Buy Dried Elderflower (Sambucus) - A Versatile Ingredient for Your Culinary Creations
Dried elderflower (from the Sambucus nigra plant) is a fragrant and beautifully delicate ingredient that has been cherished for centuries in kitchens around the world. Known for its sweet floral aroma, these small, creamy-colored blossoms add a unique flavor to both sweet and savory dishes. Whether you call it elderflower, holunder, fliederbusch, or holder, dried elderflower is a true kitchen staple.
What are Dried Elderflowers – Sambucus?
The elderflower, from the Sambucus family, is a deciduous shrub that grows up to 7 meters tall. Its creamy white to pale yellow flowers bloom between May and July, releasing a fruity, spicy fragrance. While elderflowers are decorative, they are also edible, making them a unique ingredient for enhancing beverages, desserts, and savory dishes.
Using Dried Elderflowers in the Kitchen – A World of Flavor
In the culinary world, dried elderflowers are a true delicacy. Their delicate, floral flavor enhances a variety of dishes, from refreshing beverages to sweet treats. The most popular use is in elderflower syrup, which is often mixed with water or sparkling wine for a refreshing drink. But that's not all—elderflowers are also great for flavoring jams, jellies, and cakes, adding a subtle floral sweetness to these confections.
Aside from sweets, dried elderflowers are also ideal for infusing oils or vinegars, adding a unique twist to salads and dressings. They are perfect for vegetarian and vegan dishes, helping to elevate flavors in creative ways.
If you're feeling adventurous in the kitchen, you can even dip elderflowers into pancake batter and fry them to make crispy elderflower fritters. These delightful treats are both visually appealing and full of flavor, perfect for a special breakfast or dessert.
Recipe: Elderflower Syrup
Ingredients:
- 500g cane sugar
- 500ml water
- 50g dried elderflowers
- 20g citric acid
- 1 organic orange and lemon
Preparation:
- Boil the water with cane sugar until the sugar has completely dissolved.
- Wash the orange and lemon thoroughly, slice them into thin slices, and add them along with the elderflowers to the sugar solution.
- Press down the mixture with a plate and allow it to steep in the refrigerator for 4 days.
- Strain the liquid through a fine sieve lined with kitchen paper, pressing the mixture to extract all the liquid.
- Bring the strained liquid to a boil and add the citric acid.
- Pour the syrup into clean bottles and store it in the refrigerator.
This homemade elderflower syrup is perfect for mixing with sparkling water, cocktails, or even as a topping for desserts like ice cream or fruit salads.
Recipe: Elderflower Salad Dressing
Ingredients: 15g Dijon mustard, 5g honey (such as acacia honey), 15-20ml elderflower syrup, 25ml white wine vinegar, 50ml olive oil, and salt and pepper to taste.
This unique dressing will give your salads a delightful floral note that complements fresh vegetables and greens.
Dried Elderflowers – A Creative Ingredient for Sweet and Savory Dishes
Dried elderflowers are not just for syrups or desserts. Try them in savory dishes by adding them to your marinades, sauces, or even as a seasoning for vegetables. Their light, floral aroma pairs beautifully with fruits like apples, pears, and apricots. The possibilities are endless!
Storage Tips for Dried Elderflowers
To preserve the quality of your dried elderflowers, store them in an airtight container in a cool, dry, and dark place. Proper storage will ensure that they retain their flavor and aroma for long-term use in your kitchen.
Order your premium dried elderflowers today and start experimenting with this unique ingredient in your cooking!
