Homemade lemon cordial – Freska lemonada
Homemade lemon cordial is easy and quick to make. My children love to assist in the preparation and enjoy drinking it even more. My late father-in-law had an abundance of lemons and we were so fortunate to have them readily available, so much so that I’d juice kilos at a time and then freeze the lemon juice for future use.
Sweet memories
My first experience making lemon cordial, freska lemonada, at home was around the age of 8-10 with my late mother. I was given the task of stirring the mixture, which felt like an important responsibility at the time, all while excitedly waiting for the lemonade to be ready so I could finally get to have some.
Ingredients needed
To make the homemade lemon cordial you only need two ingredients! Lemon juice and caster sugar. Lemons are the star ingredient in homemade lemon cordial, offering a bright, tangy flavour that refreshes the palate. The best time to make lemon cordial is during the peak lemon season, which typically runs from late winter to early spring. This is when lemons are at their juiciest and most flavourful, ensuring your cordial is bursting with zest.
For every cup of lemon juice she would use one cup caster sugar. However the ratio changed slightly depending on how citrus the lemons were and also personal taste. For a more tangy result she would use one cup of lemon juice to three quarter cup caster sugar.
Sterilising the bottle and storage
Sterilizing glass bottles for lemon cordial is essential to ensure safety and preserve flavour. Start by thoroughly cleaning the bottles with hot, soapy water to remove any residue. Rinse well and then boil the bottles in a large pot of water for 10 minutes. Allow the bottles to air dry completely before filling them with your delicious lemon cordial.
Once the lemon cordial is prepared, pour the cordial into sterilized glass bottles, leaving some space at the top. Seal tightly with a cap or cork to prevent air exposure. Store the bottles in the refrigerator for up to three months or freeze the lemon cordial on the day it is made in freezer bags or ice cube trays.
Using up the whole lemon
Lemons are a versatile fruit, and using the whole lemon—zest, juice, and pulp—maximizes flavour and minimizes waste. Here are some creative ways to incorporate every part of the lemon into your cooking and baking.
1. Zest: The zest contains essential oils that provide a vibrant citrus flavour. Use a microplane to grate the outer yellow skin and add it to baked goods like cakes, cookies, and muffins. It also enhances savory dishes, dressings, and marinades.
2. Juice: Fresh lemon juice is a staple in many recipes. Use it to brighten up salads, seafood, and sauces. It’s also perfect for homemade lemonade or cocktails. For a health boost, add lemon juice to water for a refreshing drink. Store any lemon juice in the freezer by pouring it in ice cube trays.
3. Pulp: Don’t discard the pulp! It can be added to smoothies for extra fibre or used in salad dressings for a tangy kick. You can also incorporate it into sauces or jams for added texture and flavour.
4. Lemon Peel: Beyond zesting, you can candy lemon peels for a sweet treat or use them to infuse oils and vinegars.
By utilizing the entire lemon, you not only enhance your dishes but also embrace sustainability in your kitchen.
Homemade lemon cordial is not just a refreshing drink; it’s also a versatile ingredient for cocktails, desserts, or even as a drizzle over vanilla ice-cream. With its bright, zesty flavour, this cordial is sure to become a staple in your kitchen, bringing a taste of summer to your table all year round. Enjoy the simple pleasure of crafting your own beverages and savour the delightful taste of homemade lemon cordial!
