herbal cordial recipe
Discover the delightful herbal cordial recipe naturally! Refreshing, flavorful, and packed with health benefits. 🍃🍋
Equipment
- 1 - Medium saucepan For boiling water and steeping herbs.
- 1 Fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth To strain the cordial.
- 1 Airtight container For storing the finished cordial.
Ingredients
Fresh Herbs
- 1 cup Mint, Rosemary, or Chamomile Choose one or a mix of fresh herbs.
- 1-2 cups Sugar Adjust based on sweetness preference.
Water
- 4 cups Filtered Water For boiling and steeping.
Citrus Fruits
- 1 each Lemon or Orange For added zest.
Spices
- 1 inch Ginger or Cinnamon Stick Optional for extra flavor.
Instructions
Gather Your Ingredients
- Start by collecting fresh herbs like mint, rosemary, or chamomile. You will also need sugar, water, and optional citrus fruits like lemon or lime for added zest.
Boil the Water
- In a medium saucepan, bring about 4 cups of water to a rolling boil. This step is crucial, as it helps to extract the essential oils from the herbs.
Add the Herbs
- Once the water is boiling, remove it from heat. Add your chosen herbs to the water. If you’re using spices, like ginger or cinnamon, now is the time to include them.
Sweeten the Mixture
- Stir in sugar to taste. Generally, 1 to 2 cups will do, depending on your preference. Remember, you can always adjust the sweetness later!
Let It Steep
- Cover the saucepan and let the mixture steep for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. If you prefer a stronger infusion, feel free to steep it longer.
Strain the Cordial
- After steeping, use a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth to strain the liquid into a clean bottle. This step ensures a smooth cordial without any herb bits.
Bottle and Cool
- Allow the cordial to cool to room temperature before sealing it in an airtight container. This is important for preserving the flavors.
Store Properly
- Place your herbal cordial in the refrigerator. It can last for several weeks, so you can enjoy it whenever you like!