Here’s one more thing that you can use your Instant Pot for: elderberry syrup. This sweet elixir is a powerful tool in any medicine cabinet and it tastes pretty nice too.
I have been drying elderberries from my two shrubs for four years now, since they have begun producing heavily, so I am armed with plenty of supplies. If you don’t have a source for them, dried elderberries are available online and from specialty stores. Online is probably going to be your best bet. If you are lucky enough to live by an herb shop, they will carry these as well (unless it is during the flu season, as they always run out at all the stores near me; stock up in advance).
Elderberry, or Sambucis Nigra, is naturally loaded with vitamins A, B, and C, and can help to stimulate the body’s immune system. I make elderberry syrup a couple times a year and keep it handy in the fridge to enjoy pretty regularly. With all the flus that go around each year, this is a powerful tool to help keep your immune system in good shape.
The nice thing about using the Instant Pot is there is no mess and splashing as the juice boils, and you don’t have to watch it or do a thing.
Lemon, orange, ginger, and cloves are my go-to flavor enhancers. Cinnamon sticks are nice too, but I didn’t use them here.
Once it cools you mix in the honey to sweeten it, and store it in the refrigerator. For general health, adults can take 1 tablespoon daily and children can take 1/2 teaspoon to 1 teaspoon daily. If you are actively sick, adults can take 1 tablespoon every 2 to 4 hours, or kids can take 1/2 teaspoon every 2 to 4 hours.
