Sea buckthorn syrup

Sea buckthorn syrup - a natural elixir full of vitamins

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Servings: 6 jars of 250 ml

Sea buckthorn, also known as the "fruit of life," is a treasure trove of nutrients, rich in vitamin C and antioxidants. Making sea buckthorn syrup is an excellent way to preserve these wonderful fruits and use them in various healthy recipes. This syrup is not only a delicacy but also a natural remedy for increased immunity, perfect for the cold season.

Necessary ingredients:
- 2 kg of fresh sea buckthorn berries
- 1 kg of honey (preferably polyfloral or lime honey for a milder taste)

Step 1: Preparing the fruits
The first step in obtaining this delicious syrup is to ensure you have fresh sea buckthorn berries. Harvesting sea buckthorn can be a pleasant activity, but it is important to use a fork to separate the berries from the branches. Be careful and gently remove all the branches, as you may get pricked, and the berries can be quite thorny. After separating the sea buckthorn, wash them with cold water to remove impurities.

Step 2: Boiling the syrup
After cleaning the sea buckthorn, place them in a large pot and add about 500 ml of water. Boil the fruits over medium heat for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sea buckthorn will start to release its juice, and its aroma will fill the kitchen. If you desire a more intense flavor, you can add a few sprigs of fresh mint or a slice of lemon.

Step 3: Straining the juice
Once the sea buckthorn has boiled, it's time to extract the juice. Use a fine sieve or cheesecloth to strain the mixture. Press well with a spoon to extract all the juice. It is important not to let the seeds get into the syrup, as they will alter the texture and taste.

Step 4: Mixing with honey
Once you have obtained the juice, pour it back into the pot and add the honey. Mix well until the honey is completely dissolved. Bring the mixture to a boil and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes. The syrup will start to thicken, and its aroma will become more intense.

Step 5: Bottling
When the syrup has reached the desired consistency, pour it hot into sterilized jars. Ensure the jars are tightly sealed and turn them upside down to create a vacuum that will help preserve the syrup. Let them cool completely.

Serving suggestions:
Sea buckthorn syrup can be used in various ways. You can add it to hot teas, lemonades, or yogurts. It is also delicious as a topping for pancakes or cakes. You can also try using it as an ingredient in a salad dressing.

Possible variations:
For an exotic touch, you can add a few slices of fresh ginger during boiling. Additionally, the syrup can be combined with other fruits such as blueberries or blackberries to change its flavor and make it more interesting.

This sea buckthorn syrup is not only a simple recipe but also an amazing way to enjoy the benefits of these wonderful fruits throughout the year. Savor every drop and enjoy good health!