Elderflower Cordial

We made a big batch of elderflower cordial from the elderflower heads we foraged. We'd never had elderflower cordial before, but apparently it's a soft drink dating back to the roman empire, and has been traditionally very popular in northwestern Europe where it has a strong Victorian heritage. We have a soft spot for things Victorian around here so we were even more determined to try it.

We cobbled together a recipe from a few we saw online, and in the end I'm still not quite sure what constitutes "one large head" of elderflowers, so I'm sure (like with most things) variation is acceptable. It has a pleasant unique flavor, that really doesn't taste like anything else. We've been mixing it about 1 part to 8 parts sparkling water, but that's all up to personal taste. Some people even mix it with "still water", it would still have a pleasant zing from the lemon and acid.  

Elderflower Cordial Recipe

• 25 large elderflower heads
• 2 pints water
• 2 lbs sugar
• 2 oz tartaric acid (cream of tartar) or citric acid
• 2 lemons, juiced

Dissolve sugar in water over low heat. Add tartaric or citric acid and lemon juice. (Zest of lemons can be added as well.) Mix well. Add elderflowers. Steep 24 hours. Strain into jars. Store in the refrigerator or freezer--just to be safe. Mix with sparkling water to drink, or substitute for any flavored syrup in recipes.