Guide to Flower Varieties for Cordial Flavours
Flower-based cordials have a long history of adding unique, fragrant flavours to beverages. Here are some flower varieties that make excellent cordials, along with tips for their use.
1. Elderflower (Sambucus nigra)
Elderflower is perhaps the most popular choice for cordials, known for its delicate sweetness and floral aroma.
Usage: Harvest the flowers in late spring. Simply steep them in boiling water with sugar and a splash of lemon juice for a refreshing cordial.
Flavour Profile: Light, floral, and slightly fruity.
2. Lavender (Lavandula)
Lavender provides a distinct aromatic quality that can elevate any cordial to an exquisite level.
Usage: Use fresh or dried lavender flowers. Infuse them in sugar syrup to create a vibrant lavender cordial, perfect in cocktails or spritzers.
Flavour Profile: Floral and herbaceous with a hint of earthiness.
3. Rose (Rosa)
Roses impart a fragrant, romantic flavour that can enhance the sweetness of a cordial.
Usage: Collect fresh rose petals and steep them in water and sugar. Use different varieties for varied tastes, from sweet to spicy.
Flavour Profile: Sweet, delicate, and fragrant.
4. Hibiscus (Hibiscus sabdariffa)
Hibiscus flowers yield a deep crimson colour and a tart flavour, making an exciting contrast in sweet drinks.
Usage: Dried hibiscus flowers are infused in hot water to create a tangy base, often enhanced with sugar and citrus.
Flavour Profile: Tart, fruity, with hints of berry.
5. Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla)
Chamomile flowers offer a soothing, apple-like flavour that can create calming seasonal beverages.
Usage: Infuse fresh or dried chamomile flowers in hot water. After straining, sweeten to taste for a gentle cordial.
Flavour Profile: Mild, sweet, and herbal.
6. Borage (Borago officinalis)
Borage flowers add a refreshing, cucumber-like flavour that pairs beautifully with other herbs.
Usage: Use fresh borage flowers in cocktails or non-alcoholic drinks. They can also be steeped into syrups for cordial.
Flavour Profile: Fresh, crisp, mildly sweet.
7. Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)
While primarily known as a culinary herb, rosemary flowers can also create unique floral cordial flavours.
Usage: Steep fresh rosemary flowers in sugar syrup for an aromatic infusion that can be used in cocktails or as a refreshing soda.
Flavour Profile: Earthy, pine-like, with a floral hint.
Tips for Making Flower Cordials
Quality Matters: Always use fresh, organic flowers, free from pesticides and chemicals.
Proportions: Experiment with flower-to-water ratios to find your preferred strength and flavour.
Storage: Keep cordials in sterilised bottles and refrigerate. They can last several weeks when properly stored.
Utilising these flower varieties can open up a world of delightful, homemade cordials that are perfect for any occasion.
