If you know anyone in the Southern States of Australia, then you’ll know it’s been crazy hot here! We’ve had temperatures over 40°C (105°F) every day this week!! But rather than complain about how hot it is, I thought I’d make up some fancy cordial to enjoy. The drink is a lovely milky white colour and is nice and refreshing.
This syrup is delicious topped with sparkling or still water. For an adult version, add a squeeze of lime, some mint leaves and your favourite clear spirit (vodka, gin or rum).
Almond, Rose and Cardamom Cordial
makes about 1.5 cups
1 cup water
1 cup sugar
5 tbsp ground almonds
8 green cardamom pods
1 tsp rose water
a few drops almond extract
Chilled sparkling mineral water, soda water or still water to serve
Crack the cardamom pods open by squashing them with the end of a rolling pin. You don’t need to powder them, just break them open. Add the water and sugar to a small saucepan along with the almond meal and cardamom pods. Bring to the boil and reduce the heat, then simmer for about 5 mins. Leave to cool,
Add the rosewater and 2 drops of almond extract. Taste and add more rosewater or almond extract if you desire.
Optional: If you don’t like the idea of the bits of almond meal in your drink, then strain through a sieve. You can push on the mix to get the most through, but some bits of ground almond may get through. I don’t actually mind them in my drink.
To serve, add a tablespoon or two to a glass and top with chilled water. I don’t like it too sweet so only use a little bit.
What’s your favourite drink for keeping cool?
Ros says
Oh that sounds divine! And I have all those ingredients in my pantry…
A little bit country says
Mmmm, I can almost taste it! Look delicious. Your temps are unbelievable, crazy. I couldn’t imagine that kind of heat. Stay cool! xo
Toni-Maree says
Oh yummy Abby, this looks delicious.
abby @ thingsforboys says
Thankfully, the temperature has dropped a bit, so it’s much more bearable now. We were in Wanaka about 5 years ago and everyone was talking about the heatwave (I think it was high 20s). That would make a nice change! 🙂
Pam @Threading My Way says
I love your coat, Abby!!! The colours work so well and doesn’t look like it was once a blanket. Not sure about matching pants, though 🙂
Angela says
This coat is the opposite of ugly. It is great and you have totally inspired me. Thank you!
abby @ thingsforboys says
I’m pretty certain matching pants would be awful, but boy would they be funny!
abby @ thingsforboys says
Thanks Angela!
abby @ thingsforboys says
thanks Toni-Maree!
michele says
I didn’t realize you were in Australia Abby. Shows how much I know… I hope the cordial is keeping you nice and cool in those crazy temps. Wow! We heard about your fires and temperatures on the radio news this evening. Stay safe okay?
abby @ thingsforboys says
haha! I don’t mention it a lot, so unless you notice my odd spelling of some words, it’s probably not obvious. The weather has calmed down a bit, thankfully!
Kirsten Smith says
Hi! Found you via Cooker and Looker’s Australia Day Link Up. Your ANZAC biscuit recipe looks delicious. Definitely going to make these with the kids over the weekend!
abby @ thingsforboys says
thanks for stopping by Kirsten!
LydiaCLee says
do love the Anzac biscuits!
Robyn (Mrs D) says
Oh these have me drooling!! I’ve made sugar free ones this year as I’ve decided to give up sugar but my god sometimes I wish I hadn’t ( must stay strong, must stay strong)
abby @ thingsforboys says
Good luck Robyn! I honestly don’t think I would last 3 days without sugar! Hubby and I once gave up chocolate for 2 weeks during Lent and that was so hard, but we still ate cookies most days.
Caroline Raj says
Found you from Cooker and a Looker Blog Party. Didn’t have much success with my ANZAC biscuit yesterday but I think I’ve got a few extra tips from you (thank you) to make my next batch more of a success! Happy Australia Day
abby @ thingsforboys says
Happy Australia Day! Good luck with your next batch. The good thing about biscuits is even when they’re bad they’re still good.