Grandma's elderflower syrup recipe

Elderflower Syrup – Refreshing Drink from Elderflowers

Do you dream of a drink that brings back memories of sunny summer days, childhood joy, and the natural aroma of flowers? Then elderflower syrup is the perfect choice! This traditional drink, full of freshness and flavor, adds a touch of magic to every glass. Here’s how to prepare elderflower syrup using grandma’s recipe, step by step!

Total time: 5 days
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Number of servings: 10

Ingredients:

- 10 fresh elderflowers (make sure they are clean and unpolluted)
- 500 g sugar (for a balanced sweetness)
- 1 packet of dry yeast (approx. 7 g) or a cube of fresh yeast
- 1 fresh lemon (washed and sliced)
- A handful of raisins (for a touch of sweetness and flavor)
- 5 liters of still water (ideal for extracting the flavors of the elderflowers)

The Story of Elderflower Syrup:

Elderflower syrup has a rich history, being appreciated in various cultures for its delicate flavors and health benefits. It is a naturally fermented drink that not only refreshes but also provides probiotics, making it friendly to digestion. This recipe has been passed down through generations, and each housewife has her own secrets.

Step by Step:

1. Preparing the Elderflowers:
- Start by gathering or buying fresh elderflowers. Ensure they are clean, free of dust and insects. Rinse them gently under a stream of cold water. The elderflowers are what give the syrup its unmistakable aroma.

2. Preparing the Jar:
- Take a 5-liter jar and carefully place the washed elderflowers inside. Add the lemon slices, which will add a note of acidity and freshness.

3. Adding the Raisins:
- Put a handful of raisins into the jar. They not only enrich the flavor but also aid in fermentation due to the natural sugars they contain.

4. Preparing the Sugar Syrup:
- In a pot, add 500 g of sugar and 5 liters of still water. Mix well to dissolve the sugar. Once dissolved, pour this syrup over the elderflowers and lemon in the jar.

5. Activating the Yeast:
- Add the dry or fresh yeast to the jar. This will start the fermentation process. It’s important to use quality yeast to achieve a pleasant taste.

6. Fermentation:
- Cover the jar with a lid, but do not seal it tightly. Leave it in a warm place, protected from direct sunlight. This is where the magic will happen! Wait between 3 and 4 days, depending on the room temperature. You can check daily, and when the syrup becomes slightly fizzy and starts to bubble, it’s ready!

7. Serving:
- Once the syrup has fermented, strain the liquid through a fine sieve to remove the elderflowers and residues. Pour the elderflower syrup into bottles and keep it in the fridge. Serve it cold, in glasses with ice, perhaps with a slice of lemon or a few mint leaves for an extra touch of freshness.

Practical Tips:

- Ensure the elderflowers are fresh, as they are key to intense flavors. Avoid flowers that have started to wilt.
- If you want a sweeter syrup, you can add more sugar, but be careful not to overdo it, as this can affect the fermentation process.
- You can experiment with other flavors by adding a few mint or basil leaves for a slightly different taste.

Nutritional Benefits:

Elderflower syrup is a natural drink, rich in antioxidants and nutrients from elderflowers and lemon. It can help strengthen the immune system, detoxify the body, and improve digestion due to fermentation. It’s an excellent option for hydration, with a low calorie content, especially if you choose to reduce the sugar.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I use dried elderflowers?
- While dried elderflowers can be used, the flavors won’t be as intense as those from fresh flowers. It is recommended to use fresh flowers for the best results.

2. What can I do with leftover syrup?
- If you have excess syrup, you can use it as a base for refreshing cocktails, or even freeze elderflower syrup cubes to add to other drinks.

3. How long can elderflower syrup be stored?
- Elderflower syrup can be stored in the fridge for about 1-2 weeks. It is recommended to consume it as soon as possible to enjoy its fresh aroma.

4. Can I add other fruits?
- Of course! You can experiment with slices of peaches, strawberries, or even raspberries to add a fruity note to your syrup.

Variations:

- You can turn elderflower syrup into a delicious cocktail by adding a splash of gin and a few fresh mint leaves.
- Another variation is to use orange juice instead of lemon for a more exotic taste.

Remember, preparing elderflower syrup is an activity that can be shared with family and friends, and each bottle of syrup is a symbol of tradition and joy. So, embark on your culinary adventure and enjoy every glass of refreshing elderflower syrup!