Elderflower cordial

It is June in the UK and we have a two week window to gather elderflower heads for cordial.  It is best to gather the flowers when they are in full bloom.  I understand that the 'sambucus nigra' (elder bush) is predominantly found in Europe.  Let me know what is found in the 'hedgerows' to make cordials in your country.

1.8kg caster or granulated sugar (white)

2 pints of boiling water

80g citric acid (from a pharmacy or amazon)

2 lemons

20 heads of elderflower

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1.  Mix the water and sugar together until the sugar is dissolved.  Cool.

2.  Add the citric acid and stir.

3.  Cut the lemons in half and squeeze out juice into the mixture.  Don't worry about pips.  Put the halved lemons in the bowl too.

4.  Add the elderflower heads and stir.

5.  Leave overnight, strain (through muslin if you are picky) and bottle.

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Thanks to my friend Rachel Newenham for this recipe.  I have taken a shot of the scribbled recipe because it holds memories for me.