Creating cordials from flowers is a delightful way to celebrate the flavours of nature. Here are some popular flowers that can be used to make refreshing and fragrant cordials.
1. Elderflower (Sambucus nigra)
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Description: Elderflowers are small, star-shaped white blossoms that have a sweet, aromatic scent.
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Uses: The flowers can be steeped in water with sugar and lemon juice to create a light, floral cordial that is perfect for summer drinks.
2. Rose (Rosa spp.)
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Description: Roses are available in various colours and provide a rich floral aroma with subtle notes that vary by variety.
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Uses: Rose petals can be steeped in hot water to extract their flavours. A simple syrup made from sugar and rose infusion creates a luxurious cordial, ideal for cocktails or sparkling water.
3. Lavender (Lavandula spp.)
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Description: Lavender boasts beautiful purple spikes and a calming fragrance.
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Uses: Lavender can be infused in water with sugar to create a fragrant cordial that adds a floral note to lemonade or prosecco.
4. Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla)
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Description: Chamomile flowers are small, daisy-like blooms with a sweet, apple-like scent.
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Uses: Chamomile can be brewed like a tea and then sweetened to create a soothing cordial that pairs well with gin or can be enjoyed alone.
5. Hibiscus (Hibiscus sabdariffa)
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Description: Hibiscus flowers are vibrant red and have a tart, fruity flavour.
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Uses: Dried hibiscus flowers can be steeped to make a tangy syrup that creates a stunning red cordial, ideally served with sparkling water.
6. Violet (Viola spp.)
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Description: Violet flowers are small and delicate, available in shades of purple and blue, with a sweet, perfumed flavour.
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Uses: The flowers can be used to make a syrup that adds a unique taste to cocktails and desserts, or simply mixed with soda water for a refreshing drink.
7. Borage (Borago officinalis)
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Description: Borage has star-shaped blue flowers with a mild cucumber flavour.
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Uses: Borage flowers can be infused into a syrup, lending a refreshing taste that is wonderful in summer refreshments.
8. Dandelion (Taraxacum spp.)
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Description: The dandelion flower is bright yellow and known for its earthy taste.
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Uses: Dandelion flowers can be used to create a rich, herbal cordial with a distinct flavour, enjoyable when mixed with lemonade.
Harvesting Tips
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Time of Day: Harvest flowers in the morning when their fragrance and flavour are at their peak.
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Preparation: Ensure flowers are pesticide-free and wash them gently before use.
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Using edible flowers to make cordials not only enhances drinks with flavour but also adds a visual appeal. Experimenting with different flowers can yield unique results, perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the creative process and the delightful tastes of your homemade cordials.