Kosmatice Recipe - Prepare a Fragrant Dessert Full of Spring

Kosmatice - A Forgotten Treasure from Czech Nature That Tastes Great in Every Way

When the elderberry blooms in spring and early summer, most people think of its intoxicating scent wafting through gardens, forests, and country roads. A lesser-known but all the more delicious part of this shrub is its flowers – the basis of a traditional delicacy called kosmatice. This name, originating from the word “kosmatý” (hairy), refers to the hairy edges of elderflower, which are fried in batter as a spring variation of pancakes. Although in some regions they are also referred to as “kosmatce” or “kosmatky,” they share one thing – they are a delicious, fragrant, and natural dish that deserves a comeback in Czech kitchens.

It's Not Just About Fried Flowers – Elderberry Offers a World of Flavors

Elderberry (Sambucus nigra) is not only a beautiful shrub but also rich in health-beneficial substances. Its flowers contain essential oils, flavonoids, and tannins, which have anti-inflammatory and diaphoretic effects. In folk medicine, they are used against colds, fevers, or rhinitis. The tradition of collecting elderflowers dates back a long time and is associated with respect for nature and the cycle of seasons. At a time when more and more people are interested in sustainable food and a return to natural recipes, kosmatice is gaining popularity again.

One of the most common ways to use elderflowers is, of course, the one we know from childhood – fried kosmatice, reminiscent of sweet pancakes with a distinct herbal taste. But the great thing is that the flowers can also be prepared sweet, and they also make an excellent homemade syrup full of aromatic tones.

Recipe for Kosmatice - A Classic That Never Disappoints

The classic recipe for kosmatice is simple and does not require any special ingredients. The base is a thin batter similar to pancake batter, into which the entire elderflower is dipped with the stem and then fried in a pan until golden.

Ingredients:

• 10–15 freshly picked elderflowers (preferably in the morning in dry weather)
• 150 g plain flour
• 250 ml milk
• 1 egg
• A pinch of salt
• Fat for frying (oil or clarified butter)

Instructions:

1. Gently shake the flowers to remove insects (do not wash, to keep the pollen that adds flavor).
2. In a bowl, mix flour, milk, egg, and salt into a smooth batter.
3. Heat a pan with a bit of fat.
4. Dip each flower into the batter and place it flower-side down on the pan. Fry until golden on both sides.
5. Serve while still warm – for example, with a herbal dip, sour cream, or just on their own.

Kosmatice tastes great on their own, but they can also be flavored according to your imagination. Some add a drop of rum to the batter, others grated lemon peel or vanilla. There is even a sweet version that will delight all dessert enthusiasts.

Sweet Kosmatice - A Floral Dessert Full of Spring

If you want to turn kosmatice into a dessert, a slight modification of the recipe is enough. Add some sugar, lemon peel, and possibly cinnamon to the batter. After frying, you can sprinkle the flowers with powdered sugar or serve them with fruit and whipped cream. The result is an unusual but immensely fragrant dessert that will surprise even the biggest skeptics.

Interestingly, in some areas, kosmatice was served as a festive dish during May pilgrimages or to celebrate the summer solstice. “When the elderberry bloomed, we knew it was time to cook kosmatice. The scent that filled the kitchen was more for me than any dessert," recalls Mrs. Marie, who comes from a small village in Vysočina.

Recipe for Elderflower Syrup - A Natural Alternative to Sweetened Drinks

Besides fried flowers, elderflower has another irresistible use – homemade elderflower syrup, which retains the taste of spring all year round. It’s excellent with sparkling water as a natural lemonade, but it’s also suitable for teas, desserts, or cocktails.

Ingredients:

• 30–40 elderflowers
• 2 liters of water
• 2 lemons (preferably organic)
• 1.5 kg sugar
• 30 g citric acid

Instructions:

1. Carefully clean the flowers and place them in a large container.
2. Add sliced lemons and pour over with boiled and cooled water.
3. Let infuse, covered, in a cool place for 24 hours.
4. Strain through a cloth, add sugar and citric acid, heat and stir until everything dissolves.
5. Pour the syrup into sterilized bottles and store in a cool place.

The result is a gently floral syrup that refreshes even during the hottest summer. And what's more – you know exactly what you're drinking. No artificial aromas, preservatives, or colorings.

When and Where to Pick Elderflowers?

Although elderberry is found almost throughout the Czech Republic, it is important to be mindful of where you pick the flowers. Avoid areas near roads, factories, or chemically treated fields. Ideal is collecting in a quiet place, preferably early in the morning when the flowers are full of pollen. The elderflower should be fully open but not overripe – then they crumble easily and wilt quickly.

Kosmatice as an Ecological and Sustainable Choice

At a time when sustainability and ecology are being talked about more and more, kosmatice proves to be a perfect example of seasonal, plant-based, and local cuisine. They do not require the import of exotic ingredients or complicated preparation. Just go outside, open your eyes, and perceive what nature offers us. And that is the philosophy shared by Ferwer: a conscious lifestyle that honors natural cycles and supports both health and the planet.

Finally, it is worth mentioning that elderberry is not just a seasonal affair. After the flowers bloom, the period of black berries follows, from which jams, juices, or even wine can be made. But that is a chapter in itself.

Kosmatice – whether fried savory or sweet, or as the base of a fragrant homemade syrup – represents a return to simplicity and honesty. At a time when many of us are trying to slow down, find roots, and rediscover forgotten tastes, they are an ideal reminder that the best often grows right outside our windows.