Midsummer Mirth: Crafting Delightful Elderflower Cordials with Minnesota Bounty

Hey foodies! Jackie Maple here, and today we’re diving into a delightful summer treat that's as refreshing as a cool breeze off Lake Superior. We're talking elderflower cordial—a classic beverage that captures the essence of a warm Minnesota summer day.

Ingredients:

• 25-30 elderflower heads
• 1.5 liters water
• 1 kg granulated sugar
• 4 lemons, sliced
• 50g citric acid

Instructions:

1. Begin by giving your elderflower heads a gentle shake to remove any insects or debris. If you need to, give them a quick rinse, but try to avoid rinsing off too much pollen—it's where the magic flavor resides!
2. In a large pot, bring the water to a boil. Once boiling, remove from heat and stir in the sugar until dissolved completely.
3. Add the sliced lemons and citric acid to the pot, stir to combine.
4. Place the elderflower heads into the pot, making sure they are fully submerged. Cover and let the mix steep for 24 hours.
5. After 24 hours, strain the mixture through a muslin cloth or fine strainer into clean bottles with tight-fitting lids.

Serving Suggestions:

This elderflower cordial can be enjoyed in so many ways! Mix it with still or sparkling water for a refreshing drink, or get creative and add a splash to your summer cocktails. Its light floral notes pair wonderfully with gin, vodka, or even champagne. Feeling crafty? Drizzle some over fruit salads or desserts for an extra zing of summer.

So there you have it, folks! A simple yet exquisite way to bottle up the sunny charm of Minnesota's summer flora. Enjoy and share the love!