Lavender is a versatile herb known for its captivating aroma and myriad of uses. From perfumes to essential oils, lavender has been a beloved ingredient for centuries. Apart from its aromatic qualities, lavender also offers unique flavors that can enhance various dishes. This blog post will explore three delightful recipes incorporating lavender, so get ready to infuse your culinary creations with the fragrant aroma and taste of lavender!
Recipe 1: Lavender Honey Butter
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon culinary lavender buds
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a spice grinder or mortar and pestle, finely grind the lavender buds until they reach a powder-like consistency.
2. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the softened butter, ground lavender buds, honey, and a pinch of salt. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
3. Transfer the lavender honey butter to a jar or airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
4. Serve the lavender honey butter on warm bread, scones, or use it to elevate your favorite baked goods. Enjoy the delightful combination of floral lavender notes and the natural sweetness of honey.
Recipe 2: Lavender Lemonade
Ingredients:
– 4 cups water
– 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons culinary lavender buds
– Lemon slices and fresh lavender sprigs (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. In a saucepan, combine the water, granulated sugar, and culinary lavender buds. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar has completely dissolved.
2. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the lavender-infused syrup cool for about 10 minutes.
3. Strain the lavender buds from the syrup using a fine-mesh sieve, discarding the solids.
4. In a pitcher, combine the lavender-infused syrup and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Stir well.
5. Fill glasses with ice cubes and pour the lavender lemonade over the ice. Garnish with lemon slices and fresh lavender sprigs.
6. Sip and savor the refreshing taste of lavender-infused lemonade, perfectly balanced with a citrusy zing.
Recipe 3: Lavender Roasted Chicken
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (approximately 4 pounds)
– 2 tablespoons culinary lavender buds
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, combine the culinary lavender buds, minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to create a fragrant lavender marinade.
3. Place the whole chicken in a roasting pan. Using your hands or a brush, evenly coat the chicken with the lavender marinade on the outside and inside the cavity.
4. Roast the chicken in the preheated oven basting every 15 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin turns golden brown.
5. Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before carving.
6. Serve the lavender roasted chicken with your favorite side dishes.
The tender and juicy chicken infused with the aromatic flavors of lavender will impress your guests and elevate your dinner table.
