Lavender, with its distinctive aroma and subtle floral notes, is a versatile ingredient that can transform ordinary dishes into extraordinary culinary experiences.
Though often merely associated with fragrances and potpourri, lavender’s culinary potential is vast, especially when used in moderation. Here’s how you can begin your culinary journey with this delightful herb.
Understanding Lavender Varieties
Before you start cooking with lavender, it's essential to choose the right variety. Culinary lavender, also known as Lavandula angustifolia or English lavender, is the best option for cooking. Avoid ornamental lavenders, as they can have a strong, camphor-like flavour that’s unsuitable for culinary use.
Preparing Lavender for Cooking
Lavender can be used both fresh and dried, but dried lavender is more commonly used in cooking. Here’s how to prepare it:
Drying Lavender: If you have fresh lavender, hang it upside down in a cool, dark place for about two weeks until it's completely dry. Once dried, remove the flowers from the stems and store them in an airtight container.
Grinding Lavender: For most recipes, you’ll need ground lavender. Use a mortar and pestle or a spice grinder to achieve a fine texture. This helps to evenly distribute the flavour throughout your dish.
Using Lavender in Cooking
Lavender’s strong flavour means a little goes a long way. Start with small amounts and gradually adjust to taste. Here are some tips and simple recipes to get you started:
1. Lavender Sugar
Lavender sugar is a versatile ingredient that can be used in baking and beverages.
Ingredients:
200 grams of granulated sugar
1 tablespoon of dried lavender flowers
Method:
Combine the sugar and lavender flowers in a food processor.
Pulse until the lavender is finely ground and mixed well with the sugar.
Store in an airtight container and use it to sweeten tea, sprinkle on biscuits, or add to cake batters.
2. Lavender-Infused Honey
This fragrant honey can elevate your morning toast or be used in various desserts.
Ingredients:
250 grams of honey
2 teaspoons of dried lavender flowers
Method:
In a small saucepan, gently heat the honey until it’s warm but not boiling.
Stir in the lavender flowers and remove from heat.
Let it sit for at least 30 minutes to infuse, then strain out the lavender.
Store the infused honey in a jar and use as desired.
3. Lavender Shortbread Biscuits
These buttery biscuits are perfect for an afternoon tea.
Ingredients:
225 grams of unsalted butter, softened
100 grams of caster sugar
300 grams of plain flour
1 tablespoon of dried lavender flowers
Method:
Preheat your oven to 160°C (140°C fan) or Gas Mark 3.
Cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
Gradually add the flour and lavender, mixing until a dough forms.
Roll out the dough to about 1 cm thick and cut into shapes.
Place the biscuits on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
Bake for 15-20 minutes until lightly golden. Allow to cool on a wire rack.honey,sugar,
4) Lavender Scones Recipe (My wife's lavender scones are absolutely delicious!)
Ingredients:
225g self-raising flour
55g butter (cold, diced)
25g caster sugar
150ml milk
2 tsp dried culinary lavender
A pinch of salt
1 egg (beaten, for glazing)
Method:
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 220°C (200°C fan) or Gas Mark 7.
Prepare the Baking Tray:
Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the self-raising flour, salt, and dried culinary lavender. Mix well.
Add the Butter:
Add the diced butter to the dry ingredients. Using your fingertips, rub the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles fine breadcrumbs.
Add the Sugar:
Stir in the caster sugar.
Add the Milk:
Make a well in the centre of the mixture and gradually add the milk, mixing with a knife until you have a soft dough. You may not need all the milk.
Knead the Dough:
Lightly flour a surface and gently knead the dough until it is smooth. Do not over-knead.
Shape the Scones:
Roll out the dough to about 2.5cm thick. Using a 5cm round cutter, cut out the scones and place them on the prepared baking tray. Re-roll any remaining dough and repeat.
Glaze the Scones:
Brush the tops of the scones with the beaten egg to give them a golden finish.
Bake:
Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the scones are well-risen and golden brown.
Cool:
Remove the scones from the oven and transfer them to a wire rack to cool slightly.
Serving Suggestion:
Serve warm with butter, clotted cream and a dollop of your favourite jam. Enjoy your lavender scones with a cup of tea!
Scone Hints:
Ensure your butter is cold before rubbing it into the flour to achieve the best texture.
Avoid over-kneading the dough to keep the scones light and fluffy.
If you don't have a round cutter, you can shape the scones with your hands.
Enjoy your delightful lavender scones!
Tips for Cooking with Lavender
Pairing Flavours: Lavender pairs well with other herbs such as rosemary, thyme, and mint. It also complements citrus fruits, berries, and honey.
Experimentation: Don’t be afraid to experiment with lavender in savoury dishes. It can add a unique twist to roasted meats, soups, stews, sauces, and salads.
Moderation: Always use lavender sparingly. Its potent flavour can easily overpower a dish if too much is used.
Conclusion
Cooking with lavender can be a delightful way to add a touch of elegance and a unique flavour to your dishes. By starting with simple recipes and gradually incorporating it into your cooking repertoire, you’ll soon discover the many ways this aromatic herb can enhance your culinary creations. Happy cooking!
