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Photograph: Michael Zajakowski

1 UNBEETABLE

Tastes like “Beets from the resting earth”

Bring 1 cup beet juice to a boil, then add 3 green cardamom pods and 3 tarragon sprigs and reduce to a simmer. Simmer for 15 minutes. Strain out cardamom and tarragon. Return liquid to the saucepan, add ½ cup light brown sugar, and warm over low heat until sugar is fully dissolved. Let cool, transfer to an airtight container, and refrigerate.

2 MINT TO BE

Tastes like “Zingy winter herbs”

Bring 1 cup water to a boil, then add 3 bags peppermint tea, 1 teaspoon dried lavender buds, and 4 fresh sage leaves. Remove from heat, cover, and let steep for 15 minutes. Strain out tea bags, lavender, and sage. Return liquid to the saucepan, add ½ cup granulated sugar, and warm over low heat until sugar is fully dissolved. Let cool, transfer to an airtight container, and refrigerate.

3 NONNA’S RECIPE

Tastes like “Grandma’s pizzelles”

Bring ½ cup water to a boil, then add 4 star anise, ½ teaspoon vanilla, and ¼ teaspoon lemon zest. Remove from heat, cover, and let steep for 15 minutes. Strain, then return liquid to the saucepan, add ½ cup honey, and warm over low heat, stirring until blended. Let cool, transfer to an airtight container, and refrigerate.

NOTE To flavor your coffee, add 1 tablespoon syrup to 8 ounces coffee. (For bigger flavor and more sweetness, you can add more syrup.) Syrups will keep in the fridge for up to three months.