... and Homemade Elderflower Cordial

While out hunting for flowers to use in my flower press I found some elderflower bushes, so decided to collect some to make cordial!

There are different recipes out there, which are a variation on a theme, and here's the version I tried out...

Ingredients

• Elderflower heads (approx 30 stems)
• Zest & juice of 3 lemons
• 1kg granulated sugar
• 1.5 litres water
• 1 tsp citric acid (optional)

Take your flower heads, remove any leaves etc and give them a shake to get rid of any creepy crawlies! 

Put the flower heads in a large pot with the lemon zest. Other flavour options could be lime or orange zest.

Boil the water and pour over the flowers, cover and leave overnight.

Strain the mix with a muslin or fine sieve and add the lemon juice. At this stage it is optional to add citric acid, which helps the cordial keep for longer. I had a bit of trouble finding citric acid, but bought it from the pharmacy in the end!

Heat the clear liquid and add the sugar, stirring until dissolved. I'd suggest adding the sugar in stages, as then you can taste and use less if preferred.

Pour into well-sealed sterilised bottles and enjoy! This is a great refreshing drink served with sparkling water or lemonade and ice. For an extra kick it also works well with vodka or gin!

Elderflowers are generally out in bloom in June/July so I may have to collect some more and try out some other recipes... I hear they work well in shortbread too!

We are linking up to these parties!

10th July '13: Update - this recipe was put to good use by Musings of a Hostage Mother!
15th July '13: Update - this recipe was featured here at Frugal Fit Family
23rd July '13: Update - this post was featured here at Family Home & Life