So, here's an Elderberry Syrup recipe that I promised in the first newsletter that went out! You'll find many variations of this recipe around! Some areas seem to have berries in abundance, and in other areas, they seem to have come and gone already! For this reason, I'm providing fresh berry, and dried berry proportions for the recipe (in case you wish to make your own syrup, but can't find any fresh, so need to purchase some dried!). Elderberries are so rich in vitamin C (amongst other vitamins!), making it perfect for this time of year, when colds and flu are doing the rounds; so happy making..!
Elder earlier in the year, when in flower!
Fresh Berry Elderberry Syrup Recipe: Ingredients for fresh berry syrup: Fresh Elderberries 1 part
Water 1 part
Unrefined Sugar
or honey 0.5 part
Half a Fresh Lemon
Ingredients for dried berry syrup:Dried Elderberries 1 part
Water 2 parts
Unrefined sugar
or honey 0.5 part
Half a fresh lemon
How to Make:Place the water and elderberries (removed from stems, if fresh berries are used) into a saucepan. Bring to the boil, and simmer, covered for approx. 20 minutes.
Check Elderberries are soft. If not, simmer for a little longer.
When soft enough, mash with a potato masher, to release as much juice as possible.
Sieve the mixture, to remove the pulp. This can be easier using a mouli, but can also be pressed through the sieve, with the back of a wooden spoon.
Once the mixture is fully strained, pour the liquid back into the saucepan, and add the sugar. Bring back to the boil, then simmer until the liquid has thickened, into a syrup consistency. If you prefer to use honey, add this instead of the sugar, mixing well.
Add the juice of half a lemon.
Bottle the liquid when cool enough, and refrigerate. Another option can include preparing with ginger, which, if required, can be added to the pot with Elderberries and water to bring to the boil & simmer.
