Recipe Archives->Drinks->Elderflower Cordial

Elderflower Cordial

15 large heads or umbels of elderflower
900g caster sugar
1 lemon
40g tartaric acid
500ml water

In a scrupulously clean pot, bring the water to a rapid boil. Slice
the lemon thinly, and place in a large bowl (Pyrex is best for
this, or glazed), along with the elderflower, sugar and tartaric
acid. Pour over the water as soon as it has boiled, and stir until
the sugar has dissolved. Leave the bowl to cool down, then cover
it and place somewhere shady and cool for four days.

Using a well-cleaned spoon, taste to ascertain whether it requires
further steeping. At the most, another day should be quite sufficient.
Strain the cordial through a steel or plastic sieve that is generously
lined with muslin, and pour into very clean bottles. Store in a
quiet, dark place.  Drinking can take place immediately, accompanied
by the likes of vodka, vermouth and gentle lemonade, though the
cordial can sit for quite some time, if given a chance.

Makes 1 litre

Printable version: elderflower-cordial.txt.