If you missed making use of the elderflowers this year then now is the time to put the Vitamin C-rich berries to use.  A long time ago I was given a recipe for Elderberry Rob, a home-made winter medicine to harness the natural benefit of these berries to alleviate cold symptoms.

Ingredients

Approx 2kg elderberries weighed on the stem

5cm cinnamon stick

2.5cm bruised ginger

Optional pinch nutmeg

300ml water

340g honey

140ml brandy

Method

Remove berries from stems (a fork is best for this).  Simmer for 20 mins with water and spices.  Strain and add honey.  Simmer for 10 mins covered.  Allow to cool.  Add brandy and bottle.

This will last indefinitely in the fridge.  Take a couple of dessertspoons as hot as possible at night when cold symptoms begin.  Wrap up warm to induce sweating and the immune mechanisms should be boosted to fight off colds.