Refreshing summer quenchers

Elderflower cordial

Elderflower cordial is a drink that I absolutely relish on a hot, sunny day. It does contain some sugar in order to preserve it successfully, but you can reduce the quantities for a sharper flavour, which I love.

Makes 1 litre

◼ 20 elderflower heads, freshly opened

◼ 5 lemons, peeled and chopped

◼ 5 litres boiling water

◼ 750g sugar

◼ 1-5 tsp citric acid, to taste

1 Place the elderflowers and lemon in a large bowl and pour over the boiling water. Cover and leave at room temperature overnight or in the fridge for a few days.

2 Strain through muslin into a large pan and discard the lemon and flowers.

3 Add the sugar and slowly bring to the boil, stirring until the sugar dissolves.

4 Taste the liquid and add citric acid until you are happy with the flavour. I like it quite sour.

5 Pour the liquid into sterilised bottles and store in a cool, dark place. It can keep for months or even a year or two, but look out for mould if you’ve had it for some time. If you spot mould, don’t drink it.

Rosehip vodka

Rosehips can be found in hedgerows and gardens in most temperate regions. They come in different colours, shapes and sizes, and not all roses produce rosehips, but the dog rose (Rosa canina) with its oval, firm fruits is probably best for flavouring vodka.

Makes 1.2 litres

◼ 500g rosehips

◼ 200g caster sugar

◼ 1 litre vodka

1 Clean the rosehips and place in a large airtight jar with the sugar. For best results, chop or prick the rosehips first.

2 Pour over the vodka and shake well. 3 Store in a cool, dark place, shaking the jar each week.

4 After at least four months, strain through muslin into a sterilised jar and discard the rosehips.

5 Store for as long as you can before drinking to allow the mixture to mature.

A classic on a hot summer’s day, elderflower cordial is very easy to make and keeps for months when stored in a cool, dark place