Basil cordial

Method

1. Pour 1 litre water into a large pot. Add the sugar and citric acid and bring to the boil, stirring to make sure all the sugar has dissolved.
2. Smash the basil stalks with the back of a knife, to release the flavour. Place them in a heatproof bowl with the basil leaves, then pour the hot liquid over.
3. Cover the bowl and leave to infuse at room temperature until cool. Pass the mixture through a fine sieve, back into a pot. Bring back to the boil, then pour into sterilised jars and seal.
4. Keep in a cool dark place for up to 4 months. Once opened, store in the fridge and use within 3 weeks.