Elderflower Cordial

For me, elderflowers are more than just beautiful blooms. They are nature’s quiet heralds of warmer days and slower rhythms. Every spring, I take to foraging, wandering through local surroundings to gather these delicate white flowers just as they reach their peak. There is a kind of magic in watching the elderflowers come out, signalling that summer is on its way.

Making elderflower cordial from these freshly foraged flowers feels like capturing a moment in time. The essence of the season is bottled up in sweet, fragrant syrup. It is one of my favourite rituals, blending simplicity and tradition with a touch of artistry.

Here is how I craft my elderflower cordial:

Ingredients:

• 20 fresh elderflower heads gently shaken to remove any bugs but never rinsed (the natural pollen and aroma are key)

• 1 litre of water

• 1 kilogram of sugar

• 2 lemons zested and sliced

• 50 grams of citric acid
  

Method:
Start by boiling the water and dissolving the sugar to create a simple syrup. Once it cools slightly, add your elderflowers, lemon zest, lemon slices, and citric acid. Cover the mixture and let it steep for 24 to 48 hours. This slow infusion pulls out the floral, citrusy, and slightly tangy notes that make elderflower cordial so uniquely refreshing.

After steeping, strain the liquid carefully and bottle it. Keep it chilled to preserve the freshness and brightness.

This cordial is incredibly versatile. Mix it with sparkling water for a light, effervescent refresher. Drizzle it over cakes or fruit salads to add a floral lift. Or spike it with gin or prosecco for a sophisticated summer spritz.

Every batch I make is a reminder of the connection between food, place, and time. Foraging for these flowers grounds me in the season’s rhythm, and turning them into cordial lets me share a little piece of that magic with friends and family.

If you have never made elderflower cordial before, I encourage you to try it this season. It is a simple, elegant way to celebrate nature’s gifts and bring a fresh burst of sunshine to your table.