Ever wondered how to capture the essence of summer in a bottle? Elderflower cordial is a delightful drink that encapsulates the subtle, fragrant flavors of elderflowers, turning them into a refreshing beverage. Here’s how you can make your own elderflower cordial at home with ease.
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Before you can start brewing your elderflower cordial, you’ll need to gather the following items:
- 10-20 Elderflower heads: Make sure they are in full bloom, free from insects, and not wilted. Early morning is the best time to pick them.
- 1 kg of sugar or honey
- 50g of citric acid (optional, for preservation)
- 2 unwaxed lemons
- 1.5 liters of water
Step 2: Prepare the Elderflowers
The key to a delicious elderflower cordial lies in how you prepare the flowers:
- Shake off any bugs or debris gently.
- Trim the stems, keeping only the flower heads.
Remember, the flowers should be fresh and vibrant for the best taste.
Step 3: Create the Cordial Base
- Slice the lemons thinly, leaving the rind intact as it will enhance the flavor.
- Boil water and sugar (or honey) together until the sugar dissolves completely.
- Turn off the heat and let it cool slightly.
🔎 Note: The use of citric acid is optional but it helps in preserving the cordial longer and adds a bit of zest.
Step 4: Infuse the Cordial
Now comes the infusion stage:
- Place the prepared elderflowers into a large, heatproof bowl.
- Add the sliced lemons on top.
- Pour the warm (not boiling) sugar syrup over the elderflowers and lemons.
- Cover with a cloth and let it infuse for 24 to 48 hours. Stir occasionally to ensure even infusion.
Step 5: Strain and Bottle
After infusing, it’s time to strain and bottle your cordial:
- Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve or muslin cloth to remove all solids. This helps in achieving a clear cordial.
- Pour the liquid into sterilized bottles or jars.
If using citric acid, now is the time to add it into the strained liquid for an additional tang and preservation.
🧪 Note: Ensure the bottles are properly sterilized to avoid contamination.
By following these simple steps, you've managed to capture the delicate flavors of elderflowers into a delicious homemade elderflower cordial. This delightful drink not only serves as a reminder of summer but also provides a versatile base for a variety of beverages. Whether you enjoy it as a refreshing drink over ice, or use it to add a floral note to cocktails, your homemade elderflower cordial is bound to impress.
Key Points to Remember:
- Choose elderflowers that are fully bloomed and free from pests for the best flavor.
- Ensure the infusion time is adequate for full flavor extraction.
- Sterilize your equipment to preserve the cordial’s quality and shelf life.
How long does homemade elderflower cordial last?
+
When stored in a cool, dark place, homemade elderflower cordial can last up to a year. Refrigeration can extend its shelf life further.
Can I use other fruits or flowers with elderflower?
+
Absolutely! You can experiment with flavors like orange, lime, or even lavender to enhance or alter the taste of your elderflower cordial.
What if I can’t find citric acid?
+
You can still make elderflower cordial without citric acid, though it will not have the same level of preservation or tartness. Add more lemon juice for a similar effect.
Can I make elderflower cordial without heating?
+
Yes, you can make a cold infusion by mixing sugar or honey with water and soaking the elderflowers for a longer period, typically 3-5 days, in the refrigerator.
