Directions:
- Prepare Elderberries:
- In a large saucepan, combine the dried elderberries and water. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Simmer:
- Reduce the heat and let the mixture simmer for about 45 minutes, or until the liquid has reduced by half and the elderberries are softened.
- Mash and Strain:
- Use a potato masher to gently mash the elderberries in the pot. This helps release more juice.
- Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a large bowl, pressing down to extract as much liquid as possible. Discard the solids.
- Sweeten:
- Return the strained liquid to the saucepan. Stir in the honey, lemon juice, and optional spices (cinnamon and cloves).
- Heat gently over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the honey is fully dissolved.
- Reduce:
- Continue to simmer the syrup over low heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until it thickens to your desired consistency. The syrup will thicken further as it cools.
- Cool and Store:
- Allow the syrup to cool to room temperature.
- Pour it into a clean, sterilized jar or bottle. Store the syrup in the refrigerator for up to 3 months or in the freezer for up to 6 months.
- Use:
- This thick elderberry syrup can be taken by the spoonful for its immune-boosting benefits, or used as a sweetener in beverages, on pancakes, or in desserts.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes