Introduction
Elderberry syrup is a time-honored remedy celebrated for its immune-supporting properties. It blends the tart, earthy flavor of elderberries with sweet honey and warming spices. Perfect for cold and flu season or as a daily wellness boost, this syrup is versatile for drizzling over pancakes or mixing into tea. Its simple preparation makes it accessible for home cooks of all levels. This recipe delivers a classic elderberry syrup, adaptable for dietary preferences, best stored chilled for a soothing, healthful addition to your routine.
Ingredients
For the Elderberry Syrup:
- 1 cup dried elderberries (or 2 cups fresh elderberries)
- 4 cups water
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1-inch piece fresh ginger, peeled and sliced
- 5 whole cloves
- 1 cup raw honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
For Serving:
- Optional: Add to tea, sparkling water, or yogurt
- Suggested Pairings: Herbal tea, oatmeal, or waffles
- Suggested Equipment: Medium saucepan, fine mesh strainer, glass jar with lid
Step-by-Step Process
- Simmer Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine dried elderberries, water, cinnamon stick, ginger, and cloves. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cook uncovered for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the liquid reduces by about half.
- Strain Mixture: Remove from heat and let cool slightly for 5 minutes. Strain through a fine mesh strainer into a heat-safe bowl, pressing on the berries with a spoon to extract all liquid. Discard solids (do not compost raw elderberries, as they can be toxic).
- Add Sweetener: Once the liquid cools below 100°F (to preserve honey’s benefits), stir in honey and lemon juice until fully dissolved. If using maple syrup, it can be added immediately after straining.
- Store: Pour syrup into a clean glass jar with a tight lid. Let cool completely before sealing. Refrigerate for up to 1 month.
- Serve: Take 1 tbsp daily for adults or 1 tsp for children (over 1 year) as a wellness boost, or drizzle over pancakes. Mix into tea or sparkling water for a refreshing drink. Serve with herbal tea or oatmeal for a cozy pairing.
Tips for Better Elderberry Syrup
- Use dried elderberries from a reputable source to ensure quality and safety; raw elderberries are toxic if not cooked.
- Simmer gently to avoid scorching; stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Cool liquid before adding honey to preserve its enzymes; use a thermometer if unsure.
- Strain thoroughly to remove all solids for a smooth syrup.
- Store in a glass jar to avoid plastic leaching; sterilize the jar for longer shelf life.
- Shake the jar before each use, as separation is natural.
- Adjust the honey to taste, but keep it sweet to balance the elderberry’s tartness.
- Make ahead: Double the batch for a month’s supply; freeze extras in ice cube trays.
Variations and Customization
-
Vegan Elderberry Syrup: Replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar.
- Spice-Free Elderberry Syrup: Omit cinnamon, ginger, and cloves for a simpler flavor.
- Citrus Elderberry Syrup: Add zest of 1 orange or increase lemon juice to 2 tbsp.
- Herbal Elderberry Syrup: Include 1 tbsp dried rosehips or echinacea during simmering.
- Low-Sugar Elderberry Syrup: Reduce honey to 1/2 cup; note shorter shelf life (2 weeks).
- Elderberry Elixir: Add 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar for a tangy, probiotic boost.
- Kid-Friendly Elderberry Syrup: Blend with 1/4 cup apple juice after straining for a milder flavor.
- Spicy Elderberry Syrup: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a warming kick.
Storage and Serving Tips
- Store in an airtight glass jar in the fridge for up to 1 month; check for mold or off-odors before use.
- Freeze in ice cube trays for up to 3 months; thaw cubes in the fridge for single servings.
- Do not heat syrup above 100°F to preserve honey’s benefits; warm gently if needed.
- Serve in small doses (1 tbsp daily for adults, 1 tsp for kids over 1) to avoid digestive upset.
- Avoid giving honey to infants under 1 year old due to the risk of botulism.
- Use as a topping for yogurt or waffles, or mix into smoothies for added flavor.
- Pair with herbal tea to enhance its soothing effects during the cold season.
- Stir before pouring to remix the settled ingredients.
Nutritional Information
- Based on 32 servings (1 tbsp each):
- Calories: 25 kcal
- Total Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 0mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 6g
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 0g
- Vitamin A: 2% Daily Value
- Vitamin C: 4% Daily Value
- Calcium: 0% Daily Value
- Iron: 2% Daily Value
Note: Nutritional values vary based on ingredient brands and sweetener choice. This syrup is low in calories but high in natural sugars from honey. Elderberries provide antioxidants; consult a doctor before use if pregnant or immunocompromised. Not a substitute for medical treatment.
Conclusion
This elderberry syrup recipe delivers an immune-boosting, sweet remedy that’s perfect for cold season or daily wellness, transforming simple ingredients into a healthful classic. Its easy preparation and versatile uses make it a favorite for home cooks. The tart elderberries and soothing honey create a delightful combination. This recipe is sure to become a staple, cherished for its simplicity and wellness benefits.
Elderberry Syrup Recipe: Immune-Boosting and Sweet
Ingredients
- 1 cup dried elderberries
- 4 cups water
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1- inch fresh ginger
- 5 whole cloves
- 1 cup raw honey
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Optional: Add to the tea
- Suggested Pairings: Herbal tea oatmeal
Instructions
- Simmer elderberries, water, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves for 30-40 minutes; reduce by half.
- Strain liquid, pressing berries; discard solids.
- Cool to below 100°F; stir in honey, lemon juice.
- Store in a glass jar; refrigerate.
- Take 1 tbsp daily; serve with tea, oatmeal.
Notes
- Use cooked elderberries only; raw ones are toxic.
- Store in fridge up to 1 month, freeze 3 months.
- Try a vegan variation.
- Pair with waffles.
