Lavender syrup—it’s like bottling a piece of a summer garden, you know? Sweet, floral, and just a bit mysterious, it’s perfect for those lazy afternoons when the world feels both incredibly vast and intimately small. I remember last July, amidst a heatwave (when who knew we’d be longing for those days in October?), this syrup turned the simplest iced tea into a fragrant escape.
Steps
- In a saucepan, combine 3 tablespoons of lavender buds with 1 cup of water and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, add 1 cup of sugar.
- Reduce the heat to maintain a gentle boil, stirring continuously until the sugar completely dissolves.
- Lower the heat to a simmer and let it cook for 15 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Turn off the heat and allow the lavender to steep as the syrup cools. Taste the syrup after 15 minutes; strain out the lavender buds if the flavor is to your liking, or let it steep longer for a stronger taste, typically 20-30 minutes works well.
- Once the desired flavor is achieved, strain the syrup to remove the lavender buds, and store the syrup in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 weeks.
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons lavender buds
- 1 cup granulated sugar (or substitute with coconut sugar)
- 1 cup water
Nutritional Values
Calories: 800kcal | Carbohydrates: 208g | Protein: 0.24g | Fat: 0.8g | Sodium: 8mg | Potassium: 2.4mg | Sugar: 192g | Vitamin A: 64IU | Vitamin C: 2.4mg | Calcium: 56mg | Iron: 0.8mg
FAQ
- What type of lavender is best for making simple syrup?
- Lavender syrup can be crafted using either fresh or dried lavender buds. It’s important to select culinary-grade lavender. If opting for fresh lavender, choose buds that are fully purple but not yet opened to ensure optimal flavor.
- What is the basic ratio for making simple syrup?
- Simple syrups typically use a ratio of either 1:1 or 1:2 of water to sugar. A 1:1 ratio is often preferred for coffee and tea, while a 1:2 ratio is favored by bartenders for cocktails as it adds less water to the drink.
- How should I store lavender simple syrup, and how long does it last?
- Store lavender simple syrup in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should remain fresh for 2-3 weeks.
- What are some ways to use lavender simple syrup?
- Lavender simple syrup can enhance a variety of beverages such as lattes, Earl Grey tea, lemonade, cocktails, and even baked goods like buttercream frosting or lemon zucchini bread.
- Can I substitute vanilla syrup for lavender syrup in recipes?
- Yes, vanilla syrup can be substituted for lavender syrup in recipes, and they can also be used together for a complementary flavor profile.
Tips
- When making lavender simple syrup, consider using a 1:1 water-to-sugar ratio for a versatile syrup that blends well in hot and cold drinks, allowing for easy sweetness adjustment.
- For a more intense lavender flavor, let the lavender buds steep in the syrup for 20-30 minutes after turning off the heat, adjusting the steeping time according to your taste preference.
- If using fresh lavender, choose buds that are vivid purple but not yet opened to ensure optimal flavor and aroma in your syrup.
- Store your lavender simple syrup in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness, and use it within 2-3 weeks for best results.
Equipment
- Culinary Grade Lavender Buds – Essential for making the syrup and may need to be purchased if you don’t have any at home.
- Glass Oil Bottle or Glass Jar – For storing the finished syrup. Look for airtight options to keep the syrup fresh.
- Fine Mesh Strainer or Cheesecloth – To strain out the lavender buds from the syrup.
