I always use citric acid in my elderflower cordial, but can no longer get it from my local chemist (they're not allowed to sell it any more because it's bought by drug users). Can you suggest a supplier or, failing that, a substitute? Idon't want to increase theamount of lemon juice, because some lemons are just not sharp enough.
The elderflower season is on us again, and by the time this appears in print it will be well under way in the south and just beginning in the north, which probably explains why I have had several queries about it (see the next question, too). First off, it is possible to get hold of citric acid. If you live in the Midlands, try one of the many Wilkinson stores in the area. Otherwise, shops that sell home-brew kits should stock it, too. And failing either of those, you can get the stuff online from the-home-brew-shop.co.uk or from Amazon.
I love elderflower cordial, andlast year I tried to make some. It tasted lovely, but after three weeks it went fizzy and alcoholic. This may not be a problem for others, but Idon't drink alcohol. Do you have afoolproof recipe?
There is enough yeast inthe flowers of the elderflower to cause it to ferment, go fizzy and become (very slightly) alcoholic. The solution is to freeze your cordial in small batches, and defrost as and when you need it.
Years ago, I used to have a yoghurt culture made up of little white globules. The thing is: how can I get hold of this culture to start making soda bread again? Can I develop it from ordinary yoghurt?
Yes, you can, provided the yoghurt you use as a starter is natural "live". Or you can buy a culture, possibly ata healthfood shop or online (try cheeseyogurtessentials.com or ascott-dairy.co.uk).
I bought a large bottle oflocal cider that, on opening, had more in common with cider vinegar than a nice drink – it's quite sharp and very acidic. Am Iright in thinking there's no harm inusing it in asalad dressing, say?
There should be no harm in using it. Indeed, vinegar has antiseptic qualities. And anyway, stray wild yeasts have been dropping in unannounced on alcoholic beverages ever since man started making them.
I can find unwaxed lemons but have never seen unwaxed oranges. How do I remove the wax if I'm going to use the zest in cooking? And are organic oranges unwaxed?
Organic oranges are unwaxed, so you can use them, but should you be able to find only waxed oranges, the received wisdom is that the wax, which is applied for cosmetic reasons and to protect the fruit in its travels from tree to shelf, can be washed off with a brush and water. Others, such as Joanna Blythman, aren't quite so convinced. She advises using organic oranges, too.
