Elderflower

Take any advantage of sunshine in the UK. It is thin on the ground.
Elderflower needs sunshine, so pick it when the sun’s out. Nice cream bloom, open flowers.
Cordial is so easy to make, it’s a crime not to. There are many recipes on the internet. Some with citric acid some without.
Homemade elderflower cordial is so much better than anything you can buy. Serve with sparkling water for a refreshing drink or sparkling wine for a delicious cocktail.
Ingredients
• 30 elderflower heads , bugs removed
• 1.7litres/3 pints boiling water
• 900g/2lb caster sugar
• Juice and zest of 2 unwaxed oranges,
• Juice and zest of 2 unwaxed lemons,
Preparation method
1. Heat zest juice sugar and water, until sugar has dissolved.
2. Pour over the Elderflower heads. A bowl or plastic bucket is OK for this.
3. Leave in a cool place for 24 hours, stirring occasionally. I put a bag over the top to keep the flies off.
4. Strain through some muslin, or a J cloth and transfer to sterilised bottles( I use hot water to sterilise) The smell is superb.
Elderflower cordial made this way will not last a long time. So be careful it does not ferment in the bottle. I have usually drunk it before this happens. Freezing some in a plastic bottle is a great idea.
My mother used to make Elderflower champagne, this is one of the whoopiest yup yup things in the universe. Seriously if you get the chance, your taste buds will love you forever. Also I made Lime Elderflower and Cucumber Granita, in this heat it is very welcome.