How to use elderflower?
The idea of making your own elderflower syrup might sound like a difficult task. However, I can assure you that the most challenging part is simply finding the elderflower.
The first step to making your own elderflower syrup is to properly gather the blossoms. Depending on where you live, they could be in flower from late April until the end of July. Make sure you have the right flower. There are some plants which look similar to elderflower but which will not make a refreshing drink. Collect them from an area which is well away from roads and any other forms of pollution. Don’t pick too many heads from one bush as birds feed on the berries in September.
Use scissors to cut the blossoms from the branches. Place the blossoms in a wicker basket, cloth bag, or paper bag. One half a normal bag will be enough for preparing 5 liter of syrup. Lastly, be sure to select blossoms that are fully opened and not browning or past their prime. This will affect the quality of the elderflower syrup.
Method
Once gathered, keep the blossoms in a cool dry place until you are ready to use them. Its best to prepare the syrup within 24 hours of picking the blossoms. Remove any dead mice, bugs, leaves etc. Get some real lemons rather than a plastic bottle of lemon juice. Try to get ones that are untreated – check out your local bio store – with regular lemons, the peel is covered in loads of chemicals. Rinse them to get rid of any dust.
- Soak the elderflower heads in cold water and let them infuse for 1 day.
- Strain the infused water to remove the flowers.
- Add sugar and lemon to the strained water.
- Heat gently until the sugar dissolves to make the syrup.
- Pour into sterilized bottles and store in a cool, dark place.
This creates a fragrant, lightly floral syrup perfect for drinks or desserts.
