Where: All of Sweden
When: August, September
What: Harvesting elderberries
As summer fades and autumn takes over, the elderberry bush produces its deep purple berries. The elder, or 'fläder', is not just any plant; it’s a remarkable and versatile gem that has been cherished for centuries.
BLOSSOMS AND BERRIES
One of the things that makes the elder so special is its dual purpose. In spring, the elder blesses us with delicate, aromatic white or pink flowers. These blossoms are perfect for making syrups and teas. The berries that follow in late summer are a treasure trove of nutrients, ideal for jams and, of course, elderberry syrup.
HOW TO HARVEST ELDERBERRIES
When it comes to harvesting, it’s important to do so carefully to ensure the plant thrives for years to come. Always leave some behind for wildlife and the health of the bush. This way, the elder can continue to grow and provide for both humans and animals. Be sure to pick only the ripe berries, which are deep purple, almost black. Avoid any that are still green or red.
WHERE AND WHEN TO FIND ELDERBERRIES IN SWEDEN
Finding elderberry bushes in Sweden isn’t difficult if you know where to look. These plants prefer sunny spots and can often be found along roadsides, in woodlands, parks, and even in your own garden if you're lucky. To make your search easier, there’s a map available that shows the locations of fruit trees across Sweden, including elderberries. You’ll find the link below this post. The best time to pick the berries is from late August to September, when they’re fully ripe and deep purple. Be cautious, though, as there are different types of elders. The dwarf elder, which grows no taller than a meter, is toxic and should not be harvested. Only the black elder with white or pink flowers produces safe-to-eat berries.
PREPARING AND COOKING ELDERBERRIES SAFELY
Once you've gathered your berries, rinse them thoroughly to remove dirt and insects. Before cooking, strip the berries from their stems—this can be a bit tedious, but it's essential as only the berries are used, and the stems can be bitter and toxic. Make sure to cook the berries well to eliminate any harmful substances. Raw elderberries contain cyanogenic glycosides, which can cause nausea or more severe symptoms if ingested, but these toxins break down when heated, making the berries safe and delicious. Although this part of the process might not be the most enjoyable, you'll be rewarded with a yummy syrup.
RECIPE: HOMEMADE ELDERBERRY SYRUP
Making your own elderberry syrup is quite simple. To start, bring one kilogram of elderberries to a boil with 100 ml of water, one kilogram of sugar, and the juice of three lemons. Let the mixture simmer gently for about 15 minutes. Once cooked, pour it into a sieve lined with cheesecloth—or, as I prefer, use a reusable veggie bag—to strain out the solids. While the syrup drains, sterilize a few glass bottles. Pour the hot syrup into the bottles. If the syrup has cooled too much, reheat it slightly before bottling. Allow the bottles to cool upside down. Properly sealed, the syrup will keep for up to four months, and once opened, store it in the fridge.
HEALTH BENEFITS OF ELDERBERRY SYRUP
Elderberry syrup isn’t just tasty; it’s also packed with health benefits. Rich in antioxidants and vitamins, it’s known for boosting the immune system, particularly during cold and flu season. We use about two tablespoons in hot water for tea or stir it into some yoghurt. It’s a smart way to prepare for the cold winters here in Sweden. For more detailed information on the health benefits and risks of elderberry, I’ve included a link below this post. I recommend reading it before you start using elderberries.
ELDER IN FOLKORE
Historically, elders were planted in gardens to ward off evil spirits, a practice rooted in European folklore. While we may not need them for protection anymore, the elder is still very much loved and can be found in many gardens and parks—not just for its beauty, but also for the bounty it provides each season.
HELPFUL LINKS:
Nutritional information elderberries: fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/food-details/171727/nutrients
Health benefits and risks elderberries:
Map with all fruit trees in Sweden:
My blog about allemansrätten:
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