cube tray.
    2. Add the ice, prosecco, Aperol, strawberry syrup, and sparkling water to the glass in that order.
    3. Stir and garnish with an orange slice and strawberry.

    Did you make this recipe?

    Share a photo and tag me @thegandmkitchen — I can't wait to see what you've made!

    Fresh Strawberry Simple Syrup

    February 25, 2023

    Strawberry simple syrup in an airtight jar and sitting on a wood cutting board. Strawberries are sitting all around the syrup.

    Strawberry simple syrup is the perfect way to flavor cocktails, lemonades, or any drink that would benefit from some fresh strawberry flavor! It's just three ingredients and is ready in about 30 minutes! 

    Simple syrup is an easy liquid sweetener that can be added to any drink for added sweetness, and this strawberry version is the perfect strawberry drink enhancer! 

    Strawberry simple syrup in an airtight jar and sitting on a wood cutting board. Strawberries are sitting all around the syrup.
    [feast_advanced_jump_to]

    Why you will love this recipe:

    Perfect cocktails like a Strawberry Aperol Spritz or drinks like Strawberry Iced tea, strawberry lemonade, sparkling strawberry water, strawberry latte, or even for strawberry shaved ice!

    This is an easy recipe and much better than using a preservative-added store-bought syrup! 

    Ingredients for the simple syrup on a wood cutting board.

    Key Ingredients:

    Strawberries: You can use fresh or frozen strawberries,I used fresh for this recipe but frozen works just as well. 

    Water: A traditional simple syrup is equal parts sugar to water.

    Sugar: Sugar is both a sweetener and a preservative. The more sugar, the longer the syrup will keep.

    See recipe card for quantities.

    How to make this recipe:

    Sliced Strawberries on a cutting board.

    Start by slicing the strawberries. If using frozen, you can skip this step.

    Water, strawberries, and sugar in a sauce pan.

    Add the strawberries, sugar, and water to a small saucepan.

    Cook the strawberries until they are pale.

    Simmer but don't boil the mixture until all the sugar has dissolved and the strawberries have softened.

    Strain the syrup.

    Let the mixture cool to room temperature, and then strain the strawberries.

    Tips for success:

    • Straining: use a fine mesh sieve to strain the strawberries out. You don't want any strawberry chunks ending up in the syrup. This will shorten the shelf life of the syrup.
    • Crystallization: If the mixture starts crystalizing, lower the heat and gently melt it back into the syrup.
    • Storage: store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up two weeks.

    Variations:

    You can use this recipe to make loads of syrups to your tastes. 

    • Add herbs like mint or basil. 
    • Use brown sugar for a deeper, more molasses flavor.
    • Use different fruits, blackberries, rhubarb, or raspberries.
    The syrup in an open jar.

    Perfect recipes for this syrup:

    • Strawberry Aperol Spritz
    • Strawberry Iced Tea
    • Strawberry Lemonade
    • Strawberry Sparkling Water
    • Strawberry Latte  

    FAQ

    How to store this recipe:

    Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

    How long does this recipe keep for?

    This syrup will keep for about two weeks.

    Print
    clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
    Strawberry simple syrup in an airtight jar and sitting on a wood cutting board. Strawberries are sitting all around the syrup.

    Fresh Strawberry Simple Syrup

    ★★★★★ 5 from 2 reviews
    • Author: Pate Giltner
    • Prep Time: 5 minutes
    • Cook Time: 20 minutes
    • Total Time: 25 minutes
    • Yield: 1 cup 1x
    • Category: Syrup
    • Method: stovetop
    • Cuisine: american
    Print Recipe
    Pin Recipe

    Description

    Strawberry simple syrup is the perfect way to flavor cocktails, lemonades, or any drink that would benefit from some fresh strawberry flavor!


    Ingredients

    Units Scale
    1. 1 cup water
    2. 1 cup sugar
    3. Scant 2 cups cut strawberries

    Instructions

    1. Start by slicing the strawberries. If using frozen, you can skip this step.
    2. Add the strawberries, sugar, and water to a small saucepan.
    3. Simmer but don't boil the mixture until all the sugar has dissolved and the strawberries have softened and paled.
    4. Let the mixture cool to room temperature, and then strain the strawberries.
    5. Transfer the syrup to an airtight container and chill or serve! 

     


    Did you make this recipe?

    Share a photo and tag me @thegandmkitchen — I can't wait to see what you've made!

    Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls

    February 11, 2023

    90 degree close up shot of the egg rolls drizzled with blue cheese.

    These cheesy and gooey buffalo egg rolls take everybody's favorite buffalo chicken, adds a little cheddar and mozzarella cheese, and stuffs it into a crispy egg roll shell! This recipe has instructions for a deep-fried, pan-fried, or oven-baked version, all of which are delicious!

    These egg rolls are the perfect appetizer and will quickly become your favorite way to enjoy buffalo chicken. You can also serve them with these easy mini buffalo chicken stuffed peppers.

    14 buffalo chicken egg rolls on a baking sheet with two little bowls one with blue cheese dressing and one full of chives.
    [feast_advanced_jump_to]
    Ingredients for the buffalo chicken egg rolls on a brown table.

    Key Ingredients:

    Shredded chicken: I prefer to use a rotisserie chicken or to boil chicken breasts in water with salt and pepper and shred it by hand, but do whatever method is easiest for you.

    Hot Sauce: Frank's RedHot Sauce is ideal for making buffalo sauce! Combine it with a little white vinegar, butter, and garlic powder, and you have an amazing buffalo sauce!

    Shredded Cheeses: cheddar and mozzarella cheese add flavor and creaminess to the chicken so that you don't have to add any overpowering cream cheese. 

    Green Chilies: a can of green hatch chilies adds a little smokiness and depth to balance out the hot sauce. 

    Egg Roll Wrappers: these wrappers are great because they get super crispy when fried or baked!

    How to make this recipe:

    The ingredients for the buffalo sauce in a sauce pan.

    Start making the buffalo sauce by cooking the hot sauce with a stick of butter, vinegar, and garlic powder until melted and fully combined.

    The buffalo sauce, chiles, and cheeses have been added to the bowl with the chicken.

    Then combine the sauce with the shredded chicken, green chilies, and cheese.

    A egg roll wrapper with buffalo chicken mixture on top.

    Assemble the wontons by adding 1 ½-2 tablespoons of filling in between the center and one of the corners of the egg roll. Dip your finger in water and trace the perimeter of the egg roll with water. Roll the tip of the corner up and under the chicken mixture.

    The sides of the egg roll rolled up.

    Fold up the sides of the wrapper and press to seal.

    The rolled up egg roll.

    Roll the egg roll over the remaining section and set aside.

    The egg rolls frying in oil.

    Then deep fry (pictured), pan fry, or bake!

    How to deep fry these egg rolls (pictured):

    Deep frying is really easy; you just need a large heavy-bottomed pot, a candy thermometer, and enough vegetable oil to be 3 inches deep. 

    • Start by heating your oil over medium-high heat. Watch the temperature closely and adjust the heat to keep the oil at about 375 degrees. 
    • Using a slotted spoon add 2-4 wontons to the oil and fry for 3-4 minutes.
    • Remove them from the oil on top of a paper towel-lined plate to cool.

    How to pan fry (preferred):

    Pan-frying these with olive oil takes a little more time and effort (but not much), but it makes just as crispy crust as frying. This version also tastes the best; the only downside is that they don't puff up as much as they do when deep-fried. 

    • Add one tablespoon of olive oil to a large nonstick skillet.
    • Heat on medium-high until the oil is bubbling.
    • Add a few wontons to the skillet, being careful not to overcrowd the skillet.
    • Cook for 2 minutes on each side.
    90 degree close up shot of the egg rolls drizzled with blue cheese.

    How to bake in the oven:

    This is such an easy way to cook these, and they still get super crispy. The downside with this method is that the wontons don't get that bubbly fried texture.

    • Preheat the oven to 425 degrees.
    • Brush the rolls with olive oil and add to a lined baking sheet.
    • Bake for 20 minutes flipping the rolls halfway through. 

    Top tip

    Roughly chop the shredded chicken to easily stuff the wontons and it makes them easier to bite into. Long strands of of chicken are too bulky for easy eating.

    Serve with blue cheese or ranch dressing!

    FAQ

    Can you freeze these egg rolls?

    Yes! Just cook the egg rolls as desired, allow to cool, then add to an air tight container and freeze!

    Print
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    90 degree close up shot of the egg rolls drizzled with blue cheese.

    Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls

    ★★★★★ 5 from 1 reviews
    • Author: Pate Giltner
    • Prep Time: 20-30 minutes
    • Cook Time: 20 minutes
    • Total Time: 57 minute
    • Yield: 15 egg rolls 1x
    • Category: Appetizer
    • Method: various
    • Cuisine: American
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    Description

    These cheesy and gooey buffalo egg rolls take everybody's favorite buffalo chicken, adds a little cheddar and mozzarella cheese, and stuffs it into a crispy egg roll shell! This recipe has instructions for a deep-fried, pan-fried, or oven-baked version, all of which are delicious!


    Ingredients

    Scale
    • 3 cups shredded and roughly chopped chicken
    • 1 cup hot sauce such as Franks
    • ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
    • ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
    • 1 4 oz can of green chilies
    • 14-15 egg roll wrappers

    Instructions

    1. Shred and roughly chop the chicken. I prefer to use a rotisserie chicken but use any chicken cooking method you prefer. Chop the chicken so that the shredded sections do not exceed ½ inch. 
    2. Make the buffalo sauce by adding the hot sauce, stick of butter, vinegar, and garlic powder to a small-medium pot and cook on medium-low until the butter has melted. 
    3. Add the sauce, ½ cup cheddar cheese, ½ cup mozzarella cheese, and green chilies to the shredded chicken and set aside. 
    4. Assemble the wontons. Assemble the wontons by adding 1 ½-2 tablespoons of filling in between the center and one of the corners of the wontons. Dip your finger in water and trace the perimeter of the wonton with water. Roll the tip of the corner up and under the chicken mixture. Fold up the sides of the wrapper and press to seal.
    5. Cook:

    Deep Fry (pictured): 

    • Start by heating your oil over medium-high heat. Watch the temperature closely and adjust the heat to keep the oil at about 375 degrees. 
    • Using a slotted spoon add 2-4 wontons to the oil and fry for 3-4 minutes.
    • Remove them from the oil on top of a paper towel-lined plate to cool.

    Pan Fry:

    • Add one tablespoon of olive oil to a large nonstick skillet.
    • Heat on medium-high until the oil is bubbling.
    • Add a few wontons to the skillet, being careful not to overcrowd the skillet.
    • Cook for 2 minutes on each side.

    Bake:

    • Preheat the oven to 425 degrees.
    • Brush the rolls with olive oil and add to a lined baking sheet.
    • Bake for 20 minutes flipping the rolls halfway through. 

    Did you make this recipe?

    Share a photo and tag me @thegandmkitchen — I can't wait to see what you've made!

    Spicy Grapefruit Ranch Water

    February 10, 2023

    Overhead shot of ranch water in a highball glass and garnished with slices of grapefruit, lime, and jalapeño.

    This low-ABV Grapefruit Ranch Water is healthy, easy, and so delicious! It's like a homemade seltzer and is a spicy and fruity spin on the classic Texas Ranch Water with jalapeno, grapefruit juice, tequila, and Topo-Chico sparkling water! This is the perfect cocktail to keep you both hydrated and here for the party! 

    Grapefruit juice makes a great cocktail; if you like this one, check out The Best Fresh Grapefruit Margarita and this Perfectly Pink Rose Grapefruit Sangria.

    Overhead shot of ranch water in a highball glass and garnished with slices of grapefruit, lime, and jalapeño.
    [feast_advanced_jump_to]

    What is Ranch Water?

    Texas Ranch water is a highball cocktail made up of tequila, lime juice, and Topo-Chico sparkling mineral water. This cocktail originated in West Texas as a refreshing way to cool off on hot Texas Days. Traditionally this is a very potent drink with up to 3 ounces of Blanco Tequila in each drink. This low-alcohol version has just one ounce for a healthier spin, but it still has enough that you taste the good tequila. 

    What are Low-ABV Cocktails?

    These types of drinks and spirits are low in alcohol by volume and typically sit between 10%-30% alcohol. They are perfect for when yu want to indulge but not too much. At 13% ABV, this is a perfect ABV drink!

    Tequila, Topo-Chico, grapefruit, lime, jalapeno on a brown table.

    Key Ingredients:

    Blanco Tequila: the trick to a good margarita is good ingredients, so use good tequila- my favorites are Casamigos and Espolòn's Blanco. But here is a great list if you want more recommendations. Bonus points if you get one with notes of citrus. 

    Fresh Pink Grapefruit Juice: you can use fresh squeezed or store-bought grapefruit juice, but fresh-squeezed usually tastes best.

    Lime Juice: just a little bit of lime juice adds brightness and complements the grapefruit.

    Jalapeno: a few slices of jalapeno add a bit of flavor and spice and makes a well-rounded drink.

    Topo-Chico: this sparkling water from Mexico is full of bubbles which makes it perfect for this sparkling cocktail!

    How to make this drink:

    A picture showing a muddler in a highball glass with jalapeño slices and tequila.

    Add the slices of jalapeno to a highball glass and pour in the tequila. Muddle with a muddler or wooden spoon.

    Grapefruit juice has been added to the glass.

    Add enough ice to fill up the glass and top it with grapefruit and lime juice.

    The cocktail has been topped with topo-chico.

    Top with Topo-Chico and stir!

    The finished cocktail garnished with grapefruit.

    Then garnish with grapefruit slices.

    Variations & Substitutions 

    You can make so many different versions of this drink! The traditional cocktail is just lime juice, tequila, and sparkling water. Get creative and switch the grapefruit for your favorite fruit juice. Pomegranate, cranberry, or orange would all be delicious options.

    Print
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    Overhead shot of ranch water in a highball glass and garnished with slices of grapefruit, lime, and jalapeño.

    Spicy Grapefruit Ranch Water

    ★★★★★ 5 from 1 reviews
    • Author: Pate Giltner
    • Prep Time: 5 minutes
    • Cook Time: 0 minutes
    • Total Time: 5 minutes
    • Yield: 1 cocktail 1x
    • Category: Cocktail
    • Method: Stirred
    • Cuisine: American
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    Description

    This low-ABV Grapefruit Ranch Water is healthy, easy, and so delicious! It's like a homemade seltzer and is a spicy and fruity spin on the classic Texas Ranch Water with jalapeno, grapefruit juice, tequila, and Topo-Chico sparkling water! 


    Ingredients

    Units Scale
    • 3 slices of jalapeno
    • 1 oz tequila
    • ½ oz lime juice
    • 3 oz grapefruit juice
    • 3 oz Topo-Chico

    Instructions

    1. Add the slices of jalapeno to a highball glass.
    2. Pour in the tequila and muddle with a muddler or wooden spoon. 
    3. Add enough ice to fill up the glass and top it with grapefruit and lime juice. 
    4. Top with Topo-Chico and stir!

    Did you make this recipe?

    Share a photo and tag me @thegandmkitchen — I can't wait to see what you've made!

    Easy Mini Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers

    February 9, 2023

    Mini sweet peppers filled with buffalo chicken and drizzled with blue cheese.

    Who doesn't anything buffalo chicken?! The spicy orange hot sauce is my kryptonite, and this version of mini buffalo chicken stuffed peppers is a healthier, low-carb, and gluten-free way to enjoy buffalo chicken! This recipe also uses no cream cheese, which I think overpowers most buffalo appetizers. 

    These mini sweet peppers stuffed with spicy, savory, and cheesy buffalo chicken are the perfect appetizer for game day or family gatherings!

    Mini sweet peppers filled with buffalo chicken and drizzled with blue cheese.
    [feast_advanced_jump_to]

    Why you will love this recipe:

    I love anything buffalo chicken, but I also love to keep things on the healthier side whenever possible. This version with mini sweet peppers adds some wonderful nutrients, and the sweet peppers taste so wonderful with the spicy chicken. I also love an appetizer that serves a group! Serve these along with Jalapeno Cheddar Cornbread!

    Ingredients for the peppers on a brown table.

    Key Ingredients:

    Shredded chicken: I prefer to use a rotisserie chicken or to boil chicken breasts in water with salt and pepper and shred it by hand, but do whatever method is easiest for you.

    Hot Sauce: Frank's RedHot Sauce is ideal for making buffalo sauce! Combine it with a little white vinegar, butter, and garlic powder, and you have an amazing buffalo sauce!

    Mini Sweet Peppers: purchase mini peppers on the larger end to ensure that there is enough room for stuffing. 

    Shredded Cheeses: cheddar and mozzarella cheese add flavor and creaminess to the chicken so that you don't have to add any overpowering cream cheese. 

    Green Chilies: a can of green hatch chilies adds a little smokiness and depth to balance out the hot sauce. 

    How to make this recipe:

    Shredded chicken in a beige bowl.

    Start by shredding and roughly chopping the chicken.

    The ingredients for the buffalo sauce in a sauce pan.

    Then make the buffalo sauce by cooking the hot sauce with a stick of butter, vinegar, and garlic powder until melted and fully combined.

    The buffalo sauce, chiles, and cheeses have been added to the bowl with the chicken.

    Add the sauce to the chicken and add the shredded cheese and green chilies.

    The sliced peppers being brushed with olive oil on a baking sheet,

    Slice the mini peppers in half and brush with olive oil. Line the peppers on a rimmed baking sheet and fill with about 1 tablespoon of the chicken mixture.

    The finished peppers ready to be baked!

    Top tip

    Roughly chop the shredded chicken to easily stuff the peppers and it makes the peppers easier to bite into. Long strands of of chicken are too bulky for these little peppers.

    Use your fingers to push the chicken into the peppers to make sure it fills every crevasse.

    The baked peppers on a baking tray drizzled with blue cheese.

    FAQ

    Can these be made ahead of time?

    Yes, just prepare peppers and then cover in plastic wrap or seal them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days and bake when ready to serve!

    Can these be reheated?

    Absolutely! For best results heat in the oven at 350 for 10-12 minutes.

    Print
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    Mini sweet peppers filled with buffalo chicken and drizzled with blue cheese.

    Easy & Cheesy Mini Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers

    ★★★★★ 5 from 1 reviews
    • Author: Pate Giltner
    • Prep Time: 15 minutes
    • Cook Time: 15 minutes
    • Total Time: 30 minutes
    • Yield: Aprox 24 peppers halfs 1x
    • Category: Appetizer
    • Method: Baking
    • Cuisine: American
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    Description

    The spicy orange hot sauce is my kryptonite, and this version of mini buffalo chicken stuffed peppers is a healthier, low-carb, and gluten-free way to enjoy buffalo chicken!


    Ingredients

    Units Scale
    • 3 cups shredded chicken
    • 1 cup hot sauce such as Franks
    • ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese + plus more for sprinkling
    • ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese + plus more for sprikling
    • 1 4 oz can of green chilies
    • About 12 mini sweet peppers

    Instructions

    1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. 
    2. Shred and roughly chop the chicken. I prefer to use a rotisserie chicken but use any chicken cooking method you prefer. Chop the chicken so that the shredded sections do not exceed ½ inch. 
    3. Make the buffalo sauce by adding the hot sauce, stick of butter, vinegar, and garlic powder to a small-medium pot and cook on medium-low until the butter has melted. 
    4. Add the sauce, ½ cup cheddar cheese, ½ cup mozzarella cheese, and green chilies to the shredded chicken and set aside. 
    5. Slice the mini peppers in half and brush with olive oil. Line the peppers up on a rimmed baking sheet and fill with about 1 tablespoon of the chicken mixture. 
    6. Sprinkle with more cheese, bake for 12-14 minutes, and serve with blue cheese or ranch dip. 

    Did you make this recipe?

    Share a photo and tag me @thegandmkitchen — I can't wait to see what you've made!

    Spaghetti Bolognese made with Bourbon

    February 5, 2023

    A brown bowl full of bolognese pasta, sprinkled with parma cheese, thyme, and with two glasses of bourbon above and below.

    This is the richest and meatiest bolognese sauce because it's cooked down with bourbon and cream! Bourbon is a prime cooking ingredient here in Kentucky, and it compliments and sweetens the beef to make the perfect spaghetti bolognese made with bourbon sauce. 

    A brown bowl full of bolognese pasta, sprinkled with parma cheese, thyme, and with two glasses of bourbon above and below.

    This is one of my favorite dishes to make and is one of my savory favorites, and its perfect to sereve with some fresh herb focaccia bread!

    Key Ingredients:

    Ground Beef: this recipe was made to be simple, so we use just one type of meat, and it becomes so flavorful from cooking in the bourbon, cream, and tomato paste. 

    Bourbon: Bourbon is a great paring to meat, and this recipe switches out the traditional red wine for bourbon. I typically cook with Woodford Reserve because it has the most balanced flavors and doesn't veer too sweet or spicy.

    Tomato Paste: tomato paste binds all the ingredients together and adds depth to the meat!

    Cream: Heavy cream adds even more richness to the sauce! 

    The ingredients for the bourbon bolognese on a brown table.

    How to make this recipe:

    The beef browning in a dutch oven.

    Start by browning the ground beef.

    The pancetta cooking in a dutch oven.

    Then cook the pancetta until crispy.

    The onion, celery, carrots gooding in the same dutch oven,

    Add in the onion, celery, onion, carrot, and garlic.

    The beef has been added back to the pot and is cooking with the bourbon.

    Add beef back to pot and bourbon, and cook until all the bourbon is absorbed.

    Tomato paste and spices are sitting on top of the cooking beef.

    Add tomato paste, bay leaf, and nutmeg and cook.

    The cream and the stock unmixed in the pot.

    Pour stock and cream into pot; add a pinch of salt.

    The reduced and finished sauce.

    Reduce heat to the lowest setting and cook, uncovered, until meat is very, very tender, 2–2½ hours.

    Tip for success!

    • Brown the beef in small chucks so that it gets a slight sear.
    • Break the beef into the smallest pieces possible while cooking, this will make a smoother sauce.
    • Let the tomato paste cook until it reaches a very dark color, this will add a richer flavor and texture.
    • Cook the sauce until almost no liquid remains.
    Print
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    A brown bowl full of bolognese pasta, sprinkled with parma cheese, thyme, and with two glasses of bourbon above and below.

    Spaghetti Bolognese made with Bourbon

    ★★★★★ 5 from 1 reviews
    • Author: Pate Giltner
    • Prep Time: 10 minutes
    • Cook Time: 3 hours
    • Total Time: 3 hours 10 minutes
    • Yield: 4-5 servings 1x
    • Category: Sauce
    • Method: Stove top
    • Cuisine: Italian
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    Description

    This is the richest and meatiest bolognese sauce because it's cooked down with bourbon and cream! Bourbon is a prime cooking ingredient here in Kentucky, and it compliments and sweetens the beef to make the perfect spaghetti bolognese made with bourbon sauce. 


    Ingredients

    Units Scale
    • 1 celery stalk chopped
    • 2 medium carrots chopped
    • 1 onion chopped
    • 4-5 cloves garlic, minced
    • 1 pound ground beef
    • 4 ounces of pancetta or bacon
    • ½ cup bourbon
    • ½ cup cream
    • 2 cups beef broth
    • 6 oz Tomato paste
    • 1 Bay leaf
    • 2 Thyme sprigs
    • Pinch nutmeg
    • Salt pepper

    Instructions

    • Cook beef in chunks until browned. 
    • Remove from pot and cook the pancetta until crispy. 
    • Add onion, carrot, celery, and garlic and cook until translucent. 
    • Add beef back to the pot, and bourbon, and cook until all the bourbon is absorbed. 
    • Smash the beef into small pieces while cooking in the bourbon.
    • Add tomato paste, bay leaf, and nutmeg and cook, stirring occasionally and still pressing down on meat, until tomato paste is slightly darkened about 5 minutes.
    • Pour stock and cream into the pot; add a pinch of salt. Reduce heat to the lowest setting and cook, uncovered 2–2½ hours.
    • Cook pasta 1-2 minutes less than the instructions. 
    • Add ½-1 cup pasta water to the sauce and then add the pasta and cook for 1-2 minutes more.

    Did you make this recipe?

    Share a photo and tag me @thegandmkitchen — I can't wait to see what you've made!

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