Mint Simple Syrup

With my summer CSA half-share, the early boxes have had herbs in addition to veggies.  One week I got a really nice bunch of mint and needed to determine *something* to use it for.  Since none of my current State Fair practice bakes features mint, I thought some mint syrup--for beverages, etc.--would be nice.  And it is!  

Ingredients:

• 1 cup water
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves

Directions:

1. Bring the water and sugar to a boil in a small pan, over medium-high heat. Whisk to dissolve the sugar.
   
2. When liquid is just at a boil, add mint leaves.
   
3. Reduce heat to a simmer and let cook (without stirring) until mixture is very slightly thickened (10 to 15 minutes)
   
   
   
   
   
4. Remove from heat and let stand 10 to 15 minutes. 
5. Remove and discard mint leaves.
6. Let syrup cool to room temperature, then transfer to a covered glass jar/container. 
   
7. Store in the fridge.
8. Use in cocktails, lemonade, iced tea, etc.!