Elderberry syrup, the perfect drink for hot seasons.

Elderberry is a plant from which excellent flowers are obtained to make elderflower syrup. Besides being thirst-quenching, elderflower syrup is rich in vitamins A, B, and C, along with numerous antioxidants that combat cellular aging and help the immune system. The substances contained in elderflower promote the elimination of uric acids, are beneficial for the liver, and prevent cardiovascular disorders. In short, you must have understood that it is very beneficial, but what you need to know is that it is also very tasty. Let's discover together its history and the uses it can have!

Elderflower syrup, origins and characteristics
 

Elderberry grows spontaneously in almost all regions of Italy up to 1,400 meters above sea level. It can be found at the edges of fields and alongside waterways. From the infusion of flowers with lemon juice and sugar, the beloved elderflower syrup is obtained, which, especially in Trentino-Alto Adige, is the star of numerous preparations: from the thirst-quenching drink to desserts, to the legendary Hugo aperitif. The syrup is bottled and stored in a cool place, usually in the cellar, and is an excellent refresher during the summer.

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Elderflower syrup, how is it made?
 

There are several methods to prepare elderflower syrup. There is practically no single recipe; everything is very subject to personal taste. The first method involves using: 15 flowers - 3 kg of sugar - 2 lemons - 60 g of citric acid - 2 l of water. The procedure is very simple: let the flowers marinate in the water with the lemons cut in half for two and a half hours. Remove the flowers and lemons, add the sugar and citric acid, and mix everything several times until the sugar is completely dissolved. Let it rest for about 24 hours, and then strain the contents; the syrup is now ready to be bottled and stored in the refrigerator. Another method consists of using 10 flowers - 3 kg of sugar - 6 lemons - 50 g of citric acid - white wine - 2 l of water. Boil the water with the sugar, then let it cool. Add 10 elderflowers, 6 or more peeled lemons, 1 glass of white wine, and 50 g of citric acid, and mix everything well. Let it rest in the sun for 6 days, stirring occasionally. Finally, strain the lemons, pass the liquid, and bottle the juice. These are just two ways to make your own elderflower syrup.

Elderflower syrup, discover the one from Spaghetti & Mandolino

The elderflower syrup you will find in our e-commerce is from Fontana BIO. Erica Fontana has chosen her land of Arcè. An architect who could not resist the call of the simplest and most genuine nature. The family-owned business was established in the early twentieth century on the banks of the Adige near the village of Pescantina, particularly in the hamlet of Arcè. The green and blue of the waters blend with a wild nature made up of linden trees, mulberries, brambles along the banks, and still wild elderberries. A small paradise where the Fontana family has been applying a strict organic protocol since 1996, in deep respect for their mother earth.

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Elderflower syrup, its culinary uses

The organic elderflower syrup from Fontana Bio is different from what you will find in large distribution supermarkets; it is a syrup that truly conveys the pleasant scent that elderflowers provide. In summer, it's an ideal drink because it refreshes. It can be diluted in still or sparkling water. For winter, it leverages its antipyretic power and is therefore ideal for helping to overcome feverish states, as it has the ability to stabilize body temperature. It is also ideal for its diuretic properties for those suffering from kidney stones. It should be taken pure in doses of 1 or 2 tablespoons to facilitate the departure of fever. It is also good in fruit ice cream and, as we have already mentioned, to make the legendary Hugo!. Don't forget the delicious strawberry compote with elderflowers and the many other organic compotes that you can find on Spaghetti & Mandolino.

Here’s the recipe for a glass of Hugo: 15 cl of Prosecco, 2 cl of elderflower syrup (or melissa), a splash of soda, 2 mint leaves, 1 slice of lemon or lime, or a slice of green apple. Preparation method: chill a glass, then add the elderflower syrup and a few ice cubes; pour in the wine and add the mint; dilute with sparkling water and stir gently; garnish with a wedge of lemon. Cheers!

Francesco Scuderi 

S&M