The Ultimate Blackcurrant Cordial Recipe: A Burst of Summer in Every Sip

Blackcurrant cordial is a delicious and versatile drink, perfect for a refreshing summer beverage or as a sophisticated addition to cocktails and desserts. This recipe guides you through creating your own homemade cordial, bursting with the rich, dark flavor of blackcurrants. Forget those mass-produced versions – this recipe delivers superior taste and quality, allowing you to control the sweetness and intensity.

Ingredients You'll Need:

This recipe makes approximately 1 litre of cordial. Adjust quantities as needed.

• 1kg ripe blackcurrants: Choose plump, juicy blackcurrants for the best flavor. Slightly underripe currants will also work, resulting in a slightly less sweet cordial.
• 1 litre water: Use filtered or spring water for the purest taste.
• 1kg granulated sugar: Adjust the sugar quantity to your preference. You can use less for a less sweet cordial, or more for a sweeter one.
• 1 large lemon: The juice and zest add brightness and complexity to the flavor profile.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preparing the Blackcurrants:

• Wash and top: Gently wash the blackcurrants under cold running water. Remove any stems or leaves.
• Crush the currants: You can crush them gently by hand, using a potato masher, or even a food processor. Aim for a slightly pulpy consistency, leaving some whole berries for texture.

2. The Simmering Process:

• Combine ingredients: In a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the crushed blackcurrants, water, and sugar. Stir well to ensure the sugar dissolves.
• Simmer gently: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Do not boil vigorously. Simmering allows the flavors to meld and prevents burning.
• Simmer time: Simmer for approximately 20-25 minutes, or until the blackcurrants have softened and released their juices.

3. Extracting the Flavor:

• Strain the mixture: Once simmered, remove the pan from the heat and let it cool slightly. Line a fine-mesh sieve or colander with cheesecloth or a clean muslin cloth. Carefully pour the mixture through the sieve, pressing gently on the solids to extract as much juice as possible. This step is crucial for a clear, delicious cordial.

4. Bottling and Storage:

• Cool and bottle: Allow the strained cordial to cool completely. Once cooled, pour it into sterilized bottles.
• Storage: Store the cordial in the refrigerator. It should keep for several weeks.

Serving Suggestions:

• Diluted with water: The classic way to enjoy blackcurrant cordial is diluted with chilled sparkling or still water. Adjust the ratio to your liking.
• Cocktails: Add a splash to cocktails for a vibrant, fruity twist.
• Desserts: Use it as a glaze for cakes, or as a flavouring ingredient in desserts.
• Summer punches: Create a refreshing summer punch by combining it with other fruit juices and sparkling water.

Tips for the Best Blackcurrant Cordial:

• Use ripe fruit: The quality of your blackcurrants directly impacts the flavor of the cordial.
• Adjust sweetness: Don't be afraid to adjust the sugar quantity to suit your taste preferences.
• Sterilize bottles: Sterilizing your bottles ensures your cordial lasts longer.
• Experiment with flavors: Add a pinch of spice like cardamom or star anise for an extra layer of flavour.

This recipe provides a fantastic base for your homemade blackcurrant cordial journey. Feel free to experiment and find your perfect balance of sweetness and tartness! Enjoy the delicious results of your homemade cordial, a truly delightful taste of summer.