Apple Cider reductions have been around for centuries. For some, the reductions were turned into alcohol. For others, they used the reductions as vinegars. This time of year, apple cider vinegars are used in all sorts of homemade remedies. But when you cook down the apple cider yourself, and add dried or fresh berries, you have the option of making a syrup that is perfect for cold morning pancakes or for adding to your favorite herbal teas.
Dried Hawthorn berries, blueberries, and bilberries (which you can find online) offer an extra immune boost. Dark colored berries contain anthocyanin, antioxidants, and Vitamin C which support both the immune and cardiovascular systems. Just remember to use sweet apple cider not hard cider. They are two very different things! Because homemade vinegars and syrups were made by the early American colonists, Sarah Munro, (my PhD historian and heroine in book 2 of the Deadly Force series, ONE DARK WISH), has added Hawthorn Berry Syrup to her collection of DIY herbal recipes.
Sarah Munro’s Hawthorn Berry Syrup
Ingredients:
Directions:
In a heavy saucepan, stir together all of the berries and the apple cider. Bring to boil over medium heat, stirring constantly.
Lower the heat to a simmer and cook until the liquid is reduced by half. Stir occasionally as the liquid cooks down.
Place a strainer over a glass measuring cup. Once the liquid is cooked down, strain the liquid to strain out the berries.
Return the strained liquid to the saucepan. Bring the heat to medium-low while stirring constantly. Once it simmers, lower the heat and reduce the liquid by half again. Stir occasionally and watch the liquid, making sure it thickens but doesn’t burn.
If you want a thicker syrup, you can reduce it even more. Set the saucepan on a towel on the counter to cool down. Once the liquid is cooled, pour it into a quart-sized glass jar with a two-piece tight-fitting lid. Label the jar with the ingredients and the date. This will keep in the refrigerator for up to three months.
IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER ABOUT WILD PLANTS, FORAGING, AND MAKING HERBAL REMEDIES:
I am not a medical professional and nothing written on this blog is medical advice. None of my statements have been evaluated by the FDA (I am legally required to give you this disclaimer).
It is important to do your due diligence before foraging, harvesting, and/or consuming any type of medicinal plant.
- If you are taking any medications, talk to your doctor about any potential drug interactions.
- If you are allergic to anything, make sure whatever you are foraging is not in the same family. Example: While dandelions are typically considered safe, those who are allergic to ragweed, latex, daisies, or any other plants in the same or similar families, may not be able to consume dandelion.
Always research potential side effects, dosage recommendations, and how to properly prepare and consume each medicinal plant.
Always make sure you are foraging what you believe to be. Fully prepare and study the anatomy before harvesting wild plants.
Always make sure your kitchen/work area is clean and that all materials are sterilized.
Do not forage plants from areas that have been sprayed within the past 2 years at the very least.
I am not legally or morally responsible for the health of any of my readers. Please do your own research!
