Bring the water to a boil in a large saucepan.
Pour in the sugar and stir until dissolved.
Take the pan off the heat and tip in all the other ingredients: the elderflowers, citric acid and lemon zest and slices (including the zest and pips). Stir well.
Cover the pan with a lid or a clean tea towel and leave to steep for between 12 and 24 hours.
Drain through muslin or a nut milk bag into a clean jug.
Then pour into sterilised bottles.
Label your bottles and keep them in the fridge.
If every stage of the brewing process was kept scrupulously clean, your elderflower cordial should last for up to three months in a fridge.
Check periodically, and throw any away that shows signs of mould.
To use, pour 1- 2 cm of cordial in a glass and top up with water.
Add more or less to find your perfect blend.
Please enjoy my recipe! Jane | hedgecombers.com