Elderflower & Strawberry Cordial/Syrup

Serves	Makes 2.5 litres
Prep time	72 hours
Dietary	Gluten Free, Vegan, Vegetarian
Meal type	Beverage
Misc	Gourmet, Pre-preparable, Serve Cold
Occasion	Barbecue, Birthday Party, Casual Party, Christmas, Easter, Formal Party, Thanksgiving, Valentines day
Region	British
By author	Karen S Burns-Booth

Note

The magical combination of fragrant elderflowers and fresh strawberries make this cordial/syrup extra special. Serve with sparkling water, soda water or lemonade, or for a very special occasion, serve with champagne for a champagne cocktail which is bound to wow any party or large gathering!

Directions

Step 1	Place 20 to 25 elderflower umbals (heads) shaken free of insects and 2 large lemons that have been sliced in to a large container, preferably one that has a lid.
Step 2	Add 1.5kg of caster sugar and 50g of tartaric or citric acid, then pour 2 litres of boiling water over the elderflower and sugar mixture and stir.
Step 3	Allow to cool slightly before adding 450g of hulled and halved strawberries and give it all a good mix. Press the strawberries against the sides of the container to squash them slightly, then cover and place in a cool, dark place for 3 days, (72 hours) stirring at least twice a day.
Step 4	When you are ready to bottle the cordial/syrup, strain the mixture in batches through muslin and a sieve and then pour into clean (sterilised) bottles. Seal and store in a cool, dark place for up to a year.