Grandma's elderflower syrup recipe

Elderflower cordial – A refreshing drink from childhood memories

Who doesn't fondly remember summer days spent at their grandparents' house, when the sweet and floral aroma of elderflower filled the warm air? Elderflower cordial is undoubtedly one of the most beloved summer beverages, bringing a touch of nostalgia to every glass. This simple and refined recipe for elderflower cordial, inspired by ancient traditions, is a wonderful way to take advantage of the delicate elderflowers and bring a bit of summer magic into your life.

Total time: 48 hours
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: approximately 10 servings (750 ml each)

Ingredients:
- 12 fresh elderflower heads
- 7 liters of filtered water
- 1 kg of sugar (or less, to taste)
- 3 fresh lemons

A bit of history
Elderflower cordial, a traditional drink, has been made for centuries in various forms, based on elderflowers that have been appreciated not only for their taste but also for their therapeutic properties. It is said that elderflower has beneficial effects on the immune system and that its flowers are excellent for detoxifying the body. Therefore, this drink not only refreshes you but also improves your health.

Step by step – Your guide to perfect elderflower cordial

1. Prepare the ingredients
Start by gathering 12 fresh elderflower heads. Make sure to choose flowers that are not contaminated by pollutants or pesticides. Wash them carefully under a stream of cold water to remove any impurities.

2. Prepare the sugar syrup
In a large container, add 7 liters of filtered water. Gradually add the sugar (1 kg) and mix well until it is completely dissolved. It is important to use good quality water, as this affects the final taste of the cordial.

3. Prepare the lemons
Wash the lemons well under running water. Remove the peel from two of the lemons, slicing them thinly. The third lemon will be squeezed to extract its juice, which will add a note of freshness to your drink. Add the lemon slices and juice to the sugar water syrup.

4. Add the elderflowers
Now it’s time to add the elderflower heads to your mixture. Make sure to soak them well in the syrup so that their aroma is fully released. Cover the container with a clean cloth or plastic wrap and let it sit at room temperature for 24 hours. It is recommended to stir the liquid gently from time to time to enhance the flavor.

5. Strain the cordial
After 24 hours, it’s time to strain the elderflower cordial. Use a fine sieve or cheesecloth to separate the flowers from the liquid. Pour the cordial into clean bottles, ensuring you leave a few centimeters of space at the top.

6. Fermentation
Cover the bottles with caps, but do not seal them completely to allow gases to escape. Leave them at room temperature for another 2 days to allow fermentation. It is important to check occasionally to ensure that no excessive pressure builds up in the bottles.

7. Cooling
After two days, transfer the bottles to the refrigerator. The cordial will cool, and the flavors will intensify. It is recommended to consume it chilled, to fully enjoy its freshness.

Useful tips:
- If you want the cordial to have a more intense flavor, add more elderflower heads.
- You can experiment with adding herbs like mint or basil for a unique twist.
- If you do not have access to fresh elderflowers, you can use dried flowers, but you will need to add more, as the aroma diminishes during the drying process.

Nutritional benefits
Elderflower cordial is a natural drink that contains no preservatives or colorants. Elderflowers are known for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, and lemons provide a significant amount of vitamin C, essential for immune system health.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use brown sugar instead of white sugar?
Yes, brown sugar will add a caramelized flavor to your cordial.

- Is it possible to make elderflower cordial without lemons?
Lemons add acidity and a refreshing taste, but you can use grapefruit or orange juice instead if you prefer.

- How long can elderflower cordial be stored?
If stored in the refrigerator, elderflower cordial can last up to a week.

Serving and combinations
Elderflower cordial is delicious served simply, but you can add ice cubes and fresh mint leaves for an elegant touch. It also pairs perfectly with various summer snacks, such as feta cheese with olives or fresh salads.

In conclusion, elderflower cordial is more than just a drink; it is a connection between the past and the present, an invitation to pleasant memories and refreshing moments. So, don’t hesitate to start making this simple recipe and enjoy every glass of elderflower cordial with your loved ones!