Elder Flower Cordial made simple. 

Elder Flowers

I just made a batch of what I call Elder Flower Cordial. Very simple. Take the
cleaned and de-stemmed elder flowers and place layers of flowers and sugar in
large glass or stainless steel container. Top off with boiling water. Add citrus zest
and lemon/lime juice. Stir and prep the canning jars. Strain the liquid and while
still hot add to canning jars. This syrup can be added to lemonade, hot or cold
teas and sparkling water for a refreshing summer drink. ThisCordial will help to
reduce fever.
Alternate recipe. Same as above but do not can immediately. Wait 24 hours uncovered.
Can the cold liquid into sterile jars and let ferment un-opend for 6
months or more. This will produce an elderflower champagne with a hint of sparkle.
The other option is to make a hydro sol. This uses a pot still. One can do a small
home version with a stainless steel 10-12 qt. pot with lid and two ceramic bowls.
1. Place an upside down bowl into pot and put the second bowl right side up on
top of the inverted bowl.
2. Fill pan with water, until the top of the water is even with the inverted bowl on
the bottom
3. Place a thick layer of elder flowers on the water in your pot
4. Begin heating pan of water containing flowers and bowls.
5. Place ice filled lid upside down on pan of water, just as it begins to steam.
6. Simmer slowly being careful not to cook it dry, Stop before it does.
7. Check the level of the flower water in the small, upper bowl. Once it is filled,
turn off heat.
8. Leave lid on until cooled.
Remove upper bowl of cooled flower water. This is elder flower hydrosol