Cordials

• 2 cups caster sugar
• 2 cups cold water
• 1 tbs fresh lemon juice
• 500g strawberries, hulled, washed, halved
• 2 whole green cardamom pods, bruised
• Chilled water or soda water, to serve

Combine the sugar, water and lemon juice in a large saucepan over low heat. Cook, stirring, for 2 minutes or until the sugar dissolves. Increase heat to high and simmer for 5 minutes or until mixture thickens slightly. Reduce heat to medium-low. Add the strawberries and cardamom pods. Simmer, stirring occasionally, for 20 minutes. Set aside for 30 minutes or until completely cool. Strain strawberry pulp, gently pressing with the back of a spoon, through a fine sieve into a clean bottle.
To serve, place 2 tbs of cordial in each serving glass, top with chilled water or soda water and serve immediately.