Elderflower kvass
Elderflower kvass is a real discovery for those who appreciate natural and authentic drinks. It is prepared on wild yeast that is naturally present in the pollen of elderflower blossoms. As a result, the drink comes out slightly sparkling, without any additional yeast. The aroma of elderflower and the light tartness of lemon create an incredible combination that resembles light homemade champagne. The drink refreshes in the heat, can be served as an alternative to lemonades, allowing control over sugar and acidity levels. This drink not only quenches thirst but also becomes a decoration for any table. It can surprise both your loved ones and guests as few have tried such an interesting combination of aromas and tastes.
Part of the sugar can be replaced with honey by adding it to the cooled drink after primary straining. Instead of citric acid, use fresh lemon juice and zest or add a few slices of lime. For a light spicy note, add a piece of fresh ginger or a few cardamom seeds to the kvass.
To make the kvass soft and without unnecessary bitterness, use only fresh, fully bloomed elderflower clusters. Do not wash the flowers with water, just shake off insects and dust to preserve natural yeast. Ferment the kvass at a stable temperature of 18–25°C, avoiding direct sunlight and sudden changes.
Collect elderflower away from roads and industrial areas, in dry weather with open blossoms. It's better to use filtered or spring water, without a strong chlorine smell. Sugar can be regular white or cane for a light caramel note.
Be sure to cover the kvass container with gauze to protect against insects and not block air access. During fermentation, stir the kvass 1–2 times a day for better aroma and uniform sugar consumption. Fill bottles to a maximum of three-quarters of their volume, leaving space for gas, controlling pressure.
Ingredients
Devaytis Non-carbonated Mineral Water 5l
10 l
Diamant White Crystalline Sugar 1kg
1000-1200 g
Lemon
2 pcs
Mint 50g
a few sprigs
Preparation steps
01
Preparing elderflower clusters — Collect fresh elderflower clusters 12-15 pcs, carefully shake off insects and dust. Time: 15 min. Guide: Flowers are visually clean.
02
Preparing lemons — Wash and slice lemons, remove seeds. Time: 5 min. Guide: Lemons are cut into even pieces.
03
Placing ingredients in the container — Place elderflower clusters on the bottom of the pot, add sugar and lemon. Time: 5 min. Guide: All ingredients are distributed in the container.
04
Pouring water and dissolving sugar — Pour water over the ingredients and mix. Time: 10 min. Guide: Sugar is dissolved.
05
Beginning fermentation under gauze — Cover the container with gauze, leave in a warm place for fermentation. Time: 2 min. Guide: Container is covered, placed in an appropriate location.
06
Daily stirring during fermentation — Stir the kvass 1–2 times a day for 4–5 days. Time: 10 min. Guide: Foam and aroma without sulfur smell.
07
Tip Store elderflower kvass in a cool, dark place and check the pressure in bottles: if they are very inflated, release the gas.
Where to order ingredients
Select the required ingredients in one of the stores
.png)
.png)
.png)
.png)
.png)
.png)
.png)
.png)
.png)
.png)
.png)
.png)
.png)
.png)
.png)
.png)
.png)
.png)
.png)
.png)
.png)
.png)
.png)
