September has arrived and that means we are rewarded with the gorgeous elderberries. These little beauties are packed full of vitamins A, C, and antioxidants. Studies have shown the little purple berries are antiviral (helps to prevent colds) and immune boosting.
Over the last few years, I’ve made a fantastic elderberry rob / syrup to help me get through the winter months and I thought I’d share it with you.
To make this recipe you will need:
1. 800g fresh elderberries (stalks removed)
2. 1 litre of water
3. Cinnamon sticks, cloves, star anise, fresh ginger, orange peel or cardamon pods.
I tend to use what I have in my store cupboard. This year I added 2 cinnamon sticks, orange peel, 4 cloves and star anise. I mix and match as all these ingredients help with colds and flu.
4. Unrefined sugar (castor or granulated)
This recipe will make around 2 litres of the delicious rob.
Recipe Instructions:
1. Place your elderberries and spices in a pan with the water and bring to the boil. Simmer for 20 – 30 minutes or until the liquid has reduced slightly.
2. Use a potato masher to squeeze out the juice within the berries. I removed the larger spices such as the cinnamon sticks whilst mashing and then pop them back in the pan once you’ve finished squishing your berries.
3. Remove the pan from the heat and leave to cool.
4. Strain through a muslin cloth and squeeze out the liquid.
5. Measure the liquid, return to the pan and add equal parts of sugar (i.e., 500ml liquid + 500g sugar).
6. Bring to the boil, stirring until the sugar dissolves and simmer for 10 – 15 minutes, until the syrup is reduced and slightly thickened.
7. Pour the hot syrup into sterilised bottles, seal, label & date.
8. Keep unopened, in a cool and dark place for 6 months. Once, opened keep in the fridge and use within 2 weeks.
To use:
The elderberry rob can be taken as a 10 – 20 ml drink either neat or diluted with water. I personally like to use the rob when I feel the first signs of a cold or cough appearing. I add it to a pan, warming it slightly, before I add a tipple of whiskey or brandy!
I hope this helps keeps you cold free during the winter months.
Love Kirsty x
*Disclaimer* The information in this blog post is for educational purposes. It is not a replacement for professional medical advice. As a qualified aromatherapist, please contact me if you have any questions relating to essential oils.
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