What is an elderberry cordial?

Elderberry cordial is a fruit juice concentrate similar to a fruit syrup but not as thick and concentrated. You can use it to flavor seltzer, iced tea, cocktails, and other beverages or dilute it with water to enjoy as elderberry juice.

Can you eat elderberries raw?

Do not eat raw elderberries. They contain a compound that can cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Cooking breaks down these compounds and makes them safe to eat.

Are elderberries good for you?

Elderberries are high in antioxidants and vitamins that help support your immune system. However, they may not be suitable for everyone. Learn more about elderberries.

Elderberry Cordial Recipe

Description

Elderberry cordial is a flavorful, fruity, non-alcoholic beverage concentrate made from the deep-colored berries of the elder tree. It can be enjoyed diluted with water or seltzer or used as a flavoring for your favorite cocktails.

Ingredients

Units Scale

1 pound elderberries
2 cups water
2 cups sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract

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Instructions

Rinse the elderberries and remove most of the stems. It's ok if you don't get all the stems, as they'll be strained out after cooking.
Add the elderberries to a pot with the water. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook for 20 minutes. Mash up the berries a bit with a potato masher to help release their juice, then strain the liquid and discard the berries.
Return the elderberry liquid to the pot and add the sugar. Continue to cook at a gentle simmer, stirring to dissolve the sugar, for about 5 minutes. Stir in the vanilla extract.
To enjoy: add one ounce cordial to a glass and fill with water or seltzer. Stir to combine.

Notes

Try other flavorings aside from vanilla, such as cinnamon, ginger, or lime juice.

Store the cordial in a sealed bottle in the fridge for up to a few weeks.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Drinks
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: British