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Elderflower Cordial (Holundersaft)

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ (0)
15 min (plus 24 hr infusing)
Prep
5 min
Cook

Ingredients

  • 20 fresh elderflower heads, stems trimmed
  • 1 litre (4 cups) water
  • 500 g (2 1/2 cups) sugar
  • 1 lemon, sliced, plus zest
  • 1 tsp citric acid (optional, for a sharper flavour and longer shelf life)

Method

  1. Gently shake the elderflower heads to remove any insects, but avoid washing them, as this can wash away the fragrant pollen.
  2. Place the elderflowers, lemon slices and zest in a large bowl or pot.
  3. In a saucepan, heat the water and sugar together, stirring until fully dissolved, then bring just to a simmer.
  4. Pour the hot sugar syrup over the elderflowers and lemon, and stir in the citric acid if using.
  5. Cover and let infuse at room temperature for 24 hours.
  6. Strain through a muslin cloth or fine strainer into sterilised bottles.
  7. Store in the refrigerator and dilute with still or sparkling water to taste when serving.

Introduction: Elderflower bushes grow abundantly along the hedgerows and forest edges of the Alpine Rhine Valley, and their fragrant late-spring blossoms have long been gathered by Liechtenstein households to make a refreshing homemade cordial, bottled to enjoy diluted with water throughout the warmer months.

Cultural Background: Elderflower bushes grow abundantly along the hedgerows and forest edges of the Alpine Rhine Valley, and their fragrant late-spring blossoms have long been gathered by Liechtenstein households to make a refreshing homemade cordial, bottled to enjoy diluted with water throughout the warmer months.

Tips: Pick elderflowers on a dry, sunny day, as rain washes away much of their fragrance. Citric acid helps preserve the cordial for longer, but it can be omitted for a milder, shorter-lived batch.

Variations: Add a few slices of fresh ginger to the infusion for a warmer, spiced note. A splash of white wine vinegar can replace the citric acid as a natural preservative.

Storage: Refrigerate in sterilised, sealed bottles for up to 4 weeks; freeze in ice cube trays for longer storage.

Reheating: Not applicable; served cold or at room temperature, diluted with water.

FAQs:

Q: Can I use dried elderflowers?

A: Fresh is strongly preferred for the best fragrance, though a small quantity of dried flowers can be used in a pinch.

Q: How diluted should the cordial be?

A: A ratio of about 1 part cordial to 4-5 parts water is typical, adjusted to taste.

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