What a year for Hawthorn blossom!! The hedgerows looked like clouds of candy floss for a while there. As we move through the seasons with different botanicals coming into bloom wanted to share our ultimate floral syrup recipe for capturing these seasonal flavours for enjoying Summer-long.

WHAT YOU’LL NEED..

Makes 1 litre (approx)

• 500g Water
• 500g Sugar
• 100g Edible Petals – Hawthorn / Elderflower / Rowan / Rose / Wisteria (remove stalks & or leaves)
• 1 Lemon (zest & juice) – Use only for Hawthorn, Elder or Rowan syrup

WHAT TO DO WITH IT ALL..

1. Add the water & sugar to a saucepan & bring to the boil until syrupy consistency (105 Deg C)
2. Add the petals to a large bowl & then pour over the hot syrup & leave to infuse for 24-48 hours for maximum flavour. If using Hawthorn, Elderflower or Rowan blossom, add the juice & zest of one lemon also & leave to infuse.
3. Filter the liquid through a jelly bag, muslin or a clean cloth into a jug or bowl to remove the flowers (& zest if added).
4. Decant into sterlised bottles & store in the fridge for up to 2 months. Keep for longer by freezing in plastic bottles just make sure you leave for the liquid to expand on freezing!

SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR YOUR FLORAL SYRUP..

• Serve with sparkling water/wine & ice for a refreshing Summer drink! Have a glass as part our garden tour & three-course lunch feast.
• Drizzle over a stack of freshly made pancakes & cream for an indulgent breakfast. Enjoy this with a stay in our botanical themed accommodation.
• Use as a base for the most refreshing sorbet. To make a batch of sorbet, add 400ml syrup, 200ml water & one egg white to an ice cream machine & churn to perfection!

When collecting any wild botanicals, make sure to follow these sustainable foraging guidelines. We hope you enjoy experimenting making your own floral syrup using the botanicals you have in your garden & local hedgerows.