Purple Cabbage & Blueberry Cordial (Concentrated Drink)
Purple Cabbage & Blueberry Cordial (Concentrated Drink)
Yield: About 1.5 liters (6 cups)
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients
- ½ medium red (purple) cabbage (about 400 g), chopped
- 2 cups (300 g) fresh or frozen blueberries
- 1.5 liters (6 cups) water
- 1½ cups (300 g) granulated sugar or 1 cup honey
- Juice of 2 lemons (about ¼ cup)
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest (optional)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- 1 cinnamon stick (optional)
- 2–3 slices fresh ginger (optional)
Equipment
- Large cooking pot
- Fine mesh strainer
- Cheesecloth (optional)
- Large bowl
- Funnel
- Sterilized glass bottles
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Ingredients
Wash the cabbage thoroughly.
Remove the tough core.
Cut into thin strips.
Wash the blueberries.
Step 2: Cook
Add to a large pot:
- Water
- Purple cabbage
- Blueberries
- Ginger
- Cinnamon
Bring to a boil.
Reduce heat.
Simmer for 25–30 minutes.
The cabbage should become soft and the blueberries should burst.
Step 3: Strain
Pour everything through a fine sieve.
Press gently with a spoon.
For a crystal-clear drink, strain again through cheesecloth.
Discard the solids.
Step 4: Sweeten
Return the liquid to the pot.
Add sugar or honey.
Heat gently.
Stir until completely dissolved.
Do not boil after adding honey.
Step 5: Add Lemon
Remove from heat.
Add:
- Lemon juice
- Lemon zest
- Vanilla
Watch the color change from bluish-purple to bright ruby-purple. This is a natural reaction of the cabbage pigments to acidity.
Step 6: Bottle
Cool for 15 minutes.
Pour into sterilized bottles.
Seal tightly.
Step 7: Chill
Refrigerate overnight for the best flavor.
How to Serve
Mix:
- 1 part cordial
- 2–3 parts cold water
Or use:
- Sparkling water
- Ice cubes
- Lemon slices
- Fresh mint
Storage
Refrigerator:
- 7–10 days
Freezer:
- Up to 3 months
If processed using proper canning methods in sterilized bottles, it may last several months unopened.
Nutrition (Approximate)
Per 250 ml prepared drink:
- Calories: 80–120
- Carbohydrates: 20–28 g
- Sugar: 18–25 g
- Protein: 1 g
- Fat: 0 g
- Fiber: <1 g
- Vitamin C: Good source
- Vitamin K: Moderate source
- Anthocyanins: High
- Potassium: Moderate
Values vary depending on the amount of sweetener used.
Health Benefits
Purple Cabbage
- Rich in vitamin C
- High in vitamin K
- Contains antioxidants (anthocyanins)
- Supports heart health
- May help reduce inflammation
Blueberries
- Excellent source of antioxidants
- May support brain health
- Good for eye health
- Rich in vitamin C
- Contains manganese and fiber
Lemon
- Rich in vitamin C
- Adds natural acidity
- Brightens flavor
- Helps preserve the drink
Tips
- Use ripe blueberries for better sweetness.
- Don’t overcook; prolonged boiling can reduce vitamin C.
- Add fresh mint after chilling for a refreshing flavor.
- Reduce sugar if you prefer a less sweet drink.
- For a festive version, mix with sparkling water.
Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)
Q: Why does the drink change color after adding lemon?
A: Purple cabbage contains anthocyanins, natural pigments that change color depending on pH. Lemon juice makes the drink more acidic, turning it from bluish-purple to a bright reddish-purple.
Q: Can I use frozen blueberries?
A: Yes. Frozen blueberries work just as well as fresh ones.
Q: Can I replace blueberries?
A: Yes. Blackberries, blackcurrants, grapes, or mixed berries are good substitutes.
Q: Can I use honey instead of sugar?
A: Yes. Add honey after removing the liquid from a full boil to better preserve its flavor and natural properties.
Q: Is this drink suitable for children?
A: Yes, as a non-alcoholic beverage. You can reduce the sugar if desired.
Q: Can I make it sugar-free?
A: Yes. Omit the sugar and sweeten individual servings with a sugar substitute if preferred. Note that sugar also helps with preservation.
Q: Why is my drink bitter?
A: Simmering the cabbage for too long or using the tough core can add bitterness. Use only the leaves and avoid overcooking.
Q: Can I drink it hot?
A: Yes. It can be served warm in cooler weather or chilled over ice in warmer weather.
Q: Is this a medicinal drink?
A: It is a nutritious fruit-and-vegetable beverage with antioxidants and vitamins, but it should not be considered a treatment or cure for any medical condition.
Q: Can I ferment this into wine?
