As the seasons change, our bodies often feel the effects. The common cold and flu can spread quickly, leaving us feeling miserable and searching for relief. But did you know that one simple ingredient has been touted as a natural immunity booster? Enter elderberry! With its rich history of use in traditional medicine, elderberry is gaining popularity as a go-to remedy for fighting off illness. And the best part? It’s incredibly versatile, making it easy to incorporate into your daily routine through a variety of delicious recipes.
From sweet treats like jam and muffins, to savory sauces and dressings, there are countless ways to harness the power of elderberry. In this article, we’ll explore 20 mouthwatering elderberry recipes that will have you feeling like you’re giving your immune system a big hug. So grab your apron and let’s get started!
Elderberry Syrup for Cold Relief
Soothe your cold symptoms with this easy-to-make elderberry syrup, rich in antioxidants and flavonoids that help alleviate congestion and coughs. This natural remedy is perfect for the whole family to use.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried elderberries (Sambucus nigra)
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 teaspoon citric acid
Instructions:
1. Combine elderberries and water in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
2. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean glass bowl, pressing on solids to extract liquid.
3. In a small saucepan, combine honey, apple cider vinegar, and citric acid. Heat over low until honey dissolves.
4. Combine the elderberry liquid with the honey mixture. Stir well to combine.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (simmering) + 5 minutes (heating honey mixture)
Use: Take 1-2 tablespoons of the syrup as needed, up to 3 times a day. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 6 months.
Homemade Elderberry Jam
This sweet and tangy jam is a delicious way to preserve the flavor of elderberries, perfect for topping toast, yogurt, or using as a filling. With its unique berry flavor and deep purple color, this homemade elderberry jam is sure to be a hit.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup elderberries (fresh or dried)
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 package pectin (powdered or liquid)
Instructions:
1. Combine elderberries and water in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
2. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a large bowl, pressing on solids to extract as much juice as possible. Discard solids.
3. In a separate saucepan, combine sugar, lemon juice, and pectin. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly.
4. Add the elderberry juice to the sugar mixture and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until jam thickens.
5. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before transferring to sterilized jars.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Elderberry and Honey Tea
A soothing and sweet tea recipe that combines the anti-inflammatory properties of elderberries with the natural sweetness of honey.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried elderberries
– 2 cups boiling water
– 2 tbsp pure honey
– 1 lemon slice (optional)
Instructions:
1. Combine dried elderberries and boiling water in a large pot. Let it steep for 10-15 minutes, or until the liquid has reduced slightly.
2. Strain the tea into a separate container using a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the elderberry solids.
3. Add honey to taste, stirring until dissolved.
4. If desired, add a lemon slice to enhance the flavor.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional lemon slices if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Elderberry Smoothie Bowl
Boost your immune system with this delicious and nutritious Elderberry Smoothie Bowl! This refreshing treat combines the antioxidant-rich properties of elderberries with creamy yogurt and sweet honey, topped with crunchy granola and fresh berries.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen elderberries
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Ice cubes (as needed)
– Granola and fresh berries for topping
Instructions:
1. Combine elderberries, yogurt, honey, almond milk, and vanilla extract in a blender.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, adding ice cubes if desired to thicken the mixture.
3. Pour the smoothie into a bowl.
4. Top with granola and fresh berries.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Elderberry Chia Pudding
This elderberry chia pudding recipe combines the health benefits of chia seeds, the antioxidant-rich properties of elderberry, and a touch of sweetness from honey. Perfect as a snack or dessert, it’s an excellent way to boost your immune system and support overall well-being.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup chia seeds
– 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1/4 cup elderberry syrup (or 2 tablespoons dried elderberries reconstituted in 2 tablespoons hot water)
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together chia seeds and almond milk. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes to allow the chia seeds to absorb.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together elderberry syrup (or reconstituted dried elderberries), honey, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the chia mixture and stir until fully incorporated.
4. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the pudding to set.
5. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None
Elderberry Pancakes with Maple Syrup
Start your day off right with these tender and flavorful elderberry pancakes, infused with the sweetness of maple syrup. This recipe combines the natural beauty of elderberries with a hint of classic pancake goodness.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 1/4 cup elderberry jam or puree
– Maple syrup, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and elderberry jam or puree.
3. Combine wet and dry ingredients; stir until just combined (do not overmix).
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the skillet.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry. Flip and cook an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
6. Serve warm with a drizzle of maple syrup.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Elderberry Infused Vodka
Create a unique and flavorful vodka infused with the sweet and tangy flavors of elderberries. This recipe is perfect for those looking to add a twist to their cocktail game.
Ingredients:
– 1 liter vodka (at least 35% ABV)
– 1 cup dried elderberries
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 cups water
Instructions:
1. Combine the vodka and dried elderberries in a clean glass jar or container with a tight-fitting lid.
2. In a separate pot, combine the sugar and water to create a simple syrup. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring until the sugar is dissolved.
3. Pour the simple syrup over the vodka and elderberry mixture.
4. Stir well to combine and ensure all ingredients are incorporated.
5. Seal the container and store it in a cool, dark place for at least 2 weeks or up to 6 months to allow the flavors to infuse.
6. After the infusion period, strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into another clean container. Discard the solids.
Cooking Time: 0 hours (infusion time)
Elderberry and Apple Crumble
This dessert combines the natural sweetness of apples with the tartness of elderberries, topped with a crunchy oat crumble. Perfect for a cozy evening or as a gift for friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups mixed apple varieties (Granny Smith, Fuji, Gala), peeled and sliced
– 1 cup elderberry jam or preserves
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced apples and elderberry jam. Toss until well coated.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
4. Add the melted butter to the oat mixture and stir until crumbly.
5. Pour the apple mixture into a 9×9-inch baking dish. Top with the crumble mixture.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the apples are tender and the topping is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Elderberry Lemonade
Brighten up your summer with this refreshing twist on classic lemonade, infused with the sweet and tangy flavors of elderberries. This recipe is perfect for hot days when you need a cool and revitalizing drink.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh or frozen elderberries
– 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 4 cups water
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– Ice cubes
– Sliced lemons and sprigs of rosemary for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the elderberries and combine them with 2 cups of water in a medium saucepan.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the berries have broken down and the mixture has reduced slightly.
3. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a large pitcher, pressing on the solids to extract as much liquid as possible.
4. Add lemon juice and sugar to the pitcher. Stir until sugar is dissolved.
5. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
6. Serve over ice and garnish with sliced lemons and sprigs of rosemary, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 3-4 hours (including chilling time)
Elderberry BBQ Sauce
This Elderberry BBQ Sauce recipe combines the natural sweetness of elderberries with the tanginess of traditional BBQ sauce, creating a unique and delicious flavor profile perfect for slathering on ribs, chicken, or pork.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup ketchup
– 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons elderberry syrup (or 1 tablespoon dried elderberries with 1 tablespoon water)
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine ketchup, apple cider vinegar, water, honey, and elderberry syrup (or reconstituted dried elderberries). Whisk until smooth.
2. Add smoked paprika and garlic powder; whisk to combine.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-low heat.
4. Reduce heat to low and let sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes or until thickened slightly.
5. Remove from heat and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Elderberry Dark Chocolate Bark
Transform your taste buds with this luxurious treat featuring the sweetness of elderberries and the richness of dark chocolate.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1/2 cup (120g) dried elderberries
– 1 tablespoon (15ml) honey
– 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
Instructions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
3. Stir in the dried elderberries and honey until well combined.
4. Pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet.
5. Sprinkle sea salt over the top.
6. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until set.
Cooking Time: None! This bark is no-bake, making it perfect for a quick treat.
Elderberry Oatmeal Cookies
These soft-baked cookies combine the natural sweetness of elderberries with the warmth of rolled oats, perfect for a snack or dessert. With only 10 ingredients, this recipe is easy to make and customize to your taste.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/2 cup elderberry jam or preserves
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together oats, flour, sugar, and baking soda.
3. In a separate bowl, cream together butter and sugars until smooth. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until combined. Fold in elderberry jam.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden brown. Let cool on wire rack.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Elderberry Mulled Wine
Warm Up with Elderberry Mulled Wine
This sweet and tangy mulled wine is infused with the natural flavors of elderberries, perfect for a cozy night in during the winter months. With its hint of spice and fruitiness, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle of red wine (Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon work well)
– 1/4 cup elderberry syrup
– 2 cinnamon sticks
– 6 cloves
– 1 orange, sliced
– 1 lemon, sliced
– Honey or sugar to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the red wine and elderberry syrup.
2. Add the cinnamon sticks and cloves, stirring well to combine.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Reduce heat to low and let it warm for 20-25 minutes, or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Remove from heat and add the sliced orange and lemon.
6. Strain into cups or mugs and sweeten with honey or sugar to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Elderberry and Ginger Kombucha
Revitalize your gut health with this refreshing fermented tea recipe, infused with the natural anti-inflammatory properties of elderberry and spicy warmth of ginger.
Ingredients:
– 1 SCOBY (Symbiotic Culture of Bacteria and Yeast)
– 1 gallon water
– 1 cup sugar
– 8-10 black tea bags
– 1/4 cup fresh or dried elderberries
– 2 inches fresh ginger, peeled and sliced
– Starter tea (from a previous batch or store-bought kombucha)
Instructions:
1. Bring the water to a boil, then add sugar and stir until dissolved.
2. Remove from heat and add tea bags. Let steep for 5-7 minutes, then remove the tea bags.
3. Add elderberries and ginger to the sweetened tea. Let it cool to room temperature.
4. Once cooled, transfer the mixture to a glass container with a wide mouth. Place the SCOBY in the liquid and cover the container with a breathable cloth or paper towel.
5. Store in a warm, dark place (75°F – 85°F) for 7-14 days, depending on desired level of fermentation.
6. Once the kombucha has reached your desired tanginess, remove the SCOBY and starter tea from the liquid.
7. Strain the liquid through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into glass bottles with tight-fitting lids.
Cooking Time: 1-2 weeks (depending on fermentation level)
Elderberry Popsicles
Beat the heat with these healthy and delicious Elderberry Popsicles! Made with antioxidant-rich elderberries, these pops are perfect for hot summer days.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup elderberry juice
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon lemon zest
– 1/2 cup water
– Popsicle sticks and molds
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together the elderberry juice, Greek yogurt, and honey until smooth.
2. Stir in the lemon zest and water.
3. Pour the mixture into popsicle molds or ice cube trays.
4. Insert popsicle sticks and freeze for at least 4 hours or overnight.
5. Once frozen, remove from molds and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (no cooking required)
Elderberry Glazed Chicken
Elderberry Glazed Chicken: A sweet and tangy twist on traditional chicken glazes, this recipe combines the antioxidant-rich properties of elderberries with a hint of spice and smokiness.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup elderberry jam
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together elderberry jam, honey, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow baking dish and brush the glaze evenly over both sides of each breast.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Elderberry Salad Dressing
This tangy and fruity dressing is perfect for topping your favorite greens or using as a marinade for grilled meats. The elderberry adds a unique flavor profile that’s both sweet and savory.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons elderberry syrup (or 1 tablespoon dried elderberry powder)
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard until well combined.
2. Slowly add in the olive oil while continuously whisking until the dressing is smooth.
3. Add in the elderberry syrup (or dried powder) and whisk until fully incorporated.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: None required! This dressing is best served immediately or stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Elderberry and Pear Tart
A sweet and tangy tart that combines the flavors of elderberries and pears, perfect for a warm summer evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 2 cups mixed berries (elderberries, blueberries, blackberries)
– 1 ripe pear, peeled and sliced
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the mixed berries, honey, lemon juice, sugar, and salt.
4. Arrange the pear slices on one half of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Spoon the elderberry mixture over the pears, leaving a small border around the edges.
6. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling to form a triangle or a rectangle.
7. Brush the edges with a little water and press gently to seal.
8. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Elderberry Energy Balls
These bite-sized energy balls are packed with the benefits of elderberry, a natural source of antioxidants and vitamins. Perfect for a quick morning boost or pre-workout snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup dried elderberries
– 1/2 cup dates, pitted
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 tablespoon chia seeds
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine oats, elderberries, and dates. Process until well combined.
2. Add honey, chia seeds, vanilla extract, and salt. Blend until a sticky dough forms.
3. Roll the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
5. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Cooking Time: None (no cooking required)
Elderberry Sourdough Bread
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of elderberries with the tanginess of sourdough to create a unique and delicious bread. Perfect for serving alongside soups, salads, or as a snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water
– 1/2 cup active sourdough starter (100% hydration)
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon elderberry syrup (or 1/4 cup dried elderberries)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and active sourdough starter. Mix until fully incorporated.
2. Add flour, salt, and elderberry syrup/dried elderberries to the mixture. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rest at room temperature for 4-6 hours or overnight.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Shape the dough into a round or oblong loaf and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to boost your immune system with these delicious elderberry recipes! From sweet treats like homemade jam and dark chocolate bark, to savory dishes like glazed chicken and BBQ sauce, there’s something for everyone. Try making a soothing elderberry syrup or tea to ease cold symptoms, or add some elderberry-infused vodka to your favorite cocktails. With 20 recipes in total, you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to incorporating this powerful antioxidant-rich fruit into your daily routine.
