Simple Lemon Cordial Recipe

May 20
08:10

2024

Catalan Gardener

Catalan Gardener

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Lemon cordial is a delightful and refreshing beverage, perfect for hot summer days. This easy-to-make recipe uses no artificial preservatives, allowing you to enjoy a healthy, zesty drink year-round. By canning the cordial, you can make the most of a bountiful lemon harvest and ensure a steady supply of this delicious drink.

Ingredients

  • Lemons: Freshly squeezed lemon juice is the star of this recipe.
  • Sugar: Essential for balancing the tartness of the lemons.

Method

  1. Juice the Lemons: Extract the juice from as many lemons as you have available.
  2. Measure the Juice: Pour the juice into a measuring jug to determine the amount of sugar needed.
  3. Calculate Sugar: For every liter of lemon juice,Simple Lemon Cordial Recipe Articles you will need 1.2 kilograms of sugar.
  4. Combine and Heat: In a large pan, combine the lemon juice and sugar. Heat gently while stirring continuously until the sugar is completely dissolved.

The cordial is now ready to use. Simply dilute with water and add ice to taste. For long-term storage, follow the canning instructions below.

Canning the Cordial

  1. Select Containers: Choose bottles or jars with screw-top lids. Bottles are aesthetically pleasing, but small jars may be more accessible.
  2. Sterilize Containers: Wash the bottles or jars and immerse them in boiling water for 15 minutes.
  3. Fill Containers: Drain the bottles and fill them with warm cordial, leaving a 1/2 inch space at the top for expansion.
  4. Seal Containers: Screw the caps on tightly, then loosen by half a turn to allow for expansion.
  5. Prepare for Boiling: Place a clean cloth in a large pan and arrange the bottles inside, using additional cloths to prevent them from knocking against each other.
  6. Boil: Fill the pan with warm water, ensuring it reaches at least 3/4 of the way up the bottles. Slowly heat the pan until the water is boiling, then boil for 30 minutes.
  7. Seal and Store: Remove the bottles, tighten the caps, and store them in a cool, dry, and dark place. Once opened, store the cordial in the refrigerator.

Interesting Facts and Stats

  • Lemon Production: According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), global lemon production reached approximately 19.4 million metric tons in 2020. Source.
  • Health Benefits: Lemons are rich in Vitamin C, providing about 53 mg per 100 grams, which is 88% of the daily recommended intake. Source.
  • Preservation: Properly canned lemon cordial can last up to a year when stored in optimal conditions.

Additional Resources

For more information on canning and preserving, visit A Self Sufficient Life. You can also explore various recipes for pickles and preserves.

Conclusion

Making your own lemon cordial is a simple and rewarding process. Not only do you get to enjoy a refreshing drink, but you also make the most of your lemon harvest. By following the canning steps, you can ensure a year-round supply of this delightful beverage. Happy preserving!