Linden Street

We have two Linden trees and I have always wanted to preserve the fragrant flowers.



This is the recipe used to make a syrup:

Simple syrup:

2 cups sugar
2 cups water

Collect and wash plenty of flowers, probably 6 cups worth. Dissolve the sugar over medium heat and add the flowers while the syrup is still hot. Let it steep for an entire day. Next strain it through a coffee filter. Cool completely. Refrigerate. Add this to drinks and desserts.



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Here is another recipe I have since found that would be good to try:

http://www.celtnet.org.uk/recipes/miscellaneous/fetch-recipe.php?rid=misc-linden-flower-cordial

Some of what the site said:

Linden Flower Cordial

Linden Flower Cordial is a classic British flower cordial. The recipe is based on the traditional Elderflower cordial, but substitutes linden (common lime) flowers for elderflowers. The full recipe is presented here and I hope you enjoy this classic British version of Linden Flower Cordial.

Ingredients:

25 bunches of linden flowers (about 6 flowers per bunch)
1.8kg granulated or caster sugar
1.2l water
2 unwaxed lemons
75g citric acid

Check the linden flowers to make sure that there aren't any clinging insects then place them in a large bowl. Meanwhile add the sugar and water to a large pan and bring to the boil. While the sugar syrup is heating prepare the lemons by paring the zest in wide strips (add this to the linden flowers). Cut the ends from the lemons and and slice them thinly, adding these slices to the linden flowers.

When all the sugar has dissolved pour the hot syrup over the flowers and stir-in the citric acid. Keep stirring for a few minutes to make sure that all the linden flowers are covered in syrup then cover with a clean cloth and leave for 24 hours to infuse.

The following day sieve the cordial through a strainer lined with muslin and pour into thoroughly-cleaned glass or plastic bottles. Screw the lids on tightly and store in a cool cupboard. To serve dilute with sparkling water (or sparkling wine) to taste and pour over ice cubes in a glass. The cordial also works well in sorbets and ice cream and can be used in a vinaigrette or even as a marinade for chicken breasts.

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Research on the blooms also revealed that they are quite useful for medicinal purposes. Feeling stressed; have a cordial or tea to relieve it, as Linden flowers are a sedative and treat nervous palpitations and lowers blood pressure. Tension can be relieved with a soak in Linden flower water. Linden is also a cold and flu treatment for bringing down a fever and helps to clear sinuses.

Here are some links for more uses and information about Linden flowers:

http://www.herbs2000.com/herbs/herbs_linden.htm#linden_uses

http://www.mountainroseherbs.com/learn/linden.php

The title references Linden Street in downtown Fort Collins. I am sure other places have a Linden Street, as well.