Grandma's elderflower syrup recipe

Grandma's Elderflower Syrup: A Refreshing Indulgence from Elderflowers

Do you remember the fresh aroma of summer, the warm days spent in the garden, and the refreshing drinks that brought a smile to your face? Elderflower syrup is that magical drink, full of nostalgia, that reminds us of childhood and moments spent with loved ones. This simple and natural recipe, inspired by grandma's traditions, is perfect for bringing a touch of summer into every glass.

Total preparation time: 4 days (including fermentation)
Effective working time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: approximately 20 (depending on bottle size)

Required ingredients:
- 8 liters of water
- 1 kg of sugar
- 3 lemons (2 for juice and 1 sliced)
- 40 ml of vinegar (to aid fermentation)
- 12 fresh elderflowers (make sure they are picked from unpolluted areas)
- 1/2 teaspoon of citric acid (for a more pronounced taste)

Step-by-step instructions:

Step 1: Gathering the elderflowers
Start by looking for blooming elderflowers, preferably on sunny days, as they contain more essential oils. Make sure to pick them from clean areas, away from pollution. Once gathered, rinse them gently under cold running water to remove impurities (small bugs and dust).

Step 2: Preparing the elderflower syrup
In an 8-liter stainless steel pot (or any other large container you have), pour in the 8 liters of water. Add the sugar and stir well until it completely dissolves. Squeeze the juice from the 2 lemons and add it to the mixture. Slice the third lemon thinly and place it in the pot.

Step 3: Adding the ingredients
Add the washed elderflowers to the pot, along with the vinegar and citric acid. These ingredients not only enhance the flavor but also contribute to the fermentation process, ensuring a delicious and fizzy elderflower syrup.

Step 4: Fermentation
Cover the pot with plastic wrap to prevent contamination from insects. Place it in a warm spot at room temperature. It is important to stir the mixture twice a day, morning and evening, to ensure even fermentation. After 4 days, you will notice that the elderflower syrup will start to bubble, indicating proper fermentation.

Step 5: Bottling
After 4 days of fermentation, your preparation is ready to be bottled. Use clean glass bottles with caps to preserve the flavor and fizziness. Make sure to leave a little space at the top of the bottle to allow for gas expansion. Place the bottles in the refrigerator to chill.

Practical tips:
- Checking the flowers: Ensure that the elderflowers are fresh and free from spots or damage. The best flowers are those full of pollen.
- Variations: You can experiment with flavors by adding some mint leaves or a slice of ginger to the mixture.
- Serving: Elderflower syrup is delicious served over ice and can be garnished with lemon slices or mint leaves for an extra touch of freshness.
- Frequently asked questions:
- How long does elderflower syrup last? Once bottled, elderflower syrup can be stored in the refrigerator for 1-2 weeks.
- What can I do if the elderflower syrup doesn’t bubble? Make sure you followed all the fermentation steps and used fresh elderflowers. If you don’t see bubbles, you can add a little sugar before bottling.

Nutritional benefits:
Elderflower syrup is a natural drink, free from preservatives, that provides a dose of vitamin C from lemons and antioxidants from elderflowers. This drink can help hydrate the body and strengthen the immune system, making it ideal for the warm season.

Delicious combinations:
Elderflower syrup pairs perfectly with a variety of snacks, such as goat cheese with honey, summer salads, or even light desserts like lemon cheesecake. It can also be used as a base for refreshing cocktails, adding a splash of gin or vodka for a special summer evening.

I conclude with a personal note: each bottle of elderflower syrup you prepare is an invitation to memories and beautiful moments spent with loved ones. By experimenting with this traditional recipe, you will not only add a delicious drink but also a touch of history and love to every glass. So embrace summer and enjoy every drop of elderflower syrup!