Elderflower syrup

Ingredients

• Fresh elderflower (Holunderblüte)
• 1 kg or 1 l water
• 1 kg sugar
• 1 lemon, sliced

Preparation

Collecting

Find an elder tree in full bloom. Mid-June is usually the right time. They’re everywhere and they’re easy to spot.

Collect 15-25 flowers, only getting a few cuttings per tree.

Making the syrup

1. Prepare the flowers, cutting off the stems as much as possible.
2. Boil the water, and fully dilute the sugar in it.
3. Put the flowers and the lemon slices in a large mason jar, and pour the sugar water on top.
4. Let sit in the fridge for 2-3 days.

Bottling

After 2-3 days, the syrup has fully absorbed the flavour. It’s time to bottle it.

1. Boil a few glass bottles and their lids in hot water for a few minutes to disinfect them.
2. Meanwhile, filter the syrup through cheesecloth or a clean towel, and squeeze every last drop. Throw the flowers away.
3. Bring the syrup to a boil, then pour it in the disinfected bottles with a funnel. Fill the bottles up as much as possible.

When refrigerated and unopened, the syrup can be preserved for a few months.

Usage

Make a Hugo, or simply mix it with sparkling water or make lemonade. It works with pretty much any summer drink.