Grandma's elderflower syrup recipe
Elderflower Syrup from Grandma - A Traditional Refreshing Drink Without Yeast
Total time: 3 days (active preparation time: 15 minutes)
Number of servings: 6 liters of delicious elderflower syrup
Who doesn't remember the summer of childhood, when the scent of elderflowers filled the warm air and sunlight reflected in the bottles of elderflower syrup? This lightly sparkling drink has always been a symbol of joy and warm days. Although many of us are used to making elderflower syrup with yeast, today I will share a simple and delicious recipe without yeast that will bring the same pleasant memories in every glass.
Basic ingredients:
- 5 liters of still water
- 2 large lemons (with smooth skin)
- 550 g sugar (preferably unrefined sugar for a more authentic taste)
- 8 fresh elderflower blossoms (make sure they are from an unpolluted area)
Useful tips about ingredients:
- Elderflowers: Choose fresh elderflowers, preferably from a rural area. They should be open with a pleasant fragrance. Avoid yellowed or dried flowers.
- Lemons: Opt for organic lemons, as their skin is not chemically treated. The flavors will intensify, giving a fresher taste to the syrup.
- Sugar: Unrefined sugar adds not only a deeper flavor but also a slightly caramelized hue that pairs wonderfully with elderflowers.
Preparing the Elderflower Syrup:
1. Cleaning the elderflowers:
Start by placing the elderflowers in a bowl of cold water for 5 minutes. This will help remove any impurities or insects. After the time is up, rinse them gently under cold running water.
2. Preparing the syrup:
In a 6-liter glass jar, add the 5 liters of still water. Sprinkle the sugar into the water and stir well with a wooden spoon until the sugar is completely dissolved. It is important to ensure that the syrup is homogeneous.
3. Adding the lemons:
Squeeze the juice from one and a half lemons into the water and sugar syrup. Slice the remaining lemon thinly and add it to the jar. These slices will provide extra flavor and a pleasant appearance to your drink.
4. Including the elderflowers:
Now, carefully add the cleaned elderflowers to the jar. Stir again with a wooden spoon to integrate all the ingredients.
5. Fermentation:
Cover the jar with plastic wrap, ensuring it is airtight. Place the jar in a bright, sunny spot where it can ferment for 3 days. It is important to stir the syrup 2-3 times a day to help develop the flavors.
6. Straining:
After 3 days, check for the arrival of flavors. The color should be golden and have an enticing elderflower fragrance. Strain the syrup through a fine sieve or cheesecloth to remove the flowers and lemon slices.
7. Bottling and chilling:
Pour the syrup into clean bottles and seal them. Then, refrigerate them. This step is essential to maintain freshness and flavors.
Serving suggestion:
Elderflower syrup is served cold, with ice, and for an extra touch, you can add a few mint leaves or lemon slices for an attractive look. This drink is perfect to enjoy with friends at a summer party or even as a treat during warm days.
Nutritional benefits:
Elderflower syrup is a natural drink, without preservatives or additives, rich in vitamin C due to the lemons. It can help strengthen the immune system and maintain healthy skin. Additionally, elderflowers have anti-inflammatory and detoxifying properties.
Frequently asked questions:
- Can elderflower syrup be made with other fruits?
Yes! You can experiment by adding other fruits, such as peaches or strawberries, to give it a personalized touch.
- What if the elderflower syrup doesn't become sparkling?
If you don't notice fermentation, make sure you used fresh flowers and that the jar was left in a warm, sunny spot. Also, check if you stirred often enough.
- How long can elderflower syrup be stored?
Elderflower syrup can be stored in the refrigerator for about a week. Although it is best fresh, it can remain good for a few days.
This elderflower syrup from grandma is not just a drink, but a true experience that will remind you of summer days spent in nature. Don't hesitate to share this recipe with your loved ones and enjoy every glass of elderflower syrup made with love!
Elderflower recipe from grandma. We soak the elderflowers for 5 minutes in a bowl of cold water to remove any dirt and insects. In a 6-liter glass jar, we mix water with sugar until the sugar completely dissolves. We squeeze the juice from one and a half lemons and add it to the syrup. We slice the remaining lemon and place it in the jar, then add the elderflowers. We stir well with a wooden spoon, cover the jar with plastic wrap, and let it sit in a bright, sunny place for about 3 days. During this time, we stir it 2-3 times a day. Once it’s ready, we strain it, bottle it, and refrigerate it. A refreshing delight!
Ingredients: Elderflower drink grandma's recipe 5 liters of still water 2 large lemons 550 g sugar 8 elderflowers
Tags: elderflower cordial