Elderflower Cordial a Delicious Summer Drink.
I have wanted to try Elder Flower cordial for some time. I am happy to say my wish has come true.
The above photo shows the completed cordial along with fresh elder flowers and lemons from our lemon tree
We are enjoying the cordial on ice with our evening meal. Very refreshing.
Here is the recipe. Maybe you could try it if you find some elderflowers in season.
The flowers are best picked on a sunny day when they are still creamy coloured and before they fade to white. At this time they have the highest amount of pollen, which contains the yeast.
Ingredients
4.5 litres (1 gallon) of water
1.8kg (4lb) white sugar
Juice and thinly peeled rind of 6 unwaxed lemons.
70grams citric acid (2.5 ounces)
40 elderflowerflower heads. Shake well to remove live insects and only wash if picked by roadside.
The ingredients are open to interpretation. You may like to use less lemons or use 30ml (2 tblsp )of cider vinegar or wine vinegar in place of the citric acid.
Method
Bring the water to the boil. Pour into sterilised container. Add the sugar. Stir until dissolved. Cool and add lemon rind and juice, citric acid (or vinegar) and elderflowers. Cover and leave for 24hours. Stir 3 times daily for 5 days. Filter through muslin into strong glass bottles. The drink is ready after 2 weeks. Serve chilled, diluted with still or carbonated water to taste. It is best within 3 months but is known to last up to two years.
