Elderflower Summer Fizz *recipe*

Summer is here! I realise that solstice is still over a week away, but here in the UK the sunshine is definitely indicating that summer has begun :) that’s enough for us Brits to be in full summer mode already!

So to celebrate the summer season, the sunshine and the gift of nature, here’s a recipe for elderflower summer fizz (both non-alcoholic and alcoholic options).

This is a simple recipe using wild elderflowers and a few simple ingredients to make a cordial that can then be added to sparkling water for a refreshing summer drink or to Prosecco / sparkling wine for a summer twist on a classic bellini (cue those picnics!)

I love the choice of elderflowers, as they have such an incredible botanical flavour and are also in season at this time of year, can be found in the countryside and you don’t need too many of them!

Even though there is sugar in this recipe, you’ll only be using a dash of the cordial in your drink and it’s more of summer celebratory drink, rather than for daily hydration!

Recipe below but before then, just a bit about elderflowers and tips for picking them:

You’ll find them throughout the countryside at the moment 🙂 The season is late May to mid June - this is when the flowers are at their freshest.

Choose bushes away from busy roads (to avoid the fumes from cars which the plants will absorb), and only pick a few flowers from each elderflower bush, so that it will bear berries - an important food for the birds and insects in late summer.

Ingredients

4 large elderflower heads (remove the main stem and leaves, but keep the flowers whole)

1 unwaxed / organic lemon (grate the rind and slice the lemon)

500ml of filtered water

250g of caster sugar

Method

1. Gently shake the elderflower heads to ensure any insects are removed!

2. Place in a large sealable container with the sugar. Boil the water and pour this into the container mixing until the sugar dissolves

3. Add the lemon zest and slices

4. Once cooled, place the lid on the container and leave it to infuse for 24-48 hours

5. Once infused, sieve the liquid and pour into:

   • Either a sterilised bottle / jars - store this in a cool dry place. It will last for a week or so

   • Or freeze in ice cube trays - these are great to pop into a drink whenever you fancy it

To serve

• Add a dash of the cordial (or one of the elderflower ice cubes) to a glass, with the juice of half a lemon and fill the rest with sparkling water or sparkling wine

• Enjoy!