Douglas Fir Simple Syrup
(courtesy of Brooke Walshaw, herbalist/founder, Terroir Herbals in Reno. Makes about 3 cups)
2 cups water
3 cups white sugar
2 cups dried evergreen needles or tips
Heat the water in a saucepan over medium heat, add sugar, then bring to simmer. Remove from heat and add needles. Cover and steep, allowing the syrup to cool before straining. Store in a glass jar in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. To extend shelf life, add 2 tablespoons vodka.