Elderflowers
Late May and June will see the Elder flowers blooming. The flowers of this most ancient and revered tree can be made into a wonderful cordial - why not give it a try!
Elderflower Cordial
Ingredients
You'll need 25 heads of elderflowers – please pick only a few from each tree. Rinse very well as they will have bugs hiding in them.
2kg sugar,
2 litres water and 2 large sliced lemons.
Method
Put the sugar, water and lemon in a pan and heat gently, stirring continuously, until the sugar has dissolved. Allow to cool then pour over the elderflowers. Leave to stand in a covered container for 2 days then strain and bottle (seal loosely in case of fermentation - bottles with corks are safest!). Store in a cool, dark place.
To drink, dilute with three parts chilled mineral water to one part cordial. Use sparkling water if your preference is for elderflower 'champagne'.
Enjoy!