Orgeat syrup is a sweet syrup made from sugar, almonds, and orange flower water, creating an exotic blend of flavors that is used for a variety of applications. It is most commonly used as a mixer for cocktails such as Mai Tais and is also popular in desserts. While it was once a difficult ingredient to source, it is now widely available in many stores. Here are some of the best places to look for orgeat syrup:
Grocery Stores: Grocery stores offer various brands of orgeat syrup, with the most common being Torani and Monin. To determine which is the best option, check the ingredients list, as some brands may use high-fructose corn syrup, artificial sweeteners, and other additives. Most grocery stores also offer intriguing orgeat flavors like raspberry, passionfruit, and coconut.
Online Retailers: Some online retailers offer a wide range of orgeat syrup brands, as it can be difficult to find in physical stores. Atlas Monroe is a popular brand that is sold on popular websites like Amazon and eBay, as well as its own website. It offers pure orgeat syrup as well as an almond-free version for those with nut allergies.
Cocktail Supply Stores: For those looking for the highest quality ingredients for their cocktails, a specialty cocktail supply store can be the ideal destination. Not only will it offer pure, high-grade orgeat syrup, but it may also carry flavor variations such as lavender and cardamom. Cocktail supply stores also often carry other hard-to-find cocktail ingredients, making them a great one-stop shop.
Bars and Restaurants: Some bars and restaurants make their own orgeat syrup in-house, making it easy to source a high-quality product. As orgeat syrup is used in several classic cocktails, many bars are willing to provide it at a reasonable price. Additionally, asking the bartender or server for a recommendation can lead to finding an excellent orgeat syrup in a local bar or restaurant.
Homemade: For those who are feeling creative and want to make their own orgeat syrup, there are several recipes out there that utilize basic ingredients found in most households. Begin by combining equal parts of sugar and water, adding almonds, and cooking down until it forms a syrup. From here, orange flower water and flavoring agents such as vanilla extract and almond extract can be added for a homemade syrup that will bring great flavor to any cocktail or dessert.
Orgeat syrup is a great way to add exotic flavors to cocktails and desserts. It is now widely available in grocery stores, specialty shops, and even bars and restaurants. Online retailers also offer a wide range of brands, providing those looking for orgeat syrup with the opportunity to find the perfect blend for their needs. Finally, homemade orgeat syrup is also an option for those who want to create a unique and personalized recipe.