I wanted to share my recipe for Elderberry Syrup with you all so if you ever decided making it is something you want to try out, you don't have to hunt online for a simple recipe.... it'll all be here. When I first decided to take a shot at it, it took me weeks to find a recipe i was comfortable with and fully understand why each step was taken in that order. I've laid it all out for you here. You're more than welcome to ask questions and feel free to tweak it and add other things that you might find beneficial to you and your family.
Recipe:
3 cups of water
1 cup of dried elderberries
3 cinnamon sticks
6 cloves
4 slices of peeled, fresh ginger
1 cup honey (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add water, dried elderberries, cinnamon, cloves and ginger in a pan.
2. Bring to a low boil.
3. Once it's at a boil, lower temp to a simmer (i put it on 2 out of a 10 stovetop heat) and cover.
4. Let simmer for 40-50 minutes.
5. Take off of stove and let cool to room temp.
6. Once cool strain using a cheese cloth, cotton muslin bag or even a bandana (make sure it's been washed previously)
7. Once strained, add 1/2-1 cup of honey and mix well. It's personal preference on how much you add. This is also the time to add most other options such as vitamin c if desired.
8. Refrigerate in an airtight container or jar. (one month fridge life)