Giving thanks to the Elder

It occurs to me as i look back at all the things i’ve been making with Elder throughout the seasons - from the blossom to the berries - what a versatile and abundant, available hedgerow resource we have in this native plant.

From these sometimes scraggly, unassuming little trees, and often garden weeds, we are blessed throughout the year - every year - with so many options for making. There have been a few disasters and weird outcomes as I have been experimenting with new recipes recently, but it’s been really fun trying out new ideas and combinations, and replenishing the family stores of old favourites in preparation for winter.

- Wines, Soaps, Syrups, Cordial, Compound Glycerite, Dried flowers, Dried berries,

Seaweed and Elderflower panna cotta (a John Wright recipe!), Elderflower and Rhubarb Jelly, and Muffins -