Nara Smith Cough Drop Recipe

Cynthia May

2 min read

·

22-01-2025

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For generations, the Smith family has been known for their legendary cough drops – a secret recipe passed down from Nara Smith herself. These aren't your average store-bought lozenges; they're a comforting blend of soothing ingredients, perfect for easing sore throats and calming coughs. While Nara's original notes are somewhat cryptic (a testament to her famously enigmatic personality!), we've deciphered the key elements and present you with a version faithful to her intention.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup granulated sugar: Provides the base sweetness and helps create the hard candy texture. You can experiment with a portion of honey for a richer flavor.
• ½ cup light corn syrup: This adds moisture and prevents crystallization, ensuring a smooth, consistent texture.
• ½ cup water: Essential for dissolving the sugar and creating the syrup base.
• ¼ cup lemon juice: A natural astringent and rich in Vitamin C, lemon juice aids in soothing a sore throat. It also provides a refreshing tartness.
• 1 teaspoon honey: Adds a touch of sweetness and its own soothing properties. You can increase this slightly to taste.
• 10 drops peppermint essential oil: A powerful decongestant and well-known for its calming effect on respiratory irritation. Please note: Essential oils should be used with caution. Always conduct a patch test before using it on your skin, and ensure you are using food-grade essential oils.
• Optional: A few drops of eucalyptus essential oil: Offers additional decongestant properties. Again, remember to use food-grade essential oil and conduct a patch test.

Instructions:

1. Combine and heat: In a medium-sized saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar is completely dissolved.
2. Simmer: Once dissolved, continue to heat, without stirring, until the mixture reaches 300°F (149°C) on a candy thermometer. This is the hard-crack stage. This step is crucial for the correct consistency.
3. Remove from heat: Carefully remove the pan from the heat. Stir in the lemon juice, honey, and essential oils. Mix thoroughly.
4. Pour and cool: Grease a baking sheet or silicone mat lightly with cooking spray or oil. Pour the mixture onto the prepared surface, spreading it out thinly.
5. Cut and harden: Let it cool completely. Once hardened, break or cut the candy into small, manageable pieces.

Important Notes:

• Safety First: Working with hot sugar syrup can be dangerous. Always use caution and appropriate safety measures.
• Experimentation: Feel free to adjust the amount of lemon juice, honey, and essential oils to your personal preference. You could also add other flavorings like menthol crystals or ginger.
• Storage: Store your cough drops in an airtight container at room temperature. They should keep for several weeks.

This recipe is a delicious and effective way to soothe those coughs and sore throats. Remember, while these are a great home remedy, they are not a substitute for professional medical advice. If your cough or sore throat persists, consult a healthcare provider. Enjoy!