Cornelian cherry syrup is a vibrant, flavorful, and highly nutritious drink that not only quenches thirst but also offers impressive health benefits. Rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, this syrup can help boost immunity, support heart health, and reduce inflammation. It’s easy to prepare at home using natural ingredients, making it a safe and wholesome choice. In this Sunich Magazine article, we’ll walk you through the complete step-by-step recipe and explore its origins, variations, and health properties.
Origins of Cornelian Cherry
Cornelian cherry is native to temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere and has been used for thousands of years. Indigenous peoples of North America consumed it fresh or dried, incorporating it into food, beverages, and traditional remedies. Today, it’s popular worldwide and used in juices, syrups, jams, desserts, and sauces.
Ingredients (Yields ~1 Liter of Syrup)
|
Ingredient |
Amount |
Notes |
|
Fresh or frozen cornelian cherries |
500 g |
Frozen cherries can be used directly |
|
Sugar |
400 g |
Adjust to taste |
|
Water |
4 cups |
For extracting juice |
|
Fresh lemon juice |
1 tbsp |
Enhances color and balances flavor |
Step-by-Step Preparation
- Prepare the Fruit
Wash fresh cherries thoroughly and remove any stems or leaves. Frozen cherries can be used without rinsing.
- Initial Cooking
Place the cherries in a pot and add water. Simmer over medium heat for 15–20 minutes until the fruit softens and skins begin to split, releasing their juice.
- Strain the Juice
Pour the mixture through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth to separate the pulp. Press gently with a spoon to extract all the juice.
- Make the Syrup
Return the extracted juice to the pot and add sugar. Stir over low heat until fully dissolved. Simmer gently for 10–15 minutes until the syrup thickens slightly.
- Add Lemon Juice
Stir in the fresh lemon juice at the end. It helps stabilize the red color and adds a pleasant tang.
- Cool and Store
Remove from heat and let the syrup cool completely. Pour into sterilized glass bottles and refrigerate.
Variations
- Sugar-Free Version: Use natural sweeteners like honey, stevia, or maple syrup. Note that the flavor and texture may vary.
- Cornelian Cherry & Pomegranate: Add ½ cup of fresh pomegranate juice at the final stage for a richer color and antioxidant boost.
- Cornelian Cherry & Ginger: Add a few slices of fresh ginger during the initial cooking for a spicy, anti-inflammatory twist. Remove before straining.
Health Benefits
- Rich in Antioxidants: Helps fight free radicals and prevent premature cellular aging.
- Urinary Tract Health: Proanthocyanidins prevent bacteria from adhering to urinary tract walls, reducing infection risk.
- Immune Support: High vitamin C content strengthens the body’s defenses.
- Heart Health: May lower LDL (bad cholesterol) and raise HDL (good cholesterol).
- Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Regular consumption may reduce inflammation and support immune function.
Nutritional Value (Per 100 ml of Undiluted Syrup)
|
Nutrient |
Approximate Amount |
|
Calories |
100 kcal |
|
Carbohydrates |
25 g |
|
Sugars |
23 g |
|
Fiber |
0.5 g |
|
Vitamin C |
5% of daily needs |
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use dried cornelian cherries?
Yes, but soak them in water for a few hours to soften before use.
- Why isn’t my syrup thick enough?
It may need more simmering time. Syrup thickens slightly as it cools.
- Is this syrup suitable for children?
Yes, it’s beneficial for children due to its immune-boosting properties. Adjust sugar levels based on age.
- How do I keep the syrup fresh?
Store in sterilized bottles in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for several weeks.
Summary
Homemade cornelian cherry syrup is a natural, flavorful, and health-promoting drink that’s easy to prepare. It supports hydration, heart health, immunity, and urinary tract function, thanks to its high antioxidant content. With a few simple steps and proper storage, you can enjoy this vibrant syrup with your family all season long.
