Using Lavender in Cooking: Tips and Recipes

Understanding Culinary Lavender

Not all lavender is created equal. Culinary lavender typically refers to Lavandula angustifolia, also known as English lavender or True lavender. This variety boasts a sweeter, more palatable flavor compared to other, more pungent species.

It’s crucial to use culinary-grade lavender, ensuring it is free from pesticides and safe for consumption. Avoid using lavender from florists or garden centers unless specifically labeled as culinary-grade.

Essential Tips for Cooking with Lavender

Incorporating lavender into your recipes requires a delicate touch. Here are some key tips to ensure success:

• Start Small: Lavender’s flavor can be potent. Begin with a small amount, such as 1/2 teaspoon of dried lavender flowers per batch, and adjust to taste.
• Pair Wisely: Lavender complements a variety of flavors, including citrus, berries, chocolate, honey, and herbs like rosemary and thyme.
• Use Sparingly in Savory Dishes: A subtle hint of lavender can enhance savory dishes, but too much can overpower other flavors.
• Consider the Form: Dried lavender flowers are commonly used, but lavender extract or lavender-infused sugar can also be incorporated.
• Infuse, Don’t Just Add: Infusing lavender into liquids like milk, cream, or oil allows the flavor to meld beautifully.
• Grind for Even Distribution: Grinding dried lavender flowers before adding them to a recipe helps to distribute the flavor more evenly. A mortar and pestle works well for this.

Lavender Flavor Profiles and Pairings

Lavender’s flavor profile is complex, offering floral, sweet, and slightly herbaceous notes. Understanding its flavor nuances helps in creating harmonious pairings.

Consider these pairings:

• Citrus: Lavender and lemon, orange, or grapefruit create a refreshing and aromatic combination, ideal for cakes, cookies, and beverages.
• Berries: Lavender complements the sweetness of berries like blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries, enhancing jams, pies, and muffins.
• Chocolate: Lavender adds a unique floral depth to chocolate desserts, creating a sophisticated and intriguing flavor profile.
• Honey: Lavender-infused honey is a delicious addition to tea, yogurt, or toast, offering a delicate floral sweetness.
• Rosemary and Thyme: In savory dishes, lavender pairs well with rosemary and thyme, adding a subtle floral note to roasted meats, vegetables, and sauces.

Lavender Recipes to Try

Lavender Lemonade

A refreshing and aromatic beverage, perfect for a warm day.

Ingredients:

• 6 cups water
• 1 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup dried culinary lavender flowers
• 1 cup lemon juice

Instructions:

1. In a saucepan, combine water, sugar, and lavender flowers. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
2. Remove from heat and let steep for 30 minutes.
3. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove the lavender flowers.
4. Stir in lemon juice.
5. Refrigerate until chilled. Serve over ice.

Lavender Shortbread Cookies

Delicate and buttery cookies with a subtle floral aroma.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon dried culinary lavender flowers, finely ground
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, ground lavender flowers, and salt.
3. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
4. Form the dough into a log, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 30 minutes.
5. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
6. Slice the dough into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
7. Place the cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
9. Let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Lavender Roasted Chicken

A savory dish with a subtle floral aroma that elevates the classic roasted chicken.

Ingredients:

• 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 pounds)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon dried culinary lavender flowers
• 1 tablespoon dried rosemary
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 lemon, quartered
• 4 cloves garlic, minced

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, combine olive oil, lavender flowers, rosemary, salt, pepper, and minced garlic.
3. Rub the mixture all over the chicken, including under the skin.
4. Place the lemon quarters inside the chicken cavity.
5. Place the chicken in a roasting pan.
6. Roast for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let rest for 10 minutes before carving and serving.

Storing Lavender

Proper storage is essential to maintain the quality and aroma of lavender. Store dried lavender flowers in an airtight container in a cool, dark, and dry place. This will help preserve their flavor and fragrance for up to a year.

Where to Buy Culinary Lavender

Culinary lavender can be found at specialty spice shops, health food stores, and online retailers. Ensure that the lavender is specifically labeled as culinary-grade to guarantee its safety and suitability for cooking.

Experimenting with Lavender

Don’t be afraid to experiment with lavender in your own recipes. Start with small amounts and adjust to your taste. With a little practice, you’ll discover the many ways that lavender can enhance your culinary creations.

Conclusion

Using lavender in cooking opens a world of exciting flavor possibilities. With its unique floral aroma and subtle sweetness, lavender can transform ordinary dishes into extraordinary culinary experiences. Embrace the tips and recipes provided, and embark on a journey of lavender-infused delights.

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions