With its delicate floral notes and subtle hints of sweetness, lavender adds depth and complexity to a wide range of dishes, both savoury and sweet.
In this blog post, we'll explore how to use edible lavender to enhance your cooking and baking adventures.
Understanding Edible Lavender:
Lavender is a flowering plant belonging to the mint family, known for its vibrant purple flowers and distinctive fragrance.
Not all lavender varieties are edible, so it's essential to use culinary lavender specifically labeled as such to ensure safety and flavor.
Edible lavender is prized for its aromatic qualities, which can vary depending on the variety and growing conditions.
Culinary Uses of Edible Lavender:
Infusions: One of the simplest ways to incorporate lavender into your cooking is by infusing it into liquids such as syrups, sauces, or teas. Simply steep dried lavender buds in hot liquid for a few minutes to release their flavor.
Seasoning: Crushed or ground lavender buds can be used as a seasoning to add a subtle floral flavour to dishes like roasted vegetables, grilled meats, or even homemade popcorn.
Baking: Lavender pairs beautifully with baked goods, adding a unique floral aroma and flavor. Use it sparingly in recipes for cookies, cakes, scones, or shortbread for a delightful twist.
Beverages: Lavender-infused cocktails, lemonades, or mocktails are refreshing options for incorporating this fragrant herb into your drinks.
Tips for Using Edible Lavender:
Start with a small amount: Lavender has a potent flavor, so it's best to start with a small quantity and adjust to taste.
Use culinary-grade lavender: Ensure that you're using lavender specifically labelled for culinary use to avoid any potential pesticides or contaminants.
Balance flavors: Lavender pairs well with citrus, berries, honey, and other floral ingredients. Experiment with different flavor combinations to find what works best for your palate.
Avoid overuse: While lavender adds a lovely aroma and flavour, too much can overwhelm the dish. Use it judiciously to complement other ingredients rather than overpowering them.
Recipes Featuring Edible Lavender:
Lavender Honey Glazed Salmon: A simple yet elegant dish featuring pan-seared salmon fillets glazed with a mixture of honey, lemon juice, and culinary lavender.
Lavender Lemon Shortbread Cookies: Butter-rich shortbread cookies infused with fragrant lavender and brightened with lemon zest for a delightful treat.
Lavender Berry Sorbet: A refreshing summer dessert made with ripe mixed berries, lavender-infused syrup, and a splash of lemon juice.
Conclusion:
Edible lavender is a versatile herb that adds a unique floral dimension to a variety of dishes. Whether you're infusing it into liquids, seasoning savory dishes, or incorporating it into baked goods, lavender can elevate your culinary creations with its delicate fragrance and flavour. With a bit of experimentation and creativity, you can discover new and exciting ways to incorporate this aromatic herb into your cooking and baking repertoire.