Holunderblütensaft
Holunderblütensaft (hol-OON-der-blew-ten-zahft)
Elderflower Cordial
A fragrant, refreshing homemade cordial made from freshly picked elderflower blossoms, lemon, and sugar, diluted with sparkling water for a summer drink.
Nutrition & Info
Equipment Needed
Presentation Guide
Vessel: tall glass with ice
Garnishes: elderflower sprig, lemon slice
Accompaniments: sparkling water
Instructions
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1
Gently shake elderflower heads to remove any insects, but do not wash them as this removes the fragrant pollen that gives the cordial its flavor.
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2
Bring water and sugar to a boil, stirring until sugar dissolves completely. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
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3
Place elderflower heads and lemon slices in a large bowl or pot. Pour the cooled sugar syrup over them and stir in citric acid.
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4
Cover with a clean cloth and let steep at room temperature for twenty-four hours, stirring occasionally to distribute flavor.
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5
Strain through a fine sieve lined with cheesecloth, pressing gently to extract all liquid. Discard flowers and lemon.
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6
Pour into sterilized glass bottles and refrigerate. To serve, dilute one part cordial with three parts sparkling water over ice.
Did You Know?
In June, Liechtensteiners can be spotted along roadsides and in meadows gathering elderflower heads, a foraging tradition that spans centuries.
Chef's Notes
Equipment Tips
- large pot
- fine sieve or cheesecloth
- glass bottles
- ladle
Garnishing
elderflower sprig, lemon slice
Accompaniments
sparkling water
The Story Behind Holunderblütensaft
Holunderblütensaft connects Liechtensteiners to their foraging heritage, when every edible plant in the Rhine Valley was gathered and preserved. Elderflower blossoms appear for only a few weeks in early summer, and the tradition of turning them into fragrant cordial has been practiced in the principality for generations. The resulting drink captures the essence of a Liechtensteiner summer in a bottle, served at garden parties and family gatherings throughout the warm months.
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