Gorse Flower Cordial

This is an early Spring recipe, as Gorse flowers are in bloom in February and March, and best picked when the gorse has had some sunshine to bring out the scent (of coconut).

Ingredients:

4 handfuls of gorse flowers

600ml cold water

zest of 2 oranges

juice of 1 lemon

150g of sugar

Method:

  • Ensure you use only the flowers (no twigs or spines)
  • Mix the water and sugar and boil rapidly for 10 minutes. Remove from heat.
  • In a big bowl, pour the sugar water over the gorse flowers; add the lemon juice and orange zest. Stir in well, and leave overnight.
  • Strain the liquid through a muslin bag / very fine sieve into a sterile bottle with a
  • Store in the fridge.

This Cordial is good with ice and soda water, or mixed into an interesting gin cocktail if that is your taste!