Green Mango Simple Syrup

Roughly peeled and sliced green mango. Start with 1 well-washed green mango and remove about 75% of the peel, thereby adding some color to the finished syrup. It's important to use a green mango, not an under-ripe mango. Green mangoes are firm, bright green and will never become sweet or orange in color.

Chop mango pieces (leave out the small, thin seed in the middle) and puree in a blender or food processor. Stop when you reach the consistency of a slushy.

Place green mango puree into a large pot with 1 1/2 cups each water and sugar. Bring to a boil, reduce heat and simmer on a very gently for 5 minutes. Turn off heat, allow to cool and strain. Push solids with a wooden spoon against the strainer to wring out every last drop of flavor. If a tarter flavor is desired, add now lime juice and zest to taste. Store in the fridge for a month or two, using for cocktails, sodas, sorbet recipes and more. Quick Tip: Pour a tablespoon into a tall glass, add the juice of 1/2 lemon or lime, stir well and add 1 oz. gin or vodka. Stir again and fill glass with seltzer water for a Gin or Vodka Green Mango-Lime Rickey.