Perfect Blueberry Syrup

Directions

1. 1
   In a pot, combine the blueberries with 1 cup of the water.
2. 2
   Crush the berries with a potato masher and bring to a simmer.
3. 3
   Simmer over low heat for 15 minutes.
4. 4
   Strain the juice into a heatproof measuring cup, pressing hard on the solids.
5. 5
   Discard the solids.
6. 6
   Rinse out the pot.
7. 7
   Add the sugar, lemon zest and the remaining 3 cups of water and bring to a boil, stirring to dissolve the sugar.
8. 8
   Boil the syrup over moderate heat until it registers 225 on a candy thermometer, about 20 minutes.
9. 9
   Add the blueberry juice and lemon juice and boil over high heat for 1 minute.
10. 10
    Let the syrup cool, then discard the lemon zest.
11. 11
    Pour the syrup into just-cleaned bottles.
12. 12
    Seal and refrigerate for up to 6 months.