Elderflower Cordial

Directions

1. 1
   Inspect the elderflower heads carefully and remove any insects.
2. 2
   Place the flower heads in a large bowl together with the orange and lemon zest.
3. 3
   Bring 6 1/2 cups of water to a boil and pour over the elderflowers and citrus zest.
4. 4
   Cover and leave overnight to infuse.
5. 5
   Strain the liquid through a jelly strainer bag or piece of cheesecloth (see p. 33) and pour into a saucepan.
6. 6
   Add the sugar, the lemon and orange juice, and the citric acid, if using.
7. 7
   Heat gently to dissolve the sugar, then bring to a simmer and cook for a couple of minutes.
8. 8
   Use a funnel to pour the hot syrup into sterilized bottles (see p. 125).
9. 9
   Seal the bottles with swing-top lids, sterilized screw-tops, or corks.