What can you do with elderflowers?

Elderflower is delicious mixed into cakes, tarts, trifles and jams. It pairs particularly well with tart fruits such as rhubarb and gooseberries. From casual nibbles to celebratory showstoppers, we have a whole host of fantastic floral recipes.

Why is my elderflower champagne not fizzy?

The fizz that characterises elderflower champagne is a result of bottling before the fermentation process has finished, normally this process is started by capturing wild yeast. This can cause problems: namely, lack of alcohol, exploding bottles and disappointing results.

Can you be poisoned by elderflower?

Though the flowers pose no harm, it’s worth knowing that the plants leaves and stems, and the seeds of the berries, can cause nausea and general unpleasantness if ingested without cooking. The reason for this is due to the presence of a couple of compounds. One of these is the cyanogenic glycoside sambunigrin.

What is the alcohol content of homemade elderflower champagne?

700g will produce about 7-8% alcohol, 1kg will produce about 10-11% alcohol. Add the sugar solution, lemon juice (or citric acid) and the tannin. Made this way, the wine and champagne will be very light bodied. If you prefer a richer bodied wine, add the concentrate or raisins at this point.

When should elderflowers be picked?

June
Elderflowers are ready around late May to mid-June. They’re best picked when the buds are freshly open on a warm, dry, sunny day, well away from traffic fumes. Give them a shake to remove any insects and rinse briefly in cold water before using.

Can you eat raw elderflowers?

Often overlooked, the lovely little white or yellow blossoms of the magical elder shrub are also edible and medicinal, with some very special benefits of their own.

Why has my elderflower champagne gone Mouldy?

If you listen closely you may hear the sound of fizzing. You may also see a little mould growing on the top, usually starting around the floating lemon shells. Don’t worry, this is quite normal. Along with the floating flowers and the fizzing sound, this is a signal that it’s time to bottle your champagne.

Why did my elderflower cordial explode?

Exploding bottles Essentially elderflower champagne is still fermenting. The bubbles are formed when the yeast “eats” the sugar forming alcohol and carbon dioxide. This gas can build up in the bottle and as it has nowhere to go the build up of pressure can cause an explosion.

Why is my elderflower champagne bitter?

The pith is unwanted as it can cause the elderflower to have a bitter taste. When the water has cooled add the lemon juice, the lemon zest and the vinegar. Stir well. Add the elderflowers and stir gently making sure they are fully immersed in the liquid.

How long will elderflower champagne keep?

The fizz in elderflower champagne is generated by active yeasts that will continue to work in the bottle for up to four months.

Can you eat elderflowers raw?

How to use elderflowers. The flowers and berries are the only edible part of the plant. They are mildly toxic and have an unpleasant taste when raw. Cooking destroys the toxic chemicals.