What is Gomme (Go Me) Syrup?
Gomme syrup, phonetically misspelled by many as 'go me syrup', is a rich, sweet liquid used in classic cocktail recipes. Unlike standard simple syrup, which is just sugar and water, gomme syrup includes gum arabic as a key ingredient. Gum arabic, a natural emulsifier and thickener harvested from the acacia tree, gives the syrup a luxurious, velvety texture that dramatically changes the mouthfeel of a finished drink.
Historically, this syrup was a staple in bars before Prohibition, used to round out the flavors and soften the harsh edges of alcoholic spirits. Its ability to stabilize ingredients and prevent sugar crystallization also gives it a much longer shelf life than regular simple syrup, making it a favorite among bartenders and home mixologists alike.
The Role of Gum Arabic
Gum arabic is the secret behind gomme syrup's unique properties. This natural resin, primarily harvested in sub-Saharan Africa, has been used for centuries in various applications, from food and beverages to paints. When dissolved in water, it forms a thickening agent that serves several purposes in cocktail making:
- Emulsification: It helps bind and stabilize ingredients that would otherwise separate, creating a more uniform and cohesive beverage.
- Enhanced Mouthfeel: It adds a silky, smooth texture that makes a drink feel richer and more pleasant to sip.
- Softer Flavor Profile: The gum arabic can soften the alcohol's bite, allowing the other ingredients in a cocktail to shine.
- Longer Shelf Life: It acts as a stabilizer, preventing the sugar in the syrup from crystallizing and extending its freshness for months.
Gomme Syrup vs. Medicinal Syrups
One of the most important distinctions to make is that gomme syrup is not a medication. The confusion often arises because the word 'syrup' is associated with many pharmaceutical products, especially cough and cold medicines. For clarity, a comparison is essential to prevent misuse.
Comparison Table: Gomme Syrup vs. Medicinal Syrup
| Feature | Gomme (Go Me) Syrup | Medicinal Cough Syrup |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Function | A cocktail ingredient used for sweetening and enhancing texture. | A pharmaceutical product for treating coughs and congestion. |
| Active Ingredients | Sugar, water, and gum arabic. | Active pharmacological compounds like guaifenesin, dextromethorphan, or hydrocodone. |
| Target Audience | Bartenders and home cocktail enthusiasts. | Individuals experiencing symptoms of illness, as directed by a healthcare provider. |
| Safety Precautions | Generally recognized as safe for consumption; check for sugar content and individual dietary restrictions. | Contains active drug ingredients and should only be used as directed. Overdose can be dangerous. |
| Over-the-Counter? | No, typically found in specialty food or liquor stores, or made at home. | Often available over-the-counter for some formulations, but stronger versions require a prescription. |
How to Use Gomme Syrup in Cocktails
Gomme syrup is a versatile sweetener that can replace simple syrup in most recipes. Its richer texture is particularly effective in spirit-forward, classic cocktails where it can truly elevate the drinking experience.
Here are some classic cocktails where gomme syrup can make a notable difference:
- Old Fashioned: Using gomme syrup instead of a sugar cube and a splash of water creates a smoother, more integrated flavor profile.
- Sazerac: This New Orleans classic benefits greatly from the silky mouthfeel that gomme syrup provides.
- Whiskey Sour: The emulsifying properties of gum arabic help to balance the acidity of the lemon juice with the whiskey.
- Brandy Daisy: The syrup's ability to soften the alcohol makes it ideal for this potent, classic recipe.
How to Make Gomme Syrup at Home
For those who enjoy DIY mixology, making your own gomme syrup is a rewarding process. While it takes more time than simple syrup, the result is well worth the effort. The process involves two main stages:
Step 1: Hydrate the gum arabic.
- Measure out 2 ounces of powdered gum arabic and 2 ounces of hot (but not boiling) water.
- Combine the two ingredients and stir vigorously until the powder is mostly dissolved. The mixture will be thick and sticky.
- Let the mixture rest for at least two hours, or even overnight, to allow all the gum arabic to fully dissolve and hydrate.
Step 2: Combine with simple syrup.
- While the gum arabic mixture is resting, prepare a rich simple syrup by combining 8 ounces of sugar with 4 ounces of water. Heat the mixture until the sugar is fully dissolved.
- Once the gum arabic mixture is fully hydrated, add it to the cooled simple syrup and stir to combine thoroughly.
- After stirring, you can strain the mixture through cheesecloth to remove any impurities. Your gomme syrup is now ready to be bottled and stored.
Conclusion
In conclusion, what is go me syrup? is an easy phonetic mistranslation for gomme syrup, a sophisticated and historical cocktail sweetener. By understanding its primary ingredients—sugar, water, and gum arabic—and its purpose, one can appreciate its role in creating superior cocktails. It is not a medication, and it's important to distinguish it from the pharmaceutical syrups that are also found in liquid form. Whether purchased from a specialty vendor or crafted at home, gomme syrup remains a key ingredient for elevating classic and modern drinks alike. To learn more about its use in specific cocktails, explore resources like this article on classic cocktail recipes enhanced by gum syrup.
