Vegetable glycerine has a very low glycemic index of just 3. In comparison, sucrose (table sugar) has a medium glycemic index of 65.
By using glycerine instead of alcohol or sugar, we create a low-glycemic index tonic that’s both medicinal and delicious.
The addition of warming spices and tangy cider vinegar results in a complex, flavourful shrub that can be used as a daily immune booster or a refreshing cordial.
This recipe transforms the humble elderberry into a powerful ally for winter wellness, offering a tasty alternative to conventional elderberry syrups.
I buy my vegetable glycerine from here, https://www.vegetableglycerine.co.uk.
Ingredients
- 1200g of fresh elderberries that have been destalked
- 1000ml water
- 4 cinnamon sticks
- 6 star anise
- 30 cardamom pods
- 10 whole cloves
- 600ml vegetable glycerine
- 200ml cider vinegar
Method
Pour water over elderberries. Bring to a boil and simmer for 15 minutes with the lid on. Leave over night and in the morning, strain. Now simmer again for 30 minutes with the lid off. I ended up with 400 ml. Allow to cool. Add 600 ml pure glycerine and 200 ml of cider vinegar. Shake well and store in a dark place. As a daily winter immune boosting tonic, take 10ml. For a delicious cordial, use 20 ml and top up with sparkling water.