Return to site
Return to site

FLOWER CORDIALS AND SYRUPS

The main difference as far as I can gather between cordials and syrups is that cordial has a sour element whereas syrup does not. The sour element would add to the longevity of the liquid. I know of a few people who add a tablespoon of vodka to the cool syrup in order to increase its shelf-life

Some people use 1:1 sugar and water, for a rich syrup use 2:1 sugar and water. I am a bit sensitive to too sweet, so I opt for the lower sugar option, but then I have to make the decision to use the syrup quickly or to can it. 

The process of making cordials and syrups using flowers is very simple.

Firstly, acquire about 200g (or 2 cups) of flowers, set them aside on a flat surface for a few minutes to loose their insect buddies. 

While this is happening, boil a litre of water and add the water and 600g - 700g of sugar to a pot. Bring to a boil and then pour the hot sugar water over the flowers. Leave to steep for a few minutes.

For a cordial, you will want to add acid, be that from lemons, vitamin C powder or citric acid. It is likely that there will be a colour change when you add the acid.

Allow your flowers to steep covered over for a day, strain the liquid into sterilised bottles or ice cubes trays. If you are not going to be canning your bottles of syrup/cordial, keep it in the fridge.

Canning it for longterm storage

To can, line a large pot (stock pot) with tea towels, place the bottles into the pot so that the bottles are not touching. Add warm water to the pot to the level of the liquid in the bottles, do not go above the bottle lids.

Bring the water to 85 degrees C for 20minutes or 75 degrees C fot 30 minuttes. Remove when done and allow to cool. If canned properly, the syrup should last indefinitely as long as the bottle is left unopened.

Great flowers for making cordial from:

Gorse (March)

Flowering Currant (April/May)

Lilac (May) Be sure to remove the flowers from their bitter stems) 

Elderflower (June) would benefit from the zest and juice of a lemon or two

Rosebay Willowherb (July)

Meadowsweet (July) would benefit from the zest and juice of a lemon or two

Rose petals (Summer)

Previous
Energy Boosting Nettle Seeds
Next
Dandelion Root Coffee
 Return to site
Cookie Use
We use cookies to improve browsing experience, security, and data collection. By accepting, you agree to the use of cookies for advertising and analytics. You can change your cookie settings at any time. Learn More
Accept all
Settings
Decline All
Cookie Settings
Necessary Cookies
These cookies enable core functionality such as security, network management, and accessibility. These cookies can’t be switched off.
Analytics Cookies
These cookies help us better understand how visitors interact with our website and help us discover errors.
Preferences Cookies
These cookies allow the website to remember choices you've made to provide enhanced functionality and personalization.
Save