Elderberry Syrup for Winter

Choose the elderflower clusters you will use very carefully, ensuring they are beautiful, fresh, and healthy. This is an essential step, as the quality of the flowers will influence the final flavor of the syrup. Cut the stems as close to the base of the cluster as possible, so only the flowers remain, which provide the distinctive aroma. Wash the elderflowers by submerging them in cold water, being careful not to agitate them too much. Gently shake them to remove excess water, then place them on a clean towel, allowing them to dry completely.

In a larger pot, combine sugar with water. Place the pot over low heat and stir continuously until the sugar is completely dissolved. It is important that the mixture is only heated, without reaching boiling point. Once the sugar is fully dissolved, remove the pot from the heat and let the syrup cool slightly.

Meanwhile, wash the 2 lemons well. Using a special vegetable peeler, remove the yellow zest from the lemons, being careful to avoid the white pith, which is bitter. If you accidentally cut into the white part, use a small knife to remove the impurities. If you prefer a more intense lemon flavor, feel free to use the zest from all the lemons.

Add the drained elderflowers to the warm syrup, along with the zest and juice of the lemons. Gently stir with a wooden spoon, being careful not to damage the flowers. Allow the mixture to cool completely, then cover the pot and transfer it to the refrigerator for about 4 days. This cold maceration process will allow the flavors of the flowers to develop and transfer into the syrup.

After the maceration period, strain the liquid through double cheesecloth to remove the flowers and any impurities. Bottle the syrup in well-sealed bottles, labeling them accordingly for easy identification. Store the bottles in a cool, dark place, such as a pantry, to keep the flavor fresh.

When you want to enjoy this delicate syrup, dilute it with still or sparkling water, depending on your preference. If you want to give it a refreshing touch, add a few ice cubes. The elderflower syrup will thus become a perfect drink for warm summer days, bringing a special taste and a comforting experience. Savor each sip and enjoy the aroma of the elderflowers!