Available in eBook and Paperbak

Wild Berry Cordial

A sweet, fermented beverage made from wild berries and honey.

Ingredients:

2 cups (300 g) of mixed wild berries (blackberries, raspberries, blueberries, or elderberries)

1/2 cup (170 g) of honey

1/2 cup (120 ml) of water

Optional: 1 tbsp (15 ml) of lemon juice for added tartness

Instructions:

1. In a medium pot, combine the berries, honey, and water.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10–15 minutes until the berries break down.
3. Mash the berries with a spoon or potato masher to release more juice.
4. Remove the mixture from heat and allow it to cool slightly.
5. Strain the mixture through a fine sieve or cheesecloth to remove the berry skins and seeds.
6. Pour the cordial into a clean glass jar or bottle.
7. Let the cordial ferment by leaving it at room temperature (70° F/ 21.11° C) for at least 36 hours. For a non-alcoholic version, skip the fermentation process and store it immediately in the refrigerator.
8. Once fermented, refrigerate the cordial and serve chilled.

Nutritional Information (per 4 oz serving): Calories: 60, Carbohydrates: 16g, Sugars: 15g, Vitamin C: 10% of daily value, Fiber: 1g

If using elderberries, ensure they are fully ripe and cooked, as raw or undercooked elderberries can be toxic. Also, over-fermentation can lead to a higher alcohol content, so monitor the fermenting time carefully.