Uses for Elderberries: Recipes and Preparations

Introduction

Elderberries have been used for centuries in food and traditional medicine. From immune-boosting syrup to delicious wines and jams, there are countless ways to enjoy your elderberry harvest. Remember: elderberries must be cooked before consumption.

Elderberry Syrup

The most popular elderberry preparation, known for supporting immune health during cold and flu season.

Basic Elderberry Syrup Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup dried elderberries (or 2 cups fresh)
• 3 cups water
• 1 cup raw honey (or sugar)
• Optional: 1 cinnamon stick, 3-4 whole cloves, 1 tbsp fresh ginger

Instructions:

1. Combine elderberries, water, and spices in a saucepan.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45 minutes until liquid is reduced by half.
3. Remove from heat and let cool to lukewarm.
4. Mash berries to release remaining juice.
5. Strain through cheesecloth or fine mesh strainer.
6. Add honey and stir until dissolved.
7. Pour into glass jar and store in refrigerator.

Storage: 2-3 months refrigerated

Dosage: Adults: 1 tablespoon daily for prevention; 1 tablespoon every 2-3 hours when sick. Children (1+): 1 teaspoon daily.

Elderberry Jelly

A delicious spread with a unique, complex flavor.

Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 3 cups elderberry juice (from about 3 lbs fresh berries)
• 4.5 cups sugar
• 1 box powdered pectin
• 1/4 cup lemon juice

Instructions:

1. Extract juice by cooking berries with minimal water, then straining.
2. Combine juice, lemon juice, and pectin in a large pot.
3. Bring to a rolling boil, stirring constantly.
4. Add sugar all at once.
5. Return to rolling boil for 1 minute.
6. Remove from heat, skim foam, and ladle into sterilized jars.
7. Process in water bath canner for 10 minutes.

Elderberry Wine

A traditional country wine with deep color and complex flavor.

Basic Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 3 lbs elderberries
• 3 lbs sugar
• 1 gallon water
• Wine yeast
• 1 tsp yeast nutrient
• 1 tsp acid blend

Instructions:

1. Crush berries and pour boiling water over them.
2. Let steep for 24 hours, then strain.
3. Add sugar and stir until dissolved.
4. When cool, add yeast, nutrient, and acid blend.
5. Ferment in primary for 5-7 days.
6. Transfer to carboy and ferment until clear (several months).
7. Bottle and age at least 6 months.

Elderberry Tincture

A concentrated preparation for immune support.

Recipe:

1. Fill a jar 1/3 full with dried elderberries.
2. Cover with 80-proof vodka or vegetable glycerin.
3. Seal and store in a dark place for 4-6 weeks, shaking daily.
4. Strain and store in dark glass bottles.

Dosage: 30-60 drops, 2-3 times daily.

Elderberry Vinegar

Adds elderberry benefits to salad dressings and marinades.

1. Fill a jar halfway with fresh elderberries.
2. Cover with raw apple cider vinegar.
3. Seal with a plastic lid and let steep 4-6 weeks.
4. Strain and bottle.

Dried Elderberries

The best way to preserve your harvest for year-round use.

Drying Methods:

• Dehydrator: 135°F for 8-12 hours until completely dry
• Oven: Lowest setting with door cracked, 8-12 hours
• Air Drying: Spread on screens in a warm, dry, well-ventilated area for 1-2 weeks

Storage: Airtight container in cool, dark place for up to 1 year.

Elderflower Uses

The flowers have their own delicious applications:

• Elderflower Cordial: Fragrant syrup for beverages
• Elderflower Fritters: Battered and fried flower heads
• Elderflower Tea: Dried flowers steeped in hot water
• Elderflower Champagne: Lightly fermented floral beverage

Culinary Uses

• Add to muffins, pancakes, and other baked goods
• Make elderberry pie or cobbler
• Create elderberry BBQ sauce
• Mix into smoothies and yogurt
• Use as a natural food coloring

Safety Notes

• Always cook elderberries before consuming.
• Remove all stems before cooking.
• Start with small amounts if you've never consumed elderberry.
• Consult a healthcare provider if pregnant, nursing, or taking medications.
• Elderberry may interact with immunosuppressant drugs and diabetes medications.