Are you looking to add a touch of elegance and delicate floral aroma to your culinary creations? Look no further! This easy recipe for lavender simple syrup is perfect for elevating your cocktails, desserts, and even savory dishes. Homemade simple syrups are surprisingly quick and easy to make, offering a delicious alternative to store-bought options packed with artificial ingredients. This recipe provides a delightful way to infuse your food with the calming and fragrant essence of lavender. Let’s get started on this simple yet incredibly versatile recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup culinary lavender flowers (dried)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Lavender
Gently rinse the dried culinary lavender flowers under cool water to remove any dust or debris. Shake off excess water and set aside. Using culinary lavender is crucial; other types of lavender may have a bitter taste unsuitable for cooking.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In a small saucepan, combine the water and granulated sugar. Stir well over medium heat until the sugar is completely dissolved.
Step 3: Infuse with Lavender
Add the dried lavender flowers to the sugar syrup. Reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer gently for about 10-15 minutes, ensuring the mixture doesn't boil vigorously. This gentle simmer allows the lavender to infuse its beautiful aroma and flavor into the syrup.
Step 4: Strain and Cool
Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the syrup cool slightly. Strain the syrup through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth lined strainer into a clean glass jar or bottle. This removes the lavender flowers, leaving you with a smooth, fragrant syrup. Allow the syrup to cool completely before storing.
Step 5: Store and Enjoy!
Once cooled, tightly seal the jar and store your lavender simple syrup in the refrigerator. It should keep for about 2-3 weeks. This homemade simple syrup adds a unique and delightful touch to a variety of dishes, from cocktails like lavender lemonade to desserts like lavender macarons and even drizzled over pancakes or yogurt for a sophisticated twist.
Tips for the Best Lavender Simple Syrup:
- Use high-quality lavender: The flavor of your syrup heavily depends on the quality of the lavender you use. Opt for culinary-grade dried lavender flowers for the best results.
- Don't over-steep: Over-steeping can result in a bitter taste. Stick to the recommended simmering time.
- Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet syrup, reduce the amount of sugar slightly. Conversely, add more sugar for a richer, sweeter syrup.
- Experiment with variations: Get creative! Add other ingredients like lemon zest, vanilla bean, or even a touch of orange blossom water for unique flavor combinations.
Delicious Ways to Use Lavender Simple Syrup:
- Cocktails: Add a splash to your favorite cocktails like gin and tonics, mojitos, or margaritas for a sophisticated floral twist.
- Desserts: Drizzle over cakes, cupcakes, ice cream, or even use it to make lavender-infused whipped cream.
- Beverages: Sweeten iced tea, lemonade, or sparkling water with a touch of this delightful syrup.
- Savory Dishes: A surprising addition to vinaigrette dressings, it can add depth and complexity to salads and grilled vegetables.
Nutritional Information (per tablespoon):
This nutritional information is approximate and may vary slightly depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 40-50 calories
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-12 grams
- Sugar: Approximately 10-12 grams
Making your own lavender simple syrup is a rewarding experience, allowing you to control the ingredients and create a truly unique flavor. Enjoy the delightful aroma and taste of this versatile syrup in your culinary adventures!