Bear_Hill_Botanicals_Elderberry_Syrup

Elderberry Syrup - A Recipe for Winter Wellness

Recipe:
Bear Hill Botanicals Elderberry Syrup

Elderberry is delicious anytime of the year. But in Winter, during cold and flu season it's an absolute essential in our home. And the good news is, it's very easy to make using this simple recipe.

We buy dried elderberries in bulk and store them in a cool dry cupboard so we'll have them on hand all season long. 

Dried Elderberries_Bear Hill Botanicals(Note: when buying, we often choose wild-crafted berries by the pound ...they not only produce a delicious elderberry syrup, but berries grown in their own wild habitat have had the opportunity to develop natural immune boosting chemistry. There's something special about the 'wild ones').

You will need:
1 generous Cup dried elderberries (pre-soaked with just enough water to cover)
3 Cups filtered water
1 stick Cinnamon (optional)
1 Cup Honey
1 piece cheesecloth or mesh strainer
Jar(s) for bottling your syrup

Pre-soak berries about 15 minutes. or longer if you have time...
Bring the 3 cups water and 1 Cup pre-soaked elderberries with the soaking water to a boil. Add 1 stick cinnamon and/or your other optional ingredients (see below). Let all simmer on low heat for about 30 mins covered.
Let the mixture cool down (partially uncovered) until warm. 
Using a strainer or cheesecloth, squeeze all of the juice out of the berries for maximum potency.
Add the1 Cup honey to the warm, strained elderberry juice, stirring until well mixed. Pour into glass jar. Refrigerate.

When we make this recipe, it yields enough elderberry syrup to fill a 2 lb (former honey) jar.

Refrigerate your syrup. It will last about 3 months in the frig... although we usually go through ours within a month. It tastes SO good. 
Adults: Take 3 spoonfuls 2 x daily during cold/flu season.
You can also pour it over pancakes, or use the syrup to make a delicious festive spritz or add to warm brandy... there are so many ways to enjoy this...

As an FYI, a one pound bag of elderberries will yield about 4 batches of elderberry syrup, if using this recipe. Please remember that all elderberries MUST be cooked - do not eat them raw.

Options: you can also add a few slivers of orange peel, or a slice or two of ginger, or a pinch of clove to your elderberries while they are simmering - just remember to strain all of the plant matter out before pouring into your bottle.

Hope you enjoy this yummy, immune boosting treat.
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