Discover the Versatility of Lavender in Cooking

Lavender has so many uses in various foods. It fits perfectly in both savory and sweet dishes! Its unique flavor makes it a favorite in numerous recipes, from beverages to baked goods. To enjoy the delightful taste of lavender without the sugar-filled syrups, try making homemade lavender extract!

Start with the Right Cultivar

Not all lavender varieties taste good, even though all are edible. Choosing the right cultivar is crucial for your culinary adventures. English lavenders, also known as angustifolias or "true lavenders," stand out for their lower camphor content. This quality leads to a milder taste, making them ideal for cooking!

As part of the lavender culinary team for Lavender Northwest, these are my personal favorites: “Folgate,” “Pacific Blue,” and “New Zealand Blue.” Each variety offers a delicate flavor, perfect for culinary applications. For example, “New Zealand Blue” boasts a sweet aroma, making it wonderful for infusions in baked goods.

Harvest at the Right Stage

Timing is vital when harvesting lavender. For culinary use, the ideal time is when just the first row of buds has opened, and you notice bees landing on the lavender.

After harvesting, gather the stems into a small bundle. Using a rubber band, hang the bundle to dry. Recently, we've started using a freeze dryer to preserve the flavor and color of the lavender. If you have a freeze dryer, consider this method for your lavender! It's a game changer for lavender enthusiasts!

Prepare Your Lavender Extract

Once your lavender is fully dried, you can prepare the extract. First, remove the buds from the stems. You can easily do this by tapping the stems against a bowl or gently rolling them in your hands. Aim to collect enough buds to fill a canning jar about halfway.

Next, pour in a neutral alcohol like vodka until the lavender just barely covers it. Store this jar in a cool, dark place, like a pantry or cabinet. Let the mixture steep for 4-6 weeks, shaking the jar periodically. A longer steeping time can deepen the flavor intensity.

After the steeping period, strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve to remove the buds. What you get is your homemade lavender extract, ready to be bottled and used!

Use Your Lavender Extract

The beauty of homemade lavender extract lies in its versatility. Here are a few ideas to inspire you:

• Lavender Lattes: Add a few drops of the extract to your morning coffee for a delightful twist.

• Refreshing Lemonade: Mix lavender extract into your lemonade for an incredibly refreshing summer drink.

• Lavender Scones: Incorporate your extract into your scone recipe for a fun spin, and save a few lavender buds to decorate the top!

  
  

Feel free to experiment with flavors and discover what combinations you enjoy most! Adding a hint of lavender extract to your recipes can enhance flavors without overpowering them. Enjoy the creative journey that lavender brings to your kitchen!

Conclusion

Incorporating lavender into your cooking can transform ordinary dishes into extraordinary ones. With its unique flavor and aroma, lavender offers a range of possibilities for culinary experimentation. Whether you’re crafting delightful beverages or enhancing baked goods, lavender will surely impress your taste buds. Enjoy your lavender adventures today, and don’t hesitate to try new combinations and recipes!

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