Chef Bihi Elderflower Syrup
Looking for a way to elevate your summer drinks? This elderflower syrup recipe is your answer! Easy to make and bursting with floral flavors, this syrup can transform plain water into a refreshing drink, or enhance your favorite desserts. Are you ready to dive into this delicious adventure and impress your friends and family with your culinary skills?
Recipe Information
- Servings: About 1 L of syrup
- Total Time: 2 days (includes steeping time)
- Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients
- 12 elderflower heads (fresh and fully opened)
- 500 ml of water
- 1 organic lemon, sliced
- 750 g of organic cane sugar
Instructions
- Select elderflower heads away from pollution, cutting them with scissors.
- Do not wash the flowers; you want to preserve the pollen that adds flavor and benefits.
- In a large bowl, combine 500 ml of water, the sliced lemon, and the elderflowers (ensure that green stems are trimmed off).
- Cover the bowl with a cloth and let it steep in a dry place for 48 hours.
- After 48 hours, strain the mixture through a fine sieve to catch any insects.
- Press down on the flowers with a wooden spoon to extract all the juice.
- In a saucepan, combine the strained liquid and the sugar, then bring to a boil.
- Let it simmer for 20 minutes until it achieves a syrupy consistency.
- Sterilize your bottles by pouring boiling water into them twice and then emptying them.
- Fill the sterilized bottles with the syrup while it’s still warm.
- Store in a cool, dry place, and enjoy your elderflower syrup for several months!
Notes
The flowers should be picked away from busy roads to avoid contamination. Make sure to check for any insects before using the flowers.
Recipe Tips
- For additional flavor, consider adding a few mint leaves during the steeping process.
- This syrup can be used in cocktails, on desserts, or even drizzled over fresh fruits for added sweetness.
Nutritional Information
Approx. 100 calories per 15 ml serving of syrup.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can I use dried elderflowers instead of fresh?
- Yes, you can, but the flavor will not be as vibrant. Use about half the amount of dried flowers.
- How long can I store the elderflower syrup?
- In a cool, dry place, it can last for several months; once opened, keep it in the refrigerator.
- What can I use elderflower syrup for?
- It’s great for drinks, desserts, or drizzled over pancakes and waffles.
- Is elderflower syrup vegan?
- Yes, as long as all the ingredients are plant-based and no animal products were used.
- Can I make this recipe without sugar?
- Alternative sweeteners can be used, but the texture and flavor may vary. Experiment with options like agave syrup or stevia.
