One of my most favourite pastimes is enjoying a little sip of something yummy on my front porch in the company of my family + friends. I love making herb-infused libations like this one. Anise Hyssop Cordial is one of our great memories from last summer. This little yummy delight was a hit and I will make it again this year! (there's none left!!)
This lovely fragrant herb offers digestive support and can alleviate uncomfortable gas and bloating. We can use Anise Hyssop in a delicious tea to help to relieve congestion and to relieve bouts of harsh excessive coughing. With anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory attributes, Anise Hyssop (tincture or tea) combines well with licorice root to soothe bronchitis and help to clear up respiratory infections. As a gentle cardiac herb, Anise Hyssop is a wonderful addition to a supportive formula to strengthen a weak heart.
Check out this post for more about therapeutic properties + projects with Anise Hyssop !
You know me.. I always need to share about the healing aspects of a plant to inspire you to make all kinds of projects happen! Here's my current favourite from many years of playing with cordials. I hope you'll make and enjoy it! There's lots of room for experimentation.. Just have FUN with it!
Carol’s Anise Hyssop Cordial Recipe :
“Deep n Dark”
Carol's Anise Hyssop Cordial
Ingredients
Instructions
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Put all the ingredients in a glass jar
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Add the vodka
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Take a chopstick to poke about and ensure air bubbles escape
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Place lid on jar.
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Label and date! (important!!)
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Put away in a cool area, away from sunlight.
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It's a great idea to shake the concoction a few times during the week.
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Wait excitedly to check it out!
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It can be ready in a couple of weeks but I always wait 1 month.
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Strain. Measure the remaining liquid.
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Add equal amount simple syrup.
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Mix well. Transfer to another glass container with lid.
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I store mine in a glass jar with label and also in a special decanter for serving.
Recipe Notes
NOTE: I made a larger amount but this is my recipe. I usually make a 'this size' version and if a success, I just double or triple the recipe!
How to Make a Simple Syrup:
It's simple.. sorry.. but it is!
If you can boil water.. you can make this!
Measure one cup of water and one cup of sugar. It's 1:1 ratio, so if you want to make a larger batch, just double or triple the amount of sugar and water.
In a medium saucepan combine the sugar and water.
Bring to a boil, stirring, until the sugar has dissolved.
Allow to cool.
Use in your project or pour into a clean sterile glass jar.
Label.
Store in the fridge for 1 month maximum.
Note: It's easy to make this syrup as thick or as thin as you prefer. If you want a thin syrup, follow as written above, and turn it off after it starts to boil. If you want to create a thicker syrup, just cook it a few minutes longer, lowering the heat a little bit after it starts to boil.
I made a thin syrup last time but in the spirit of experimentation, will possibly make a little thicker syrup for the next batch.. just for fun!
Have fun. Experiment!
Here's to delicious herbalicious goodness + to our health --
xo Carol
Lindsay
Hello! I noticed in your photo you've covered your jar with a breathable cloth. Is that necessary or can I use something that seals completely. Thanks! Can't wait to taste this in a month.
Carol Little R.H.
It's totally fine to have a closed lid + I often start with the cloth + add the lid afterwards..
Taryn Schraad
I made this with dried hyssop leaves & flowers from last year's crop. It turned out amazing! I'm going to muddle it with some fresh blueberries, basil with tonic water & ice as a refreshing summer cocktail.
Carol Little R.H.
Taryn -- that sounds so delicious + very creative!!
Annie
Hello, since water was used to make a simple syrup would this need to be stored in the refrigerator or dark shelf?
Carol Little
Hello Annie.
Great question.If we are adding an amount of simple syrup to an alcohol preparation, typically as long as there is enough alcohol to act as a preservative, it should not need to be refrigerated but if you'd like to keep it for a few months, that is a fine idea. I tend to make this and gift small jars which will all be consumed within a short time, but it's true that for longer safe storage, it can't hurt to keep it cool! I hope you make and enjoy this yummy concoction!!'
Cheryl
Do you use fresh or dry leaves for this cordial recipe? I'd love to try it.
Carol Little
Hello Cheryl. I've only used fresh leaves for this recipe. Dried may also work but I can't say from personal experience.
It's cherry season now.. I am hoping to make this soon!! Please tell me how you like it!!!
Green good wishes, Carol
Andrea
Just to be sure, do you mean dried prunes?
Carol Little
Hello Andrea, Yes.
Prunes without pits can make it easier..later..
M.
The recipe looks quite good. I'm wondering if brandy would be too strong a flavor. I was thinking of using that instead of vodka. As you've made this with vodka, any thoughts? Thank you for this recipe and any insight you can give. Have a lovely day.
Carol Little
Brandy is a super choice. I don't use it often.. I don't like the taste but if you do.. Try it out!!