Fläderblomssaft

The Quirky Foodster Team

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Ingredients

Clusters Fresh elderflower heads — 30
Water — 1.5 L (6 cups)
Sugar — 1 kg (5 cups)
Lemons, sliced — 3
Citric acid — 25 g (2 tbsp)

Method

Shake the elderflower heads gently to remove insects; avoid washing, as this removes the pollen and fragrance.
Bring water to a boil, then pour over the sugar in a large heatproof bowl, stirring until dissolved.
Add the elderflowers, sliced lemons and citric acid to the sugar water.
Cover and let steep at room temperature for 2–3 days, stirring once a day.
Strain through a muslin cloth or fine sieve into clean bottles.
Refrigerate the cordial and dilute with still or sparkling water to serve, about 1 part cordial to 5 parts water.

Introduction: Made from freshly picked elderflowers steeped with lemon and sugar, Fläderblomssaft is a fragrant Swedish summer cordial, diluted with water or sparkling water and closely associated with Midsummer celebrations.

Cultural Background: Made from freshly picked elderflowers steeped with lemon and sugar, Fläderblomssaft is a fragrant Swedish summer cordial, diluted with water or sparkling water and closely associated with Midsummer celebrations.

Tips: Pick elderflowers on a dry, sunny day for the best fragrance. Taste after 2 days of steeping — the longer it steeps, the more intense the flavour.

Variations: Add a few slices of fresh ginger during steeping for a warmer note. Naturally vegan as written.

Storage: Refrigerate the strained cordial for up to 1 month, or freeze in portions for up to 6 months.

Reheating: Not applicable — served cold or at room temperature. Nutrition (per serving, approx., diluted): 90 kcal | Protein 0 g | Carbs 23 g | Fat 0 g

FAQs:

Q: Where can I find elderflowers?

A: They bloom in early summer and can be foraged from hedgerows away from roadsides, or bought at some farmers’ markets.

Q: Can I use dried elderflowers?

A: Fresh is preferred for the best aroma, but dried elderflowers can work in a smaller quantity.