Elderberry sea moss is a combination of sea moss gel and elderberry syrup, both of which are known for their potential health benefits. Elderberries are rich in antioxidants and can be used to make a syrup that may help support the immune system. Sea moss, also known as Irish moss, is a type of seaweed that is often used to make a gel known for its nutritional content. Here’s how to make elderberry sea moss:
Ingredients:
For Elderberry Syrup:
- 1 cup dried elderberries
- 4 cups water
- 1 cup honey or maple syrup (for a vegan option)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger (optional)
- 1 teaspoon cloves (optional)
For Sea Moss Gel:
- 14 cup dried sea moss
- 1-2 cups water (for soaking)
- 1-2 cups water (for blending)
Instructions:
Making Elderberry Syrup:
- Rinse the Elderberries:
- Rinse the dried elderberries thoroughly under cold running water.
- Boil the Elderberries:
- In a large saucepan, combine the rinsed elderberries and 4 cups of water.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the liquid has reduced by half.
- Strain the Syrup:
- Use a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth to strain the elderberry mixture into a clean bowl or jar. Press down on the elderberries to extract as much liquid as possible.
- Add Sweetener and Spices:
- While the syrup is still warm but not boiling, stir in the honey or maple syrup and any optional spices (cinnamon, ginger, cloves). Mix until well combined.
- Store the Syrup:
- Allow the elderberry syrup to cool completely, then transfer it to a clean, airtight container or glass jar. Store it in the refrigerator for up to a few months.
Making Sea Moss Gel:
- Rinse the Sea Moss:
- Rinse the dried sea moss thoroughly under cold running water to remove any debris or salt.
- Soak the Sea Moss:
- Place the rinsed sea moss in a bowl and cover it with 1-2 cups of water. Let it soak for 4-12 hours or until it has expanded and become soft.
- Blend the Sea Moss:
- Drain the soaked sea moss and place it in a blender.
- Add 1-2 cups of water (use less for a thicker gel, more for a thinner gel).
- Blend until you achieve a smooth, gel-like consistency. You may need to stop and scrape down the sides of the blender to ensure it blends evenly.
- Combine Elderberry Syrup and Sea Moss Gel:
- Once you have both the elderberry syrup and sea moss gel ready, you can combine them. Use approximately equal parts of each, depending on your preference for sweetness and thickness. You can start with a 1:1 ratio and adjust to taste.
- Store the Elderberry Sea Moss:
- Transfer the combined elderberry sea moss to a clean, airtight container or jar.
- Store it in the refrigerator for up to a few weeks.
Enjoy a spoonful of elderberry sea moss as a daily supplement or add it to smoothies, drinks, or other recipes for an extra nutritional boost. Remember to consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating new supplements into your diet, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or concerns.
