Blackcurrant cordial is a delicious and versatile drink that can be enjoyed on its own or used as a mixer in cocktails and mocktails. Making your own blackcurrant cordial is not only fun and easy, but it also allows you to control the ingredients and customize the flavor to your liking. In this article, we will guide you through the process of making your own blackcurrant cordial, from selecting the best blackcurrants to bottling the finished product. So, put on your apron and get ready to embark on a tasty adventure in the world of homemade cordials!

First things first, you will need to gather the necessary ingredients and equipment. For this recipe, you will need fresh blackcurrants (or frozen if fresh ones are not available), granulated sugar, water, and lemon juice. You will also need a large saucepan, a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth, and glass bottles or jars for storing the cordial.

Once you have all your ingredients and equipment ready, it’s time to start preparing the blackcurrants. Give the blackcurrants a good rinse under cold water and remove any stems or debris. Then, place the blackcurrants in a large saucepan and add just enough water to cover them. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer the blackcurrants for about 10 minutes, until they have softened and released their juices.

Next, it’s time to strain the blackcurrants to extract the juice. You can do this by pressing the softened blackcurrants through a fine-mesh sieve or by tying them up in a piece of cheesecloth and squeezing out the juice. Make sure to press the blackcurrants well to extract as much juice as possible.

Once you have obtained the blackcurrant juice, it’s time to sweeten and flavor it. In the same saucepan, combine the blackcurrant juice, sugar, and lemon juice. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the cordial has thickened slightly.

After the cordial has cooked and thickened, allow it to cool before bottling. Once it has reached room temperature, carefully pour the cordial into clean, sterilized glass bottles or jars. Make sure to leave some headspace at the top of the bottles to allow for expansion. Seal the bottles tightly and store them in the refrigerator.

Congratulations, you have successfully made your own blackcurrant cordial! To enjoy your homemade creation, simply dilute the cordial with still or sparkling water to taste. You can also use it as a syrup in cocktails and mocktails, or drizzle it over desserts for a burst of fruity flavor.

Making your own blackcurrant cordial is not only a fun and rewarding experience, but it also allows you to enjoy a delicious and natural drink without any artificial additives or preservatives. So, the next time you come across some fresh blackcurrants, don’t hesitate to try making your own cordial at home. Your taste buds will thank you! Cheers to the delicious adventures of homemade cordials!