Elderflowers (fiori di sambuco) are in bloom in Italy! This flower from the elderberry tree makes a lovely light floral lemonade-like flavored syrup that can be added to drinks (sparking water, vodka, gin, or grappa), desserts, or sorbets. It makes an amazing vinaigrette over salad as well! This can be served along breakfast, brunch, lunch or dinner - perfect for a hot summer's day!
Syrup of Elderflower
Sciroppo di fiori di sambuco:
20 elderflowers (nice big heads), gently shake off any insects & trim any excess branches/leaves
4 lemons, sliced
1.5 kg sugar
1.8 liters water
60 gr citric acid
Bring the sugar and water to a boil, stirring occasionally to dissolve.
Once cooled, pour the the sugar-water and all ingredients into a big jar & cover, leave for 36-48 hours, stirring occasionally.
Then remove lemons & elderflowers and strain the water a few times (if you have a cheesecloth it will help).
Pour the syrup into a pot and cook for about 3-5 minutes minutes.
Then pour the liquid into clean sterilized glass bottles. Close them. Let them cool before placing in the refrigerator. If using a secure seal, they will keep for almost a year in the refrigerator.
To serve, pour 1-3 tablespoons of the syrup into a pint glass and add water or seltzer. Or you can add a tablespoon to a couple shots of vodka or gin.
Ashley Bartner is the Living in Italy Editor for Wandering Educators. You can find her recipes and photos at:
http://www.latavolamarche.com
http://latavolamarche.blogspot.com