I always know it is summer when the sweet smell of elderflower wafts in the air. Our elderberry bushes bloom for just about 2 weeks in only in mid June. I try to savor the sweet flowers but always leave plenty to transform into berries for elderberry syrup in the fall. Here is a recipe for one of the easiest, most unique and refreshing summer drinks that captures the sweet floral essence of summer in glass.
Here is how to make Elderflower Syrup and a perfect summertime drink.
Elderflower Syrup
Ingredients to make the concentrated syrup:
- 12-15 elderflower heads large (use double if small)
- 2 medium lemons
- ¼ cup (50 g) citric acid
- 12 cups water
- 4 cups white sugar
Directions
- Trim fresh elderflowers to remove most of the stems. Check flowers for dirt and insects – don’t wash! Its ok if there a little bug or two the mixture will get boiled twice and strained.
- With a peeler remove a few pieces of lemon skin from each lemon, then slice lemons. In a large pan combine the lemon slices, elderflowers, lemon slices and citric acid. (The only ingredient not yet going in is the sugar)
- Stirring occasionally, bring mixture to a rapid boil for 1 minute. Remove from heat, cover and let infuse overnight, or for at least four hours till cool.
- Strain the liquid through a fine strainer or cheese cloth, to catch all particulates. Presses gently to extract as much liquid as you can.
- Return liquid to the pan and add the sugar.
- Bring to boil again, stirring frequently to dissolve all the sugar, and simmer for 5 minutes.
- In the meantime, clean and sterilize the glass storage bottles, lids, a funnel and any other equipment in soapy water. Rinse the bottles and fill them with boiling water and leave for 5 minutes before draining. You can also rinse with a 1 to 1 solution of water and distilled white vinegar for extra precaution. Alternatively, place the washed bottles and lids in an oven at 140?C until dry.
- Bottle up the finished cordial while it’s still hot, pouring carefully into your warm bottles and closing the lids.
Elderflower Spritzers
Ingredients
- Elderflower Syrup
- Sparkling Water, dry white wine, or Vodka
Directions
- Dilute to desired sweetness, such as 2 tablespoons to 3/4 cup sparkling water.
- Optional: Squeeze in some fresh lemon for extra tanginess. A shot of your favorite vodka or mix with a little dry white wine or champagne for a special occasion cocktail.
Please note that while elderberry plants do grow well in many areas and can often be found wild be sure to always double check your sources. Do not consume anything you are unsure of that may have been sprayed with any from of chemical and never eat raw elderberries.
