History Cookbook: Elderflower Jelly

Healthiness : (8 votes)

Difficulty:  
Preparation Time: 15 minutes, plus setting time.
Number of servings: Makes 4 small dishes.
Serving suggestions: Serve with sliced fresh fruit.


Elder is a common tree that grows in hedgerows and therefore was easy for people to pick and use in their cooking. Other juices or cordials can also be used but they may have different setting properties, so you will need to take care. This recipe was submitted by Fergus Martin, Chef at the Robinson Centre, Wyboston.

• 450ml of diluted elderflower cordial (personal taste)
• 3 leaves of gelatine

• Saucepan
• Small Glasses
• Wooden Spoon

Always wash your hands before preparing food.

1. Soak the gelatine leaves in water until soft
2. Heat the cordial until hot but not boiling.
3. Squeeze the gelatine to remove excess water and add to the cordial.
4. Pour into small glasses and allow to set in the fridge.

N.B If you wish to turn this jelly out you will need to add more gelatine.