RECIPE: Sour cherry syrup

Sour cherries (Prunus cerasus) are rich in antioxidant anthocyanins, beta carotene, vitamins and potassium, which all have health-boosting properties.

They also contain useful amounts of hormones such as melatonin, tryptophan and serotonin which help regulate sleep/wake cycles and mood.

Long-distance runners take cherry juice concentrates before and after exercising, as the anti-­inflammatory properties of cherries aid quicker muscle recovery and pain release. It takes approximately 200 cherries [660g/1lb 50z] produce 400ml [14fl oz] of cherry juice. This recipe makes approx 600ml [1 pint] of syrup.

BENEFITS

Sour cherries can speed muscle recovery after exercise and help regulate sleep as well as preserving a youthful appearance and improving liver function.

INGREDIENTS

• 400ml [14fl oz] sour cherry juice, freshly pressed
• 250g [9oz] sugar

METHOD

1 Pour the juice into a saucepan, add the sugar and heat gently. Stir constantly until the sugar is dissolved, then simmer for 20 minutes on a low heat.

2 Strain the syrup and bottle in a sterilised glass bottle with a tight-fitting lid. Keep refrigerated and use within a few weeks.

3 Drink diluted with cold or hot mineral water.

 

 

• Taken from Neal’s Yard Remedies Cook, Brew and Blend Your Own Herbs (Dorling Kindersley). To purchase a copy or get more details see here.