taste of summer

As the sun came out for a couple of hours today, the elderflowers were gathered and the cordial was made! Here is the recipe we used: 

• 20 heads of elderflower
• 1.8 kg granulated sugar, or caster sugar
• 1.2 litres water
• 2 unwaxed lemons
• 75 g citric acid

1. Shake the elderflowers to expel any lingering insects, and then place in a large bowl.

2. Put the sugar into a pan with the water and bring up to the boil, stirring until the sugar has completely dissolved.

3. While the sugar syrup is heating, pare the zest of the lemons off in wide strips and toss into the bowl with the elderflowers. Slice the lemons, discard the ends, and add the slices to the bowl. Pour over the boiling syrup, and then stir in the citric acid. Cover with a cloth and then leave at room temperature for 24 hours.

4. Next day, strain the cordial through a sieve lined with muslin (or a new j-cloth rinsed out in boiling water), and pour into thoroughly cleaned glass or plastic bottles. Screw on the lids and pop into the cupboard ready to use

And here are the results!

Elderflower cordial is for me the taste of Summer. So sweet and simple, mix with water for a refreshing, thirst-quenching drink or add a tad to your favourite tipples such as gin and tonic! You could even make your own elderflower champagne, watch out for the explosions though!