Honey Cardamom Soda

16 green cardamom pods
1/3 cup honey
1/4 cup water
2 teaspoons lemon juice

Spread the cardamom pods in a single layer on a solid work surface.  Pound the pods with a hammer, meat pounder, or small heavy skillet until the pods are crushed and the cardamom seeds inside are bruised.

Combine the crushed cardamom pods, honey, water,and lemon juice in a small saucepan.  Bring to a simmer over medium heat and let simmer, uncovered, for 4 to 5 minutes, until the liquid reduces to one-third of its original volume.  Remove from the heat and set aside to cool for 15 minutes.  Strain out the solids, reserving the liquid.

To serve, add seltzer to syrup to taste.

The syrup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 month.


Serves 3.

From Homemade Soda by Andrew Schloss