Elderberry Cordial Recipe Great British Chefs from www.greatbritishchefs.com
Introduction
Elderflower cordial is a refreshing drink that is perfect for hot summer days. It is a sweet and floral drink that can be enjoyed on its own or mixed with sparkling water or lemonade. Making elderflower cordial is surprisingly easy, and the results are well worth the effort. In this article, we will show you how to make elderflower cordial using Mary Berry's recipe.
Ingredients
To make elderflower cordial, you will need the following ingredients:
20-25 elderflower heads
1.5 kg granulated sugar
1.2 litres of water
2 unwaxed lemons
50g citric acid (available from chemists)
Choosing Elderflowers
When choosing elderflowers, make sure they are in full bloom and have a strong fragrance. Avoid using flowers that are starting to wilt or turn brown. It's best to pick elderflowers early in the morning when they are at their freshest.
Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Elderflowers
Start by gently shaking the elderflower heads to remove any insects or debris. Do not wash them as this will remove some of the fragrance. Cut off any thick stalks, but keep as much of the flower heads as possible.
Step 2: Making the Sugar Syrup
In a large saucepan, heat the water and sugar together until the sugar has dissolved. Bring the mixture to the boil and then remove from the heat.
Step 3: Adding the Elderflowers
Add the elderflower heads to the sugar syrup and stir well. Add the sliced lemons and citric acid to the mixture and stir again.
Step 4: Infusing the Mixture
Cover the saucepan with a clean tea towel and leave the mixture to infuse for 24-48 hours. Stir the mixture occasionally.
Step 5: Straining and Bottling
After 24-48 hours, strain the mixture through a muslin cloth or a fine sieve into a clean jug. Pour the strained elderflower cordial into sterilised bottles and seal tightly.
Nutrition
Elderflower cordial is a sweet and refreshing drink that is perfect for hot summer days. It is low in calories, with just 35 calories per 100ml. It is also rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, making it a healthy alternative to sugary drinks.
Serving Suggestions
Elderflower cordial can be served in a variety of ways. It can be mixed with sparkling water or lemonade for a refreshing summer drink. It can also be used as a flavouring in cocktails, desserts and cakes. Here are some serving suggestions:
Mix elderflower cordial with sparkling water and ice for a refreshing summer drink.
Add elderflower cordial to champagne or prosecco for a summery twist on a classic cocktail.
Use elderflower cordial as a flavouring in cakes, muffins, and other baked goods.
Drizzle elderflower cordial over fresh fruit salad for a sweet and floral flavour.
Conclusion
Elderflower cordial is a delicious and refreshing drink that is easy to make at home. Mary Berry's recipe uses simple ingredients and is easy to follow. With just a few steps, you can create a sweet and floral drink that is perfect for hot summer days. So why not give it a try and enjoy the taste of summer in a glass!
