Elderflower Delights: A Recipe for Homemade Elderflower Cordial

5 Jul

Introduction

Summer is here, and with it comes the blooming of elderflowers, those delicate, fragrant blossoms that adorn elder trees. There's no better way to capture the essence of this fleeting season than by making your own elderflower cordial. This delightful drink is not only refreshingly delicious but also incredibly versatile. Whether you mix it with sparkling water, add it to cocktails, or drizzle it over desserts, elderflower cordial is a summer essential.

Ingredients

To create this floral masterpiece, you will need:

20-25 elderflower heads (freshly picked)
1.5 liters of water
1.5 kg of granulated sugar
2 lemons (preferably organic)
50 grams of citric acid

Instructions

1. Harvesting Elderflowers

The first step is the most enjoyable: a walk in the countryside to gather elderflowers. Choose a sunny day when the flowers are fully open and their fragrance is at its peak. Make sure to pick elderflowers away from busy roads and above the height that animals might reach. Once home, give them a gentle shake to dislodge any insects.

2. Preparing the Ingredients

Gently rinse the elderflower heads in cold water to remove any dust or remaining insects. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel.
Slice the lemons thinly, keeping the rind on, as this will add a zesty flavor to your cordial.

3. Making the Syrup

In a large saucepan, bring 1.5 liters of water to a boil.
Add the sugar to the boiling water and stir until it is completely dissolved. Once dissolved, remove the pan from the heat and let it cool slightly.

4. Combining the Ingredients

In a large bowl or pot, combine the elderflower heads and the sliced lemons.
Pour the warm sugar syrup over the flowers and lemons, ensuring everything is well submerged.
Add the citric acid, which helps to preserve the cordial and enhances the flavor.

5. Infusing the Flavour

Cover the bowl with a clean cloth and let the mixture steep for 24-48 hours. Stir occasionally to ensure the flavours infuse evenly.
After steeping, strain the mixture through a muslin cloth or a fine sieve into a clean bowl. Make sure to squeeze out as much liquid as possible from the flowers and lemons.

6. Bottling the Cordial

Using a funnel, pour the strained cordial into sterilized bottles. Seal the bottles tightly.
Store the cordial in a cool, dark place. Once opened, keep it refrigerated and consume within a month.

Serving Suggestions

Elderflower cordial is incredibly versatile. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Classic Elderflower Spritzer: Mix the cordial with sparkling water and ice for a refreshing drink.
Elderflower Cocktail: Add a splash of cordial to a glass of prosecco or champagne for a sophisticated twist.
Dessert Drizzle: Pour over vanilla ice cream or a fresh fruit salad for an elegant dessert.

Conclusion

Making elderflower cordial is a simple yet rewarding process that encapsulates the essence of summer in every bottle. Whether you enjoy it on a lazy afternoon in the garden or at a festive summer gathering, this cordial is sure to impress. So, grab a basket, head out to the nearest elder tree, and start your elderflower adventure today!