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Homemade Elderberry Syrup: Easy Honey Ginger Recipe

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This homemade elderberry syrup with honey and ginger is a comforting, immune-boosting remedy that’s quick and easy to make. With simple ingredients and a perfect sweet-spicy flavor, it’s a staple for cold season that even kids love.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup dried elderberries
  • 4 cups filtered water
  • 1 cup raw honey
  • 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, peeled and thinly sliced
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 1 teaspoon whole cloves
  • 1 orange peel, cut into strips (optional)

Instructions

  1. Combine the base ingredients: In a medium saucepan, add the dried elderberries, sliced ginger, cinnamon stick, whole cloves, and orange peel (if using). Pour in the 4 cups of filtered water. Do not add the honey yet.
  2. Bring to a boil: Place the saucepan over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a rolling boil. This takes about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Reduce and simmer: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently, uncovered, for 30-35 minutes. Stir every 10 minutes.
  4. Check the consistency: After 30 minutes, the liquid should be syrupy and deeply colored. If too thin, simmer another 5-10 minutes until it resembles maple syrup.
  5. Strain the solids: Place a fine-mesh strainer over a glass measuring cup or bowl. Carefully pour the hot liquid through the strainer, pressing the berries and ginger with a wooden spoon to extract all liquid. Discard the solids.
  6. Cool slightly: Let the strained liquid cool for 15-20 minutes until warm but not hot.
  7. Add the honey: Once cooled, pour in the 1 cup of raw honey and stir gently until fully dissolved.
  8. Bottle and store: Using a funnel, pour the finished syrup into a clean glass jar. Seal tightly and let cool completely to room temperature before refrigerating.

Notes

Do not overcook elderberries (max 35 minutes) to avoid bitterness. Toast spices in a dry pan for 30 seconds per side before adding water for deeper flavor. Use a potato masher for efficient straining. The syrup freezes well in ice cube trays for up to 6 months. Always label jars with the date. Honey is not suitable for children under 1 year; substitute with maple syrup or agave if needed.

Nutrition

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