Right now is a good time to make your own elderflower cordial. Luckily for me the jungle next door is lined with countless elder trees with clusters of elderflowers extending over our garden, ready for picking.

Making the cordial is fairly easy but does involve quite a few waiting hours. Although it can be used in many desserts, I like it simply made into a refreshing fizzy lemonade by adding a good amount of soda water, ice and mint.

This is me holding the first strawberry of the season before wolfing it right down. (Taken two weeks ago, mind you.) We replanted our whole strawberry patch this spring so berries are scarce this summer. Somehow, I will have to survive.



Elderflower cordial

about 30 elderflower clusters, cleaned of any bugs
1 litre water
1 kg sugar
2 organic lemons, sliced
30g citric acid

Toss the cleaned elderflower clusters and lemon slices into a big jar or pot.
Boil the water with sugar and citric acid until completely melted. Cool slightly and pour over the elderflowers.
Let infuse for 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator.
Strain through a cheesecloth and pour into bottles.
Makes about 2 litres.