Elder Flower Cordial Recipe

ELDERFLOWER CORDIAL


Makes about 2 1/2 pints
20 fresh elderflower heads
3 1/2 pounds sugar
1 1/2 citric acid
2 unwaxed lemons, thinly sliced
2 oranges, thinly sliced

Place the sugar and 2 1/4 pints water in a large pan and warm slowly, stirring to dissolve the sugar, then bring to the boil. Add the flowers, bring again to the boil then remove immediately from the heat. Add the citrus fruits and citric acid, stir together, then leave covered in a cool place for 24 hours to steep.
Strain the cordial into clean dry sterilized bottles with clip tops or corks and label with the date. The cordial will last for a month or 2 unopened in the fridge. Once opened keep refrigerated and use it within a few weeks. You can freeze it in plastic containers, in which case it will keep for 6 months or more in the freezer.
Serve diluted with still or sparkling water to taste or use this syrup to flavor jams, desserts and icings.