Elderflower Cordial

Directions

1. 1
   Collect the elderflower heads. Shake them lightly to remove any bugs then place them into a big mixing bowl. Peel the rind off the lemon in thick strips then cut the lemon into quarters and add it all to the bowl.
2. 2
   In a big pan, combine the sugar and water. Place over a medium heat and stir occasionally until all of the crystals have dissolved. Take off the heat and stir in the citric acid. Leave to cool until lukewarm.
3. 3
   When the syrup has cooled, pour it into the bowl -- it should be enough to cover everything, though a few bits may bob to the top. Cover with cling film and leave at room temperature overnight.
4. 4
   The next day, line a colander or deep sieve with muslin and set it into a big bowl or pan. Pour the contents of the elderflower bowl into the sieve, taking care that it doesn't overflow.
5. 5
   Place clean glass cordial bottles ( I use two and then a plastic bottle for freezing, which is fine just washed) in an oven set to 210° F (100° C) until they've been heated through. Let the bottles cool until they're warm.
6. 6
   Use a jug and funnel to pour the cordial into the bottles. It will keep in the fridge for up to a month and in the freezer (in a plastic bottle) for a few months. I like it with sparkling spring water but some prefer still. You only need a very small amount of cordial.