What Are Dried Black Elderberries?
Black elderberries are the small, dark purple fruits of the European elder (Sambucus nigra), a shrub or small tree that grows across Europe, North Africa and western Asia. In early summer the elder is covered in flat clusters of creamy elderflowers, and by late summer these turn into heavy clusters of glossy black-purple berries.
The berries are picked when fully ripe, removed from their stems and dried whole. Dried elderberries are small, wrinkled and almost black, and they release a deep purple color as soon as they meet water.
Elderberries have been part of European home kitchens for centuries. Today they are best known as the main ingredient in homemade elderberry syrup, simmered with water, honey and spices such as cinnamon, cloves and ginger. They are also used for elderberry tea, gummies, jam, pies, cordials and even wine, and their juice makes a beautiful natural purple dye. Dried berries are easy to keep in the pantry and can be used all year.
Elderberries should always be cooked before eating. Simmering them is part of every traditional recipe and gives the best flavor and color.
Our dried black elderberries contain only Sambucus nigra berries. They are sold by weight, from small packs to bulk.
How to Use Dried Black Elderberries
- Elderberry syrup: Simmer 2/3 cup (about 100 g) of dried berries in 3 1/2 cups (about 800 ml) of water with a cinnamon stick, a few cloves and fresh ginger for 40 to 45 minutes, until reduced by half. Strain, let cool slightly and stir in 1 cup of honey. Keep in the fridge.
- Elderberry tea: Simmer 1 tablespoon of berries in 1 1/2 cups (12 fl oz / 350 ml) of water for 15 minutes, then strain.
- Baking and jam: Rehydrate the berries in hot water and cook them into jam, pie fillings or muffins.
Safety
Always cook elderberries before use. Do not eat raw berries, leaves, stems or seeds. If you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication or have a medical condition, consult a qualified healthcare professional before use. Keep out of reach of children.
Read our full guide: How to make elderberry syrup: our easy recipe
Frequently Asked Questions
Do elderberries need to be cooked?
Yes. Raw or undercooked elderberries can cause nausea. Always simmer them for at least 15 minutes before eating or drinking.
Is this black elderberry (Sambucus nigra)?
Yes. These are dried berries of the European black elder, Sambucus nigra.
How many dried elderberries do I need for syrup?
About 2/3 cup (100 g) of dried berries makes roughly 2 cups (500 ml) of syrup.
What do elderberries taste like?
They are tart, fruity and slightly earthy, similar to a mix of blackcurrant and blackberry.
How should I store dried elderberries?
Keep them in an airtight container in a cool, dry and dark place. Store homemade syrup in the fridge.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.