Strawberry cordial is a timeless classic that captures the essence of fresh summer berries in a sweet, concentrated syrup. This delightful drink has roots in traditional British kitchens where preserving the vibrant flavors of seasonal fruit was an art. Making our own strawberry cordial lets us enjoy that burst of natural sweetness all year round.
What makes this recipe special is its simplicity and versatility. We can mix it with sparkling water for a refreshing drink or add it to cocktails and desserts for a fruity twist. Plus, homemade cordial means no artificial flavors or preservatives—just pure strawberry goodness. Let’s dive into a recipe that’s easy to make and sure to become a staple in our kitchen.
Ingredients
To create the perfect Strawberry Cordial, we use simple fresh and high-quality ingredients that highlight the natural sweetness and vibrant flavor of ripe strawberries. Below is the complete list of ingredients arranged for ease of use as we prepare our cordial step-by-step.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation Details |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh strawberries | 2 pounds (about 900g) | Washed, hulled, and quartered |
| Granulated sugar | 2 cups (400g) | Use fine granulated sugar |
| Water | 2 cups (480ml) | Fresh cold water |
| Lemon juice | 1/4 cup (60ml) | Freshly squeezed |
| Lemon zest | From 1 lemon | Finely grated for extra aroma |
Key Notes:
- Fresh strawberries are essential for the best flavor. Choose bright red, ripe berries without bruises.
- Granulated sugar balances the natural tartness while preserving the syrup.
- Lemon juice and zest add brightness and help preserve the cordial’s color and freshness.
Equipment Needed
To craft the perfect Strawberry Cordial, having the right equipment is essential for smooth preparation and ensuring our cordial captures every drop of fresh flavor. Here is a carefully selected list of tools we will use:
- Large Mixing Bowl
For combining and macerating the strawberries with sugar.
- Heavy-Bottomed Saucepan
To gently simmer the strawberry mixture without scorching.
- Fine-Mesh Sieve or Cheesecloth
To strain the cordial, removing seeds and pulp for a silky syrup.
- Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula
Ideal for stirring the mixture evenly during cooking.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
For precise measurement of water, sugar, lemon juice, and zest.
- Citrus Zester
To extract fine lemon zest, enhancing flavor and aroma.
- Glass Bottles or Jars with Tight-Sealing Lids
To store the cordial safely and maintain freshness.
- Funnel
To transfer the cordial into bottles without spilling.
Using these tools will streamline our process and ensure the resulting Strawberry Cordial is smooth, vibrant, and perfectly balanced.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large Mixing Bowl | Macerating strawberries with sugar |
| Heavy-Bottomed Saucepan | Simmering mixture gently |
| Fine-Mesh Sieve / Cheesecloth | Straining seeds and pulp |
| Wooden Spoon / Silicone Spatula | Stirring mixture |
| Measuring Cups & Spoons | Accurate ingredient measurements |
| Citrus Zester | Extracting lemon zest |
| Glass Bottles / Jars | Storing cordial |
| Funnel | Pouring cordial without spills |
Prep Work
Before we begin crafting our delicious Strawberry Cordial, thorough preparation ensures we extract the fullest flavor and achieve the perfect balance. Let’s get everything ready step-by-step.
Washing and Preparing Strawberries
Start by washing 2 pounds of fresh, ripe strawberries under cold running water. This step removes any dirt and impurities while preserving the bright, juicy exterior. After washing, gently pat the strawberries dry with paper towels to avoid excess moisture, which can dilute the cordial.
Next, hull the strawberries by removing the green leafy tops, then quarter each berry. Quartering exposes the fruit, allowing the sugar and lemon juice to penetrate deeply, maximizing flavor extraction during maceration.
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| Washing | Rinse under cold water |
| Drying | Pat dry with paper towels |
| Hulling | Remove green tips |
| Cutting | Quarter each strawberry |
Measuring Sugar and Water
Accuracy is crucial here. Use 2 cups of fine granulated sugar to achieve the ideal sweetness without overpowering the natural strawberry essence. Pair this with 2 cups of fresh cold water to dissolve the sugar completely, forming a smooth syrup base.
We recommend measuring both sugar and water with a standard measuring cup to maintain consistency. Combining sugar with cold water before heating allows for controlled melting and prevents scorching, critical for preserving the cordial’s delicate flavor.
| Ingredient | Measurement | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Sugar | 2 cups (granulated) | Sweetens and balances tartness |
| Water | 2 cups (fresh, cold) | Dissolves sugar; forms syrup |
Making the Strawberry Cordial
Let’s transform our fresh strawberries into a vibrant strawberry cordial by carefully cooking, simmering, and straining the mixture to preserve its natural sweetness and bright flavor.
Cooking the Strawberries and Sugar Mixture
Begin by combining the 2 pounds of quartered strawberries with 2 cups of fine granulated sugar in our large mixing bowl. Stir gently to coat the fruit thoroughly. Allow the mixture to sit for at least 30 minutes so the strawberries release their juices. This maceration softens the berries and kick-starts the flavor infusion.
Next, pour the macerated strawberries, along with their juice, into the heavy-bottomed saucepan. Add 2 cups of fresh cold water, 1/4 cup of freshly squeezed lemon juice, and the zest of one lemon to balance sweetness and brighten the cordial. Stir the ingredients together over medium heat.
Simmering and Reducing
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent scorching. This step concentrates the flavors and thickens the liquid as excess water evaporates.
Watch for the cordial to develop a deep red color and a syrupy consistency. The aroma of fresh strawberries and zesty lemon should fill the kitchen, signaling it’s ready for the next step.
Straining the Mixture
Once the simmering is complete, remove the saucepan from the heat and let it cool slightly for 10 to 15 minutes. This resting time improves clarity and makes straining easier.
Place a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth over a clean bowl or jug. Pour the cordial mixture through it, gently pressing the solids with the back of a spoon to extract every drop of liquid. Avoid forcing pulp through to maintain a smooth texture.
Transfer the strained cordial into sterilized glass bottles or jars using a funnel for convenience. Seal and refrigerate. Our homemade strawberry cordial is now ready to delight — bursting with fresh strawberry flavor, perfectly balanced sweetness, and a zesty finish.
| Step | Time | Key Actions |
|---|---|---|
| Maceration | 30 minutes | Combine strawberries & sugar |
| Cooking | Bring to boil | Add water, lemon juice & zest |
| Simmering | 20-25 minutes | Reduce heat & thicken mixture |
| Cooling before straining | 10-15 minutes | Allow mixture to settle |
| Straining | Until liquid clear | Use fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth |
Bottling and Storing
Proper bottling and storing are essential to maintain the vibrant flavor and freshness of our strawberry cordial. Let’s ensure every drop stays delicious and safe for enjoyment.
Sterilizing Bottles
Sterilizing bottles is crucial to prevent contamination and extend the shelf life of our homemade strawberry cordial. Here’s how to do it effectively:
- Choose glass bottles or jars with airtight lids suitable for liquids.
- Wash the bottles and lids thoroughly with hot, soapy water to remove any residues.
- Boil the bottles and lids in large pot of water for 10 minutes. Ensure bottles are fully submerged.
- Remove carefully using tongs and place on a clean drying rack or paper towels to air dry.
- Avoid touching the inside of bottles or lids after sterilizing to maintain cleanliness.
“Sterilizing is non-negotiable when bottling cordial. It ensures your cordial remains fresh and free from harmful bacteria.”
Storing Tips
Storing our strawberry cordial properly will lock in its rich flavor and natural sweetness. Keep these tips in mind:
| Storage Aspect | Recommended Practice |
|---|---|
| Container | Use airtight sterilized glass bottles or jars |
| Storage Location | Store in a cool dark place away from direct sunlight |
| Refrigeration | Refrigerate after opening to maintain freshness |
| Shelf Life (unopened) | Up to 6 months when stored properly |
| Shelf Life (opened) | Consume within 3 weeks for best flavor and quality |
- Label bottles with the bottling date for easy tracking.
- If you notice changes in color, smell, or texture, discard the cordial immediately.
- For longer storage, freeze portions in ice cube trays and thaw as needed.
Following these Bottling and Storing guidelines helps us enjoy our homemade strawberry cordial at its best, sip after sip.
Serving Suggestions
To fully enjoy our Strawberry Cordial, let’s explore versatile and delightful ways to serve this vibrant syrup. These ideas will complement its rich, sweet, and tangy flavor, making it the star of your drinks and desserts.
Classic Refreshing Drink
- Dilute 1 part strawberry cordial with 4 parts chilled sparkling water.
- Stir gently to blend the flavors.
- Serve over ice with a lemon slice or fresh strawberry garnish for an eye-catching presentation.
- This sparkling beverage balances sweetness with a refreshing zing, perfect for warm days.
Cocktail Mixer
- Use the cordial as a flavorful base in cocktails like Strawberry Gin Fizz or Strawberry Mojito.
- Replace simple syrup with strawberry cordial for enhanced fruitiness.
- Combine:
- 2 oz gin or rum
- 1 oz strawberry cordial
- 0.5 oz fresh lime juice
- Top with soda or tonic water
- Shake or stir with ice, then strain into a glass.
- Garnish with mint or strawberry slices.
Dessert Accent
- Drizzle Strawberry Cordial over ice cream, panna cotta, or cheesecake.
- Use it as a glaze for fresh fruit tarts.
- Mix into yogurt or whipped cream for a fruity twist.
- The rich color and natural sweetness elevate the presentation and flavor depth of desserts.
Culinary Uses
- Incorporate the cordial into salad dressings by mixing with olive oil and vinegar for a strawberry-infused vinaigrette.
- Brush on grilled chicken or pork to add a subtly sweet glaze.
- Stir into homemade cocktails and mocktails to amplify fruity notes.
Serving Suggestions Table
| Serving Style | Ingredients | Preparation Summary | Best Paired With |
|---|---|---|---|
| Classic Drink | 1 part cordial, 4 parts sparkling water | Mix, serve over ice, garnish with lemon/strawberry | Summer refreshment, brunch drinks |
| Cocktail Mixer | 2 oz liquor, 1 oz cordial, lime juice, soda | Shake/stir with ice, strain, garnish with mint/strawberry | Gin, rum drinks, festive occasions |
| Dessert Accent | Cordial drizzle | Pour over ice cream/panna cotta/cheesecake | Creamy desserts, fresh fruit tarts |
| Culinary Uses | Cordial in salad dressing or glaze | Blend or brush as needed | Salads, grilled meats |
Pro Tip: Always adjust the dilution and sweetness to your taste to create the perfect balance with your strawberry cordial.
Using these serving suggestions, we can transform our homemade strawberry cordial into a versatile ingredient that enhances drinks, desserts, and even savory dishes with its natural, vibrant flavor.
Variations and Tips
To elevate our Strawberry Cordial Recipe and tailor it to different tastes and occasions, we can explore various flavor variations and key tips that enhance texture, shelf life, and overall enjoyment.
Flavor Variations
- Herbal Infusions
Add fresh herbs like basil, mint, or thyme during simmering. Use about 5-6 sprigs to infuse subtle herbal notes. Strain them out with the berries for smooth cordial.
- Spiced Cordial
Incorporate warm spices such as cinnamon sticks, cloves, or a small piece of ginger while simmering. This adds depth and makes the cordial fitting for cooler months.
- Mixed Berry Blend
Combine strawberries with raspberries, blackberries, or blueberries—about half and half by weight—to create a rich, multi-fruit flavor profile.
- Vanilla Twist
Add half a vanilla bean scraped or one teaspoon of pure vanilla extract after simmering. This brings out the natural sweetness and softens tartness.
Practical Tips for the Perfect Cordial
| Tip | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Use Ripe Strawberries | Choose bright red berries with no bruises for maximum flavor and natural sweetness. |
| Macerate Thoroughly | Allow the strawberry and sugar mixture to rest for at least 30 minutes to extract juices. |
| Gentle Simmering | Simmer on low heat to avoid caramelizing sugar and preserve vibrant color and fresh taste. |
| Add Lemon Juice & Zest | Balance sweetness and preserve color, preventing oxidation and browning. |
| Strain Carefully | Use a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth for a smooth yet flavorful syrup free from pulp. |
| Sterilize Containers | Always sterilize bottles or jars to extend shelf life and avoid contamination. |
| Store Properly | Keep unopened cordial in a cool, dark place; refrigerate after opening for up to 3 weeks. |
| Freeze for Longevity | Portion leftover cordial in ice cube trays for easy use and longer storage. |
Serving Adjustment Suggestions
We recommend adjusting dilution and sweetness to suit personal preferences. Here’s a handy table for quick reference:
| Serving Style | Cordial to Water Ratio | Additional Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Refreshing Sparkling Drink | 1 part cordial to 4 parts sparkling water | Add ice and a lemon slice for extra freshness |
| Cocktail Mixer | 1 part cordial to 2 parts mixer | Pairs well with gin or rum, garnish with mint |
| Dessert Drizzle | Use undiluted or lightly diluted | Excellent with ice cream or cheesecake toppings |
Quick Quote to Remember
“The perfect strawberry cordial balances vibrant berry flavor with crisp acidity and silky sweetness — a true taste of summer preserved in every bottle.”
By experimenting with these variations and applying our proven tips, we ensure every batch of Strawberry Cordial delights the senses and fits seamlessly into any culinary occasion.
Conclusion
Making strawberry cordial at home is a rewarding way to capture the essence of fresh summer strawberries. With just a handful of simple ingredients and straightforward steps, we can create a versatile syrup that elevates drinks and dishes alike.
By following the tips and techniques shared, our cordial will stay vibrant and flavorful for months, ready to add a burst of natural sweetness whenever we want. Whether enjoyed in a sparkling refresher, a cocktail, or drizzled over desserts, homemade strawberry cordial is sure to become a favorite staple in our kitchen.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is strawberry cordial?
Strawberry cordial is a sweet, concentrated syrup made from fresh strawberries, sugar, and lemon. It captures the pure flavor of summer strawberries and can be diluted with water or used in cocktails and desserts.
What ingredients are needed for homemade strawberry cordial?
You need fresh ripe strawberries, granulated sugar, fresh cold water, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and lemon zest. Using high-quality, ripe strawberries ensures the best flavor.
What equipment do I need to make strawberry cordial?
Essential tools include a large mixing bowl, heavy-bottomed saucepan, fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth, citrus zester, measuring cups, sterilized glass bottles or jars, and a funnel.
How do I prepare strawberries for cordial?
Wash strawberries under cold water, dry them, hull by removing the green tops, and quarter them to maximize juice extraction.
What is the basic process for making strawberry cordial?
Macerate strawberries with sugar, simmer with water, lemon juice, and zest, then strain the mixture. Store the strained cordial in sterilized glass bottles when cooled.
How should strawberry cordial be stored?
Store unopened cordial in a cool, dark place for up to 6 months. After opening, refrigerate and consume within 3 weeks to maintain freshness.
Can strawberry cordial be used beyond drinks?
Yes, it’s great in cocktails, drizzled over desserts, used as a salad dressing ingredient, or as a glaze for grilled meats.
What are some flavor variations for strawberry cordial?
Try infusing herbs like basil or mint, adding warm spices like cinnamon, blending with other berries, or adding a vanilla twist for unique flavors.
How can I ensure my strawberry cordial is sweet but balanced?
Use ripe strawberries and adjust sugar and lemon quantities as needed. The lemon juice also helps balance sweetness and preserve color.
Can I freeze strawberry cordial for longer storage?
Yes, freezing portions of your cordial can extend its shelf life while preserving flavor. Use airtight containers and thaw before use.