Elderflower honey substitute

Ingredients for 1 servings:

• 50 elderflower heads, fully bloomed, not washed
• 2 organic lemons, sliced
• 2 lemons, juice
• 2 liters of water
• 2 kg sugar (preserving)

Instructions

Working time approx. 2 hours; Rest period approx. 1 day; Cooking/baking time approx. 2 hours 30 minutes; Total time approx. 1 day 4 hours 30 minutes

tastes wonderful – like honey

Gently shake the umbels and check for insects; do not wash. Cut the flowers from the large stems and place them in a large pot. Add the lemon slices and bring to a boil with 2 liters of water. Boil for 30 minutes. Then cover and let stand on the stovetop for 24 hours. Pour everything through cheesecloth, strain, and bring to a boil with the sugar and lemon juice, stirring. Keep an eye on the pot and stir frequently. Be careful, it may foam over. This is why it’s called “preserving sugar,” which foams less. Let it boil until a honey-like mass forms. This can take a good 2 hours, but maybe longer. Stir frequently. Test for the right consistency by pouring some onto a cold saucer. Wait 3 minutes and test. It should be as thick as honey. Then pour the boiling-hot honey substitute into well-cleaned twist-off jars and seal tightly. If you’re not satisfied with the consistency afterward, you can safely let the mixture simmer a little longer. It should be used just like real honey.