Sweet concoction made from Hawthorn berries, known for its potential heart health benefits.
In the heart of late summer and early autumn, the thorny shrubs or trees that grow hawthorn berries bear their small, red fruits. These berries, full of tiny seeds, are a natural source of flavonoids, antioxidants, and vitamin C, and they can be harvested in the wild or purchased from herbal supply shops.
Making hawthorn syrup is a simple process that yields a smooth, subtly sweet liquid, perfect for both culinary enjoyment and traditional heart health applications. Here's a step-by-step guide:
- Prepare the berries: Thoroughly wash fresh hawthorn berries, removing stems and leaves. If using dried berries, rinsing is not necessary.
- Simmer the berries: Place the berries in a pot with about 3 cups of water, then bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes or until the berries soften and the liquid reduces by half, forming a concentrated infusion.
- Strain the liquid: Thoroughly strain the liquid through a fine mesh lined with muslin or cheesecloth to remove seeds and pulp.
- Sweeten the syrup: For every 500 ml of strained liquid, add 250 grams of sugar or honey. Gently heat and stir the mixture until the sugar dissolves, then boil for about 3 minutes to thicken the syrup slightly.
- Store the syrup: Bottle the syrup and store it in the refrigerator. If stored properly, hawthorn syrup can last up to 6 months. Once opened, it should be refrigerated for up to a few weeks.
Hawthorn syrup can be used in a variety of ways. It makes a warming, comforting beverage when added to hot drinks such as tea or a hot toddy. For a tangy twist, consider adding apple cider vinegar. In the kitchen, hawthorn syrup can be used as a dessert topping over ice cream, yogurt, or fresh fruit. It pairs well with sparkling water, cocktails, or desserts, adding a heart-friendly, tangy sweetness.
Traditionally, hawthorn has been known for supporting cardiovascular health by helping regulate blood pressure and improving heart function. However, it's essential to consult healthcare professionals before using hawthorn syrup for medicinal purposes.
The ingredients for hawthorn syrup are 4 cups of fresh hawthorn berries, 1 1/4 cups of sugar (or an equal amount of honey), and 3 cups of water. The equipment needed includes a fine mesh strainer, cheesecloth, a saucepan, and sterilized bottles or jars.
Hawthorn syrup is an excellent addition to cocktails, stirred into gin, whiskey, or rum, or mixed with sparkling water. With its rich, heart-friendly flavour, hawthorn syrup is a versatile ingredient that adds a touch of natural sweetness to a variety of dishes and drinks.
- Hawthorn syrup, besides its traditional heart health applications, can be incorporated into diverse global cuisines, enhancing the flavor profile of various dishes and drinks.
- In addition to winemaking and cooking, herbal remedies also utilize hawthorn berries, demonstrating their versatility in home-and-garden and sustainable-living practices.
- The health benefits of hawthorn syrup extend beyond its cardiovascular properties, as it can contribute to maintaining a healthy lifestyle by promoting the consumption of natural, antioxidant-rich food-and-drink options.
- Hawthorn berries, not only vital in the emergence of herbal remedies, but also play a significant role in gardening, due to their high antioxidant and vitamin C content.
- Adopting a lifestyle that promotes healthy cooking can include the use of natural ingredients like hawthorn berries, ultimately leading to the creation of delectable and beneficial dishes, fostering better overall health and well-being.
