Wood Sorrel Simple Syrup Recipe

A recipe for wood sorrel simple syrup using the lemony goodness of foraged wood sorrel from my backyard.

Hey there, backyard foraging fam! Gah! I have been loving learning all about the amazing weeds growing in my yard. Today, we’re going to make a simple syrup out of this clover look-alike weed that’s been taking over your lawn. Who needs fancy ingredients when you have a backyard full of free edible plants? So, grab your sorrel and let’s make something fun!

Wood sorrel has a tangy, slightly sour taste with a hint of lemon or citrus. Some people describe it as tasting like a milder version of a Granny Smith apple. The taste of wood sorrel varies depending on the variety and the environment in which it grows. Overall, it is a refreshing and unique flavor that can add a pleasant sourness to many different dishes such as salads, soups, and beverages!

What is Wood Sorrel?

Wood sorrel (Oxalis family) is a plant that grows in many parts of the world, including North America, Europe, and Asia. It is a woodland plant that typically grows in moist, shady areas such as forests, meadows, and grasslands. Wood sorrel is often found growing in acidic soils and is a common sight in many gardens, lawns, and parks.

To identify wood sorrel, look for its trifoliate (three-parted) leaves that resemble clover, and its delicate yellow, white or pink flowers that bloom in the spring and summer.

If you aren’t sure whether or not you are looking at sorrel in your yard, check out this video on Identifying Wood Sorrel.

Medicinal Properties of Wood Sorrel

1. Digestive Health: Wood sorrel contains high levels of oxalic acid, which may help stimulate the digestive system and improve digestion, treating stomach cramps, diarrhea, and other digestive issues.
2. Anti-inflammatory properties: Wood sorrel contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that may help reduce inflammation in the body. This makes it useful in treating conditions such as arthritis and gout.
3. Antioxidant properties: The plant is rich in flavonoids and vitamin C, which are powerful antioxidants that help protect the body from damage caused by free radicals.
4. Anti-cancer properties: Some studies suggest that wood sorrel may have anti-cancer properties due to the presence of certain compounds such as quercetin, kaempferol, and myricetin.
5. Heart health: The flavonoids and other antioxidants in wood sorrel may help lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels, reducing the risk of heart disease. But then you add alcohol and… this one is a wash.

While wood sorrel has many potential health benefits, it should not be used as a substitute for medical treatment. Always talk to your healthcare provider before using any herbal remedies.

Wood Sorrel Simple Syrup Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 cup fresh sorrel leaves and stems
• 1 cup of sugar
• 1 cup of water

Supplies

• Small Saucepan
• Stirring spoon
• Fine-mesh strainer
• Glass jar or bottle for storing the syrup

Optional supplies include a cheesecloth or coffee filter for straining the syrup if the fine-mesh strainer is not fine enough, and a funnel for pouring the syrup into the storage jar or bottle.

If you plan to use the syrup in cocktails or other drinks, you may also want to have a jigger or measuring cup to measure the amount of syrup you add to each drink.

Instructions:

1.Rinse the wood sorrel leaves and stems thoroughly and pat dry with a clean towel.

2. Roughly chop (if desired- I did not) the wood sorrel and place it in a medium saucepan.

3. Add the sugar and water to the saucepan and stir to combine.

4. Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a simmer.

5. Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has completely dissolved and the wood sorrel has infused the syrup with its flavor.

6. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the syrup cool to room temperature.

7. Strain the syrup through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container, discarding the wood sorrel solids.

8. Store the wood sorrel simple syrup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one month.

You can use wood sorrel simple syrup to sweeten cocktails, iced tea, lemonade, or any other beverage you like. Enjoy!

Ways to Use Your Wood Sorrel Simple Syrup

1. Cocktails: Wood sorrel simple syrup can be used as a sweetener in cocktails such as margaritas, mojitos, and gin fizzes. It pairs well with citrus flavors and herbaceous spirits like gin and vodka.
2. Lemonade or Iced Tea: Use wood sorrel simple syrup to sweeten homemade lemonade or iced tea for a tangy twist on a classic drink.
3. Salad Dressing: Wood sorrel simple syrup can be used as an ingredient in homemade salad dressings to add a sweet and sour flavor. It pairs well with bitter greens like arugula and radicchio.
4. Marinade or Glaze: Use wood sorrel simple syrup as a marinade or glaze for meats and vegetables. It works well with poultry, pork, and seafood.
5. Desserts: Use wood sorrel simple syrup to sweeten desserts like fruit salad, sorbets, and popsicles. It pairs well with summer fruits like strawberries and peaches.

These are just a few ideas, but you can get creative and use wood sorrel simple syrup in any recipe that calls for a sweetener with a tangy flavor.

FAQs

In conclusion, making a wood sorrel simple syrup is an easy and fun way to elevate your drinks and dishes to the next level! Whether you use it as a sweetener in cocktails or a glaze for meats and vegetables, the unique lemony taste of wood sorrel will add a delicious twist to your creations. So the next time you find wood sorrel in your backyard, don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try!

Interested in cocktails? Check out these other blog posts!

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