Ingredients:
- 500g fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 400g granulated sugar
- 500ml water
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Optional: 1 tablespoon of rose water for added flavor (if desired)

Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine the sliced strawberries, sugar, and water.
2. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar has completely dissolved.
3. Once the sugar has dissolved, bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the strawberries have softened and the liquid has thickened slightly.
4. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the mixture cool for a few minutes.
5. Once cooled slightly, pour the mixture through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a clean bowl or jar, pressing down on the strawberries to extract as much liquid as possible.
6. Discard the strawberry pulp, and stir in the lemon juice (and rose water if using).
7. Let the cordial cool completely before transferring it to a sterilized bottle or jar.
8. Store the strawberry cordial in the refrigerator. It should keep for about 2-3 weeks.

To serve, simply mix the strawberry cordial with sparkling water, tonic water, or lemonade for a refreshing drink. You can also use it as a flavoring in cocktails or drizzle it over desserts like ice cream or cake. Enjoy your homemade strawberry cordial!