Are you looking for a delicious and healthy way to boost your immune system? Look no further than homemade elderberry syrup! This easy recipe provides a simple guide to making and canning your own batch of this delicious and nutritious remedy, ensuring you have a supply of this powerful immune-supporting syrup all year round. This recipe is perfect for those seeking healthy meals, quick dinner additions (a spoonful in yogurt, perhaps!), or simply a delicious and easy homemade treat. It’s one of the best recipes for utilizing this amazing berry!
Why Make Your Own Elderberry Syrup?
Store-bought elderberry syrups often contain added sugars and preservatives. Making your own gives you complete control over the ingredients, ensuring a pure and potent product. Canning your elderberry syrup allows you to enjoy its benefits throughout the year, making it a fantastic addition to your homemade cooking repertoire. This simple process makes it a great choice even for beginner cooks seeking delicious dishes.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups elderberries (fresh or frozen)
- 4 cups water
- 2 cups raw honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option)
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger (optional)
- 1/4 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed is best)
- Sterilized canning jars and lids
Equipment:
- Large saucepan
- Fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Funnel
- Canning pot (if canning)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Elderberries
Rinse the elderberries thoroughly under cold water. If using fresh berries, remove any stems or leaves.
Step 2: Simmering the Syrup
Combine the elderberries, water, cinnamon stick, cloves, and ginger (if using) in a large saucepan. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45-60 minutes, or until the berries have softened and released their juices. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Straining the Syrup
Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the mixture cool slightly. Pour the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth lined strainer into a large bowl, pressing on the solids to extract as much liquid as possible. Discard the solids.
Step 4: Sweetening and Adding Lemon Juice
Return the strained liquid to the saucepan. Stir in the honey (or maple syrup) and lemon juice. Heat gently, stirring constantly, until the honey is completely dissolved. Do not boil.
Step 5: Canning the Syrup (Optional)
If you’re canning your syrup, follow safe canning procedures. Ensure your jars and lids are sterilized. Fill the sterilized jars, leaving about 1/2 inch headspace. Wipe the rims clean, place lids and rings on, and process in a boiling water bath according to your jar manufacturer's instructions. This ensures long-term storage and preservation of the syrup.
Step 6: Cooling and Storage
If not canning, allow the syrup to cool completely before transferring it to sterilized bottles or jars. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 months.
Tips for the Best Elderberry Syrup:
- Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor and nutritional benefits.
- Adjust the amount of honey or maple syrup to your liking.
- For a smoother syrup, you can blend the cooked berries before straining.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for extra warmth and flavor.
Variations:
- Spicy Elderberry Syrup: Add a small chopped chili pepper to the simmering mixture for a spicy kick.
- Herbal Elderberry Syrup: Add other herbs like echinacea or ginseng for an extra immune boost.
Nutritional Information (per tablespoon, approximate):
This will vary based on the type of sweetener used. Nutritional information provided is for a recipe using honey. Always consult a nutritionist or use a nutrition calculator for precise values.
- Calories: Approximately 60-70
- Sugar: Approximately 15-20g
Enjoy your delicious and healthy homemade elderberry syrup! It's a perfect addition to your healthy meals and a great way to support your immune system throughout the year. Remember to consult with a healthcare professional before using elderberry syrup, particularly if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking medications.