Important PSA: Do not eat any part of elderberry plant raw, including seeds, steams, and berries!
Elderberries contain a toxin that produces cyanide when metabolized which can cause nausea, vomiting, and severe diarrhea. Thankfully, cooking eliminates this toxin so you can enjoy the benefits of elderberries!
Elderberries are rich in fiber, Vitamin C, and antioxidants. Many people take elderberry syrup during cold and full season to help boost their immune system. Taking 1 Tbsp regularly may help you from getting sick or reduce the severity of a cold.
With SLO CSA shares you can get the elderberries and honey for this recipe.
Prep: 15 minutes | Cook: 1 hour
INGREDIENTS
- 1 quart fresh or frozen elderberries, stems removed
- 2 cups water
- Juice of 2 lemons
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 1 Tbsp cloves
- 1 tsp vanilla
- 1 (2 inch) piece fresh ginger, peeled
- ½ cup raw honey
DIRECTIONS
- Place berries in a sauce pan and pour the water over.
- Add cinnamon stick, vanilla, juice, ginger and cloves.
- Bring to a boil, cover and simmer for 1 hour.
- Remove from heat, squish any remaining juice from berries.
- Strain liquid into a bowl with a fine strainer.
- Stir in honey.
- Pour into jar and store in fridge for 2-3 months.
Items Available from SLO:
You can get organic and local ingredients for this recipe with a SLO CSA share. We have elderberries and honey.
Download Elderberry Syrup