Apricot and thyme soda, by Madalene Bonvini-Hamel

(Serves six)

ingredients
450g ripe apricots, washed and stoned
250g caster sugar
250ml cold water
Juice and zest of one lemon
3 large sprigs of thyme, plus extra for serving
Chilled sparkling mineral water

Method
Place the apricots, caster sugar, cold water, lemon juice and zest, and thyme sprigs in a vacuum pouch, and seal on hard vacuum. Place the bag in a preheated water bath at 82°C for 45 minutes, allow to cool over ice and leave in the fridge for 48 hours.

Pass the juice through a fine sieve or muslin cloth, pour it into a clean container and keep refrigerated until needed. (You can use the apricot pieces for another recipe.)

To serve, dilute the cordial to taste with chilled sparkling water, add plenty of ice cubes and extra crushed thyme.