Ingredients
1 cup dried elderberries
4 cups filtered water
2–3 inches fresh ginger, peeled and sliced
2 cinnamon sticks
1/2 teaspoon whole cloves
1 cup raw local honey (or to taste)
Instructions
Step 1: Combine the dried elderberries, water, fresh ginger, cinnamon sticks, and whole cloves in a large saucepan.
Step 2: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 45-60 minutes, or until the liquid has reduced by about one-third to one-half.
Step 3: Remove the pot from the heat and let it cool for about 10-15 minutes.
Step 4: Place a fine-mesh sieve over a large mixing bowl. Pour the elderberry mixture through the sieve, pressing down on the solids with the back of a spoon to extract as much liquid as possible. Discard the spent elderberries and spices.
Step 5: Allow the strained elderberry liquid to cool completely to room temperature. This is crucial for preserving the beneficial enzymes in raw honey.
Step 6: Once the liquid is cool, stir in the raw honey until it is fully dissolved. Taste and adjust sweetness if desired.
Step 7: Pour the finished elderberry syrup into clean, airtight glass jars or bottles. Store it in the refrigerator. It will last for 2-3 months.
Notes
Always consult with a healthcare professional before using herbal remedies, especially if pregnant, breastfeeding, or on medication. Ensure elderberries are cooked thoroughly if using fresh berries, as raw elderberries contain toxic compounds.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: How To
- Cuisine: Herbal, American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tbsp (15ml)
- Calories: 50 kcal
- Sugar: 12 g
- Sodium: 0 mg
- Fat: 0 g
- Saturated Fat: 0 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 13 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Protein: 0 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
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