Elderflower is one is key scents of summer in the UK, and can be used in a variety of foraging recipes, including elderflower cordial, elderflower gin and elder shortbread.
This recipe involves frying the elderflower heads in a thin and crispy batter to make a dainty and delicious treat.
When can elderflower be picked?
Elderflower usually starts to bloom in late May and early June. When foraging, it's vital to only pick something if you're sure you've correctly identified it. The flowers are creamy-white and smell sweet, and the leaves have between five and seven leaflets with festery edges.
Can elderberries be used for any recipes?
As the season progresses into autumn, shiny berries form where the elderflowers once bloomed. They are ripe when they are very dark purple, almost black, in colour. Elderberries should be cooked before consuming, as they are mildly poisonous – causing nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea.
Elderberries can be used to make elderberry wine, or combined with other berries for hedgerow ketchup.
Learn more about identifying wild fruits.
