Elderflowers

Elderflower Cordial

Ingredients

• 1K sugar
• 1.5litres boiling water
• 4 lemons
• 30 large elderflower head. 
• 55g citric acid (available over the Internet). 

I leave the flower heads upside-down (for half-an-hour) on trays outside so the insects can escape! Wash, if you prefer.

Method

Place the sugar in a large pan or Pyrex bowl and pour in the boiling water. Stir until the sugar has dissolved and leave to cool.  Wash and slice the lemons.  Stir the citric acid and lemon slices into the sugary liquid.  Cover with a cloth or plate and leave in a cool place for 48 hours to steep.   Strain through a clean piece of muslin into sterilised bottles.

I use small plastic bottles and freeze to use later.  I make elderflower and strawberry jam and add it to gooseberry crumbles.  It keeps in the fridge for 6 weeks, if it lasts that long! Dilute like squash with water and serve in jugs with ice.  Try fizzy water or lemonade or add slices of lemons, limes or oranges for a bit of colour and zest.

Elderflower Tea

Elderflowers  make a refreshing herbal tea.

• Pick 2-4 elderflower heads.
• Cut off the stalk and pop into the pot.
• Steep the flowers for 5-10 minutes in a teapot. 
• Pour through a strainer.

Reputedly full of antioxidants, the elderflower may boost the immune system, easing allergies, asthma and hay fever; cold and flu symptoms; catarrh and sinus problems.

Learn more about the Elderflower in this article by Vikki Scovell: Respect Your Elders!