Step 1

Check elderflowers for dirt and little insects - don't wash!

Step 2

Add elderflowers, lemon slices and citric acid to the water in a big pan. (The only ingredient not yet going in is the sugar)

Step 3

Heat up to boiling point, stirring occasionally, remove from heat, cover and let infuse overnight, or for at least four hours.

Step 4

Strain the liquid through a muslin cloth, to catch all the flowers. Squeeze all that yummy flavour out of the pulp in the muslin!

Step 5

Return liquid to the pan and add the sugar.

Step 6

Bring to boil again, stirring frequently to dissolve all the sugar, and simmer for 5 minutes.

Step 7

In the meantime, sterilise some glass bottles (don't forget about the lids!) with boiling water. If you are going to use a funnel or any other pouring aid, sterilise that, too.

Step 8

Bottle up the finished cordial while it's still boiling hot.

Step 9

Depending on desired sweetness, dilute 1:5 to 1:10.

Step 10

Best enjoyed with sparkling mineral water.

Step 11

Optional: Squeeze in some fresh lemon for extra tanginess!